Hanoi steps up efforts to adopt non-cash payment mechanism in parking lots

Hanoi has issued temporary regulations to implement technological solutions for cashless parking service search and payment in the city.

A non-cash payment parking lot in Hanoi. Photo: The Hanoi Times

The temporary regulation outlines the use of technological solutions for searching and making cashless payments for parking services in Hanoi.

This applies to existing parking lots, those under construction, temporary car parks in vacant areas or delayed projects (with land designated for parking), and temporary roadside or sidewalk parking. It also covers parking facilities in residential complexes, commercial centers, mixed-use buildings (residential, commercial, office), hospitals, and educational institutions.

Under the new regulation, parking operators must implement technology for locating and paying for parking, ensuring that transactions are cashless and that electronic receipts are issued and linked to the tax authorities.

The authorities will, therefore, not renew licenses for organizations or individuals who do not adopt these technological solutions. Additionally, new permits for temporary use of roads or sidewalks will not be granted to those who do not have a plan for cashless payment solutions.

To support this transition, the city has tasked the Office of the Hanoi People's Committee with developing a feature on the iHanoi platform to help residents and businesses quickly find available parking spots.

The office will work with the Departments of Information and Communication and Transport to promote the use of smart technology for parking services.

In addition, the Department of Transport will oversee the implementation of these technological solutions, and will also carry out parking inspections and enforcement throughout the city.

Starting April 15, Hanoi launched a four-month cashless parking pilot program. As of now, 99 car parks across the city have adopted this cashless payment solution.

The distribution of these carparks is as follows: Hoan Kiem (49 spots), Cau Giay (11 spots), Nam Tu Liem (10 spots), Dong Da (9 spots), Tay Ho (8 spots), Hai Ba Trung (6 spots), Bac Tu Liem (4 spots), and Ba Dinh (2 spots).

According to Tran Huu Bao, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Transport, the pilot program is running smoothly. Most residents support it, as it reduces corruption, ensures correct pricing, provides transparency, and improves service quality. This initiative is also part of Hanoi's broader goal of developing a smart city by 2025, with a vision for 2030.

“Cashless parking payment enhances the management of parking facilities, ensures traffic order and safety, improves urban aesthetics, and reduces traffic congestion across the city,” said Bao.