National Day in Vietnam

A national holiday with a two-day leave rule

Article 112 of Vietnam’s 2019 Labour Code gives employees two paid days off for National Day: September 2 and one adjoining day, either before or after it. If a holiday falls on an employee’s regular weekly rest day, the Code provides a compensatory rest day on the next working day.[1]

The law sets an entitlement for employees; it does not establish that every business or service must close. Government office appointments, bank branches, shops, attractions and transport may follow different schedules, so visitors should check with the particular provider before making plans. The specific annual arrangement for the adjoining day can also affect how long people are away from work.[1]

The declaration behind September 2

On September 2, 1945, Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi and announced the formation of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The declaration affirmed national sovereignty and the right of the Vietnamese people to independence and freedom.[2]

The event followed the August Revolution and the end of the monarchy. Emperor Bao Dai abdicated on August 30, 1945, followed by the declaration at Ba Dinh Square two days later.[3]

Commemorations in public life

National Day is marked in Hanoi with public decorations, including flags, banners and slogans.[2]

Commemorations can also include exhibitions about the declaration and the founding of the republic. The Vietnam National History Museum held a themed exhibition called “Independence Day, September 2” in 2020, presenting photographs, documents and objects connected with the 1945 event.[3]

Planning around the holiday

For workers, the clearest practical effect is the statutory paid leave, including the adjoining day established by the Labour Code. Because service schedules are not set by that leave rule, travelers should confirm opening hours and transport arrangements directly with providers.[1]