Under the proposal, the city plans to broaden eligibility for social housing support beyond current groups covered by existing regulations.

The expanded list would include workers in science and technology, digital professionals, experts and scientists working in priority industries such as the digital economy, green economy, innovation, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, biotechnology and other key sectors.

Individuals directly involved in major programs, projects and works considered important to the capital’s socio-economic development would also qualify for support.

In addition, Hanoi is considering housing assistance for individuals who make significant contributions to science, technology, innovation, digital transformation and the city’s broader economic and social development.

The draft states that eligible beneficiaries must comply with current housing regulations and meet criteria regarding the distance between their residence and workplace, based on transportation conditions, urban infrastructure accessibility and labor requirements determined by the Hanoi People’s Committee.

Notably, the city proposes applying income thresholds higher than standard social housing regulations in an effort to attract and retain highly qualified talent.

Recipients would also be required to commit to working and contributing to Hanoi for at least five years.

Those who violate the commitment could be required to repay incentives or return allocated housing.

Under the proposal, eligible individuals may buy, lease-purchase or rent social housing units.

Hanoi also plans to prioritize rental social housing for experts, scientists, high-tech workers and digital professionals employed on fixed-term contracts.

The draft further encourages the development of long-term rental social housing, specialist accommodation and residences for science and technology personnel within high-tech zones, innovation hubs, research and development centers, industrial parks and university areas.

Rental support, villas and apartments for long-term contributors

Beyond social housing policies, Hanoi is also proposing a separate support mechanism specifically targeting high-quality human resources.

Under the draft, individuals recruited or contracted under the city’s talent attraction programs and committed to working for at least five years could receive housing rental support during their employment period.

More generous incentives are proposed for those committing to longer service terms.

Individuals pledging to work from five to under 10 years could receive free apartment units or discounts of up to 50% on the purchase of villas or townhouses.

Those committing to work for 10 years or more could be granted housing outright, including villas, townhouses or apartment units.

For official-duty housing, the draft specifies that beneficiaries must have decisions related to reassignment, rotation, secondment or official work placement, while not owning a home in Hanoi or living far from their workplace.

Official-duty housing would only be available for rent during the beneficiary’s term of office or assignment period and could not be sold, subleased or lent under any circumstances.

The proposal also includes credit support mechanisms for buyers and lease-purchasers through preferential loans with interest rates below market levels or partial subsidies on commercial loan interest.

Funding for these support programs would come from the city budget or entrusted capital managed through the Hanoi Development Investment Fund.

Thanh Hue