Parents in Vietnam could be fined up to S$497 for making children study 'excessively'

Parents in Vietnam could face fines for making their children or other family members study "excessively".

The new decree by the Vietnam government could see parents face fines of 5 million to 10 million Vietnamese dong (S$248 to S$497), according to VnExpress International.

This would be the first time Vietnam punishes individuals for "forcing a family member to overstudy".

The decree, which takes effect on Dec. 15, 2025, stipulates that offenders must issue a formal apology to the affected person if requested, either directly or publicly through the media.

It also outlined other situations that cause psychological stress or harm to a family member, which could result in fines as well.

Domestic violence complaints

The unusual fine comes as hundreds of thousands of domestic violence cases are reported in Vietnam each year.

In 2023, there were more than 3,100 complaints of domestic violence, the most common being physical and psychological.

This was followed by economic and sexual violence.

According to the Vietnam's Supreme People’s Court, between July 2023 and April 2025, more than 405,000 domestic violence cases were brought to trial.

Some 342,000 divorce cases were linked to domestic violence.

Under the same regulation, individuals who prevent family members from meeting relatives, discriminate against them based on gender, appearance, or ability, or insult their dignity could face similar fines of 5 million dong (S$248) to 10 million dong (S$497).

Other offences

Other crimes would similarly result in monetary punishments.

According to Lao Dong, failing to provide education to children in the family, or care for pregnant women, mothers with children under the age of three, people with disabilities, or seniors, could result in fines of 10 million dong (S$497) to 20 million dong (S$993).

Those who cause their family members psychological distress by forcing them to witness acts of violence against other people or animals, or listen to, watch or read violent or pornographic content, could also face fines of 10 million dong (S$497) to 20 million dong (S$993), VnExpress International reported.

Beyond that, those who economically abuse their family members, such as forcing them to overwork or contribute financially beyond their means, or control their assets or income to make them dependent on them, could be fined between 20 million dong (S$993) and 30 million dong (S$1,490).

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