Tens of Thousands of Young Vietnamese Begin Military Service in Nationwide Conscription Drive

Across Vietnam this week, tens of thousands of young people are reporting for mandatory military service, marking the start of the country’s 2026 conscription cycle.

From major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to smaller provinces in the north and central regions, local authorities have held ceremonies sending new recruits off to the armed forces and the national police.

The nationwide recruitment process runs from March 4 to March 6, with different military zones conducting enlistment ceremonies on separate days.

A Key Part of Vietnam’s National Defense System

Vietnam maintains mandatory military service for men, with most recruits serving two years in the armed forces.

The annual intake supports the country’s large defense structure, which includes:

• The Vietnam People’s Army

• The Border Guard

• The Navy

• The Coast Guard

• Specialized units such as communications and special forces

In addition to the military, a portion of recruits are assigned to People’s Public Security units, which operate under the Ministry of Public Security.

Large Recruitment Numbers in Major Cities

Major urban centers contribute some of the largest numbers of recruits.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest city and economic hub, is sending 9,105 young people into service this year — the highest figure nationwide.

Of these:

• 7,300 recruits will serve in the military

• 1,805 recruits will join the national police

Officials say nearly 28.5% of recruits in the city hold college or vocational degrees, reflecting a growing number of educated young people entering service.

Hanoi Sends Over 4,700 Recruits

The capital Hanoi is sending 4,721 recruits into service in 2026.

Notably:

• Nearly 60% volunteered for service

• Around 30% have university or college education

• More than 160 recruits are Communist Party members

Local officials emphasized discipline, training, and the long-standing tradition of the “Bo Doi Cu Ho”—a term referring to soldiers who follow the legacy of Ho Chi Minh-era revolutionary troops.

Provinces Also Mobilize Thousands

Other provinces are also sending large numbers of recruits.

Examples include:

• Ninh Binh Province: more than 6,000 recruits

• Hung Yen Province: about 5,300 recruits

• Cao Bang Province: more than 1,000 recruits

Many provinces reported strong recruitment quality, with a majority of recruits classified in top physical health categories.

Who Must Serve?

Under Vietnam’s current Law on Military Service:

• Men aged 18–25 are required to serve

• Those who defer service for university studies may be called up until age 27

• Women may volunteer if they possess specialized skills required by the military

Standard service lasts 24 months, though the Ministry of National Defense may extend it by up to six additional months during special circumstances.

Training, Benefits, and Post-Service Support

During their service, recruits undergo:

• Military and tactical training

• Political education

• Disaster response and rescue training

• Missions related to national defense and territorial protection

They also receive:

• Military allowances

• Housing, uniforms, and meals

• Healthcare and insurance coverage

After completing service, veterans may receive vocational training support, job placement assistance, and preferential points when applying for government jobs.

A Tradition Blending Service and Ceremony

Across Vietnam, enlistment ceremonies often carry a strong emotional element. Families, local officials, and community members gather to send off recruits with flowers, speeches, and national flags, reflecting the cultural importance placed on military service.

For many young Vietnamese, the two-year commitment remains both a civic duty and a rite of passage before returning to civilian life.