Visiting or Moving to Vietnam: The Ultimate Guide

Everything You Need to Know About Living, Working, and Thriving in Vietnam as an Expat

Thanks to its growing economy, affordable lifestyle, and welcoming culture, Vietnam has become one of the most attractive destinations for tourists and expats. Whether you're moving for work, exploring Southeast Asia, or enjoying a better quality of life, Vietnam has much to offer. This guide is designed to walk you through all relocation aspects—from securing visas and finding housing to navigating healthcare and embracing local culture.

Why Vietnam?

Vietnam offers a dynamic mix of modern cities, traditional heritage, and natural beauty. Cities like Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and Hanoi buzz with opportunity, while places like Da Nang offer a more relaxed pace by the beach. Vietnam's economy has transitioned from agriculture to tech, education, and entrepreneurship, opening doors to foreign professionals and remote workers.

You'll enjoy a low cost of living, rich street food culture, friendly locals, and excellent infrastructure. Vietnam's central location in Southeast Asia makes it a great base for traveling to nearby countries. Whether you're into nightlife, nature, or cultural immersion, a corner of Vietnam is waiting for you.

Why Vietnam?

Best Cities to Live In

Chautastic!

Getting Started

Step 1: Visas and Paperwork

All foreigners need to plan carefully for visas. ASEAN citizens can typically stay up to 30 days without a visa, but you'll need to apply in advance for more extended stays if you're not from an ASEAN country. Your visa type depends on your reason for coming—tourism, work, study, investment, or joining the family.

Tourist visas are the easiest and allow for short visits. Business visas suit those attending conferences or meetings. If you plan to work, your employer must sponsor a work permit, which you later convert into a Temporary Residence Card (TRC). Students need to show proof of enrollment, while dependents of expats can apply for family reunification visas. Investors can also qualify for long-term stays if they meet specific criteria.

You'll need documents like a valid passport, recent photos, a visa application, travel and accommodation proof, insurance, and sometimes background checks and proof of employment or education. Documents should be translated and certified—often through your home country's foreign ministry and the Vietnamese Embassy.

Step 2: Managing Finances

Vietnam is budget-friendly. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a city center typically costs $290 to $500 monthly. If you're farther out, prices drop even more. Food is incredibly affordable—local meals cost just a couple of dollars, and even mid-range restaurants are within reach.

Getting around is cheap, too. Buses and metros offer monthly passes for around $8, and motorbikes—Vietnam's most popular mode of transport—are economical and convenient. Utilities like electricity, water, and internet usually total $50–$100 monthly.

Foreigners must pay personal income tax, ranging from 5% to 35%, based on income. Vietnam has agreements to avoid double taxation with many countries, but consulting a local tax expert is highly recommended.

To open a bank account, you'll need a valid passport, visa, or TRC and proof of address. Major banks like Vietcombank and international names like HSBC are reliable. Mobile apps like Momo and ZaloPay make local payments fast and simple.

Step 3: Housing and Accommodation

Locating a place to live in Vietnam is a straightforward process. Most expats opt for renting, typically signing 6-12 month leases. You'll need a deposit (usually one to three months' rent), and some landlords ask for payment quarterly. Fully furnished apartments and shared houses are common, especially in major cities. This ease of finding accommodation should reassure you and boost your confidence in your relocation process.

Foreigners can buy property but only under a 50-year leasehold structure. You're limited to owning 30% of units in an apartment complex, and local legal support is essential for navigating regulations.

In Ho Chi Minh City, District 1 is central and busy, perfect for nightlife lovers. District 2 (Thao Dien) is quieter and full of expats, cafes, and international schools. District 3 is residential and more laid-back, while District 7 offers modern housing and family-friendly spaces. Binh Thanh mixes local charm with upscale developments.

In Hanoi, Tay Ho (West Lake) is the go-to expat area with a strong international vibe. The Old Quarter is lively but touristy, and Ba Dinh offers a more local lifestyle with good city access.

Da Nang is ideal for those wanting a slower pace. Areas like My An and Khue My are close to the beach and have a mix of locals and foreigners. A Thuong is the heart of the social scene, while Son Tra is more rugged and appealing to outdoor lovers.

Before signing a lease, confirm details like maintenance responsibilities, subletting rules, and pet policies. Get the lease translated and reviewed by a local expert.

Step 4: Working in Vietnam

Vietnam's job market is brimming with opportunities across various sectors. English teaching is the most accessible field, especially for native speakers with a degree and TEFL certification. Other sectors include IT, finance, digital marketing, tourism, and renewable energy. This variety of job opportunities should make you feel excited and optimistic about your career prospects in Vietnam.

Job sites like VietnamWorks and MyWork are helpful for job hunting. LinkedIn is also widely used by recruiters. If you're already in the country, networking through local events or expat groups can also lead to great opportunities.

Many digital nomads base themselves in Da Nang or Hanoi, working remotely while enjoying Vietnam's low cost of living. Internet speeds are fast, and coworking spaces are plentiful.

Vietnamese workplaces tend to be hierarchical and formal. Respect for elders and punctuality are essential. While many Vietnamese professionals speak English, learning some Vietnamese is not just a practical necessity, but also a sign of respect for the local culture. It will make you feel more connected and considerate in your professional interactions.

Step 5: Healthcare and Education

Vietnam has both public and private healthