Expat community

Vietnam’s expat community is diverse and thriving, especially in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. Ho Chi Minh City is a magnet for professionals and entrepreneurs drawn to its dynamic business environment and bustling lifestyle. Hanoi, the capital, offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities, attracting diplomats, educators, and cultural enthusiasts. Da Nang, with its coastal beauty and relaxed vibe, is a favorite among retirees and digital nomads.

Expats often connect through international schools, language exchange programs, social clubs, and platforms like Facebook groups, InterNations, and Meetup. Regular networking events and co-working spaces provide opportunities to build professional and personal relationships. Smaller towns like Hoi An appeal to creatives and those seeking a quieter, culturally immersive lifestyle.

Setting up a local bank account

Opening a bank account in Vietnam is essential for managing finances like receiving salaries, paying rent, or handling bills. Here's how to do it:

1. Choose a bank: Popular banks include Vietcombank, Techcombank, and BIDV. Digital options like Timo offer convenient online services.
2. Required documents: You’ll typically need a passport, proof of residency (e.g., a lease agreement or utility bill), work permit or visa (some banks may accept a tourist visa, but policies vary).‍
3. Process: Visit a bank branch with the required documents, complete an application form and meet with a bank officer. And, for digital banks, you can apply online via their app.‍
4. Account activation: Once your account is approved, you’ll receive a debit card and access to online banking services.

Some banks cater specifically to expats and offer English-speaking staff, making the process smoother.

Getting Around

• ‍Public transport: Vietnam’s cities have affordable and widespread public transport systems. Buses are the primary mode of transportation and are well-connected, with fares as low as $0.30 per ride. Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are popular for short trips, offering motorbike taxis and cars. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are also developing metro systems to ease urban congestion.‍
• Buying a vehicle: Expats can purchase motorbikes or cars, with motorbikes being the most common mode of transportation. Requirements includes a passport, proof of residency, and a valid Vietnamese driver’s license. Motorbikes are affordable, costing $300–$1,500 depending on the model, but ensure you have proper registration and insurance.‍
• Driver’s License: Foreign driver’s licenses are valid for a limited time but must be converted to a Vietnamese license for long-term stays. This requires a valid foreign license, passport, work permit or visa, translation of the foreign license (notarized)

Driving tests are required for new drivers, while reciprocal agreements may simplify the process for some nationalities.

Medical system

Vietnam’s healthcare system includes public and private services. While public facilities are affordable, expats often prefer private healthcare for better quality and shorter wait times.

• ‍Public healthcare: Public hospitals are budget-friendly but vary in quality. Urban hospitals in cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are better equipped than rural facilities. Crowded conditions and long wait times are common, and language barriers may pose challenges.‍
• Private healthcare: Private facilities, such as Vinmec and Family Medical Practice, offer high-quality care with English-speaking staff and modern amenities. Costs range from $50 to $200 per visit, with private insurance recommended to manage expenses.‍
• Health insurance: Private health insurance is essential for expats to access quality care and avoid financial strain. Both international and local insurers provide plans covering routine and emergency treatments.

Vietnam’s healthcare system continues to improve, with private options ensuring a comfortable and reliable experience for expatriates.

Visa eligibility

Vietnam offers a range of visa options catering to various professional and personal needs:

• ‍Digital Nomad Visa: Designed for remote workers, this visa allows for stays of up to one year, with potential renewals. Applicants must demonstrate remote employment, a minimum monthly income of $2,000 USD, or significant savings, alongside proof of health insurance.‍
• Work Visa: Granted to individuals with a job offer from a Vietnamese employer. The employer sponsors the visa and must prove the necessity of hiring a foreign worker.‍
• Student Visa: For those enrolled in educational institutions in Vietnam. Requires proof of enrollment and financial capacity to support living expenses.‍
• Family Reunion Visa: Available to relatives of Vietnamese citizens or permanent residents. Proof of familial relationship and financial stability is necessary.‍
• Investor Visa: Issued to individuals investing in Vietnam, typically requiring a minimum investment amount, which varies by sector.

Temporary residence

Temporary residence permits in Vietnam are linked to work, study, or family purposes. These permits are typically issued for one to two years and can be renewed based on the continuation of the stated purpose.

