Instead of limiting inmates to telephone calls with relatives, Circular 82/2026 issued by Vietnam's Ministry of National Defence introduces a new option allowing communication through both video and audio via the ministry's dedicated information system.

Circular 82/2026/TT-BQP, issued by the Ministry of National Defence and taking effect on July 1, 2026, provides detailed regulations on inmate visits, gift receipt and communications at detention facilities operated by the Vietnam People's Army.

The new circular replaces Circular 182/2019/TT-BQP, issued on December 4, 2019, which governed inmate visits, correspondence, receipt of gifts and telephone communication with relatives.

According to Dr. Dang Van Cuong, a lawyer, the new circular introduces several notable changes, particularly provisions that reflect advances in science and technology. The new rules are expected to reduce the time and cost associated with prison visits, improve inmates' meal allowances, gradually enhance their material and mental well-being, and encourage rehabilitation so they can successfully reintegrate into society.

Among the most significant additions is the introduction of video calls. The new option enables family members to communicate directly with inmates without having to travel long distances for in-person visits.

Dr. Dang Van Cuong said using electronic devices that combine audio and video capabilities is an effective application of technological advances, meeting current social and economic development needs. Such conversations provide valuable emotional support for both inmates and their families, strengthening inmates' motivation to reform, nurturing their determination to rebuild their lives and facilitating their eventual return to the community.

While Circular 182/2019 only permitted telephone communication between inmates and their relatives, Circular 82/2026 adds audio and video communication through the dedicated information system managed by the Ministry of National Defence.

Under the new rules, each inmate may make up to one video call per month, with each call lasting no more than 10 minutes. The long-awaited provision is expected to be implemented in the near future.

To ensure proper oversight and prevent potential abuse, Circular 82 sets out detailed requirements. Inmates must register their contact information in advance. Correctional officers will supervise the entire communication process. Family members must verify their identities before joining a video call, and calls may be terminated if the conversation violates detention facility regulations.

Longer private visits for well-behaved inmates

Circular 82 also maintains the provision allowing inmates to meet privately with their spouse in designated family visitation rooms. Although this policy is not new, the circular extends the permitted meeting time, helping married couples maintain family bonds while giving inmates greater hope and motivation to rehabilitate and reintegrate into society.

The new regulations specify that inmates classified as having a "good" or higher record of serving their sentence may qualify for extended private visits with their spouse. Each visit may last up to three hours.

The circular also introduces several additional provisions. Beyond their regular communication entitlement, inmates may receive extra opportunities to contact relatives as a reward for good performance or in cases of natural disasters, disease outbreaks or other emergency situations.

Easier procedures for inmate deposits

Circular 82 dedicates an entire chapter to regulating the management of inmates' cash, foreign currencies, gold, valuables and other assets. It also covers the transfer of inmate deposits when prisoners are moved to another facility, procedures for handling money and property after an inmate's death, and permitted forms of material support between inmates.

According to Dr. Dang Van Cuong, these provisions are more comprehensive and detailed than those contained in Circular 182/2019. Previously, it was often difficult for inmates' relatives to visit, deliver personal items, send gifts or deposit money, with some families travelling more than 100 kilometres simply to complete these tasks.

Under the new regulations, however, relatives will find the process much more convenient, as they can transfer money to inmates through postal services or banks.

Dr. Cuong said Vietnam's criminal justice and sentence enforcement policies have consistently reflected humanitarian principles, emphasising rehabilitation and crime prevention. As the country's socio-economic development continues, the material and spiritual well-being of inmates is also expected to improve alongside broader social progress.

T. Nhung