Procedures for freelance workers to purchase social housing
Many freelance workers who do multiple part-time jobs and earn less than VND 150 million per year still find it difficult to obtain income verification when applying to purchase social housing.
In practice, many freelance workers face difficulties when trying to access social housing policies because they do not know which authority can certify their income. This group often has no formal labor contracts or fixed payroll, making it challenging to prove their income eligibility.
According to the 2023 Housing Law, “low-income individuals in urban areas” are among the groups eligible for social housing support. Therefore, in principle, freelance workers who meet the income criteria are still eligible for consideration.
On February 9, 2026, the Government issued Decree No. 54, which took effect immediately upon signing, amending and supplementing several regulations related to housing and real estate business. The decree clarifies the verification mechanism for individuals who do not have labor contracts.
Accordingly, people classified as low-income urban residents who do not sign labor contracts must submit a request for income verification. Within seven days of receiving the request, the commune-level police are responsible for confirming personal information such as full name, date of birth, gender, personal identification number, ID issuance date, and place of residence.
Applicants must self-declare and commit to their average monthly income. When necessary, commune-level police will coordinate with relevant authorities to check and verify the declared information.
Notably, the application for income verification also serves as documentation proving eligibility for social housing support policies.
To ensure consistent implementation, the Ministry of Construction issued Circular No. 08/2026 on February 15, 2026. In Form No. 05 attached to the circular, authorities provide detailed guidance on documents required to prove eligibility and income for individuals without labor contracts and those not receiving pensions paid by the social insurance agency.
Thus, under current regulations, the verification of low-income status for social housing buyers, including freelance workers, is carried out by commune-level police following a standardized procedure and form.
Hai Phong News