Key benefits:

• Eligibility to open bank accounts and sign long-term leases.
• Access to Vietnam’s public healthcare and social services.
• Freedom to travel within Southeast Asia with visa-exemption agreements.

Permanent residence

Permanent residence in Vietnam is granted under specific conditions, such as:

• Long-term employment or investment in the country.
• Marriage to a Vietnamese citizen.
• Significant contributions to Vietnam’s development.

Key requirements include proof of financial stability, a clean criminal record, and integration into Vietnamese society. Applications are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, with specific criteria for each category.

Digital Nomad Visa

Vietnam's Digital Nomad Visa is tailored for remote workers and freelancers.

Requirements:

• Proof of monthly income exceeding $2,000 USD or substantial savings.
• Health insurance valid throughout the stay.
• Documentation proving remote employment or self-employment.

Application process:

• Submit at a Vietnamese consulate abroad or immigration offices within Vietnam.
• Visa validity: Typically one year, with an option for renewal based on meeting the criteria.

Work culture

Vietnamese work culture emphasizes hierarchy, respect, and relationship-building.

• Relationship building: Personal connections and trust are integral to business dealings, with informal conversations often preceding formal discussions.
• Hierarchy: Traditional workplaces respect seniority, though younger industries, like tech, adopt more casual approaches.
• Work-life balance: While overtime is common, there’s a growing appreciation for leisure and family time.
• Punctuality: Being on time is expected for meetings, although minor delays are usually excused.

Job opportunities for expats

Expats in Vietnam commonly find opportunities in:

• Teaching: High demand for English teachers in private schools and language centers.
• IT and tech: Vietnam’s growing tech sector seeks developers, engineers, and data analysts.
• Hospitality and tourism: Opportunities in hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies.
• Export and manufacturing: Roles in Vietnam’s robust export-driven economy.

Job-seeking platforms like VietnamWorks, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor are useful, as are local networking events and recruitment agencies.

Freelancing & entrepreneurship

Vietnam offers opportunities for freelancers and entrepreneurs, particularly in tech, tourism, and e-commerce.

Freelancing:

• Expats need a tax code to invoice clients legally.
• Digital Nomad Visa holders can freelance without local employer sponsorship.

Starting a Business:

• Register your business with the Department of Planning and Investment.
• Obtain a Business Registration Certificate and Tax Identification Number.
• Popular industries include tech startups, sustainable products, and food services.

Government initiatives, like the Small and Medium Enterprise Support Program, offer guidance and funding for entrepreneurs.

Tax considerations

Vietnam’s tax system applies to residents and non-residents differently, with professional advice recommended for compliance.

• Income tax: Progressive rates range from 5% to 35% for residents. Non-residents are taxed a flat rate of 20% on Vietnam-sourced income.
• Social security: Employers and employees contribute to social security, which funds healthcare and pensions.
• Double taxation agreements: Vietnam has agreements with several countries to avoid double taxation, benefiting expats with income abroad.

Expats staying over 183 days in a calendar year are considered tax residents and must file taxes with the General Department of Taxation.

Equivalent services & platforms

Here are key services to help you settle into Vietnam and navigate daily life with ease:

• Taxi Service: Grab, Be, Gojek
• Supermarket: Co.opmart, VinMart, Big C
• Messaging: Zalo, WhatsApp, Viber
• Food delivery: GrabFood, Baemin, ShopeeFood
• Internet provider: Viettel, VNPT, FPT Telecom
• Bank: Vietcombank, Techcombank, BIDV, Timo (digital bank)
• Online hotels: Agoda, Booking.com, Airbnb
• Online shopping: Shopee, Lazada, Tiki
• Streaming: Netflix, Spotify, YouTube Premium

Apps to download before arrival

These apps will simplify your transition to Vietnam:

• Navigation: Google Maps, Here WeGo
• Public transport: BusMap, Grab
• Ride-hailing: Grab, Be, Gojek
• Food delivery: GrabFood, Baemin
• Language translation: Google Translate, Duolingo
• Payments: MoMo, ZaloPay, Viettel Pay
• Weather: AccuWeather, Windy

All apps are available on iOS and Android platforms.

Government websites

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: www.mofa.gov.vn
• Vietnam Immigration Department: xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
• General Department of Taxation: www.gdt.gov.vn

Emergency services

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