The decision, issued by Party General Secretary and State President To Lam on April 7, was made public at a press conference jointly held by the Presidential Office, the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Supreme People’s Court.

The 2026 amnesty is issued on the occasion of the 51st anniversary of Southern Liberation and National Reunification Day (April 30), and in celebration of key national milestones, including the successful organisation of the 13th National Party Congress and the election of deputies to the 16th National Assembly and local People’s Councils for the 2026–2031 term.

Speaking at the press briefing, Can Dinh Tai, deputy head of the Presidential Office, emphasised that the amnesty policy reflects a consistent and long-standing approach of the Vietnamese Party and State, combining strict enforcement of the law with humanitarian principles.

He noted that past amnesties have been implemented “in a strict, transparent and lawful manner,” delivering positive political, legal, social and external relations outcomes, while strengthening public trust and receiving recognition from the international community.

According to official data, more than 22,000 inmates were granted amnesty in 2025, with national security and public order being firmly maintained. Most beneficiaries have successfully reintegrated into society, demonstrating the practical effectiveness of the policy.

Under this year’s Decision 457, those eligible for consideration include prisoners serving fixed-term sentences, individuals whose life sentences have been commuted to fixed-term imprisonment, and those temporarily suspended from serving prison sentences. Eligibility is subject to strict criteria, including demonstrated rehabilitation progress, good conduct, and classification as “good” or higher under Vietnam’s criminal enforcement regulations.

Clarifying new provisions in the 2026 decision, Lieutenant General Le Van Tuyen, Deputy Minister of Public Security, stated that the updated framework aims to ensure greater clarity and consistency in implementation. Notably, the decision introduces the term “at least” in relation to the minimum period of good conduct required for eligibility, thereby standardising interpretation across institutions.

It also expands and specifies categories of inmates not eligible for amnesty, particularly those with prior convictions for intentional crimes, repeat offenders, or individuals convicted of serious offenses.

“These additions are intended to clearly define ineligible cases and ensure uniform application nationwide,” he said.

Officials also highlighted that the issuance of the amnesty decision on the first working day of the 2026–2031 presidential term underscores Vietnam’s policy continuity. It reflects a consistent commitment to upholding the rule of law while implementing humanitarian policies responsibly, aligned with the objectives of maintaining social order and promoting sustainable development.

Regarding post-release reintegration, Lieut. Gen. Tuyen noted that the government’s credit support programme for former inmates, implemented under the 2023 Decision, has delivered encouraging results. To date, nearly 15,000 beneficiaries have accessed loans totaling approximately VND1.3 trillion (around US$52 million) to support livelihoods and economic reintegration. He described the programme as “a highly humane policy” and indicated that authorities are considering adjustments to expand access and increase loan limits in the future.

The 2026 amnesty decision, officials said, carries not only legal significance but also broader political and social meaning, reinforcing Vietnam’s commitment to upholding the rule of law while pursuing a humane and responsible approach to justice.

Vietnam Party chief To Lam elected State President for 2026–2031 term

VOV.VN - The National Assembly of Vietnam on April 7 elected To Lam, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, as State President for the 2026–2031 term, with unanimous approval at a plenary session in Hanoi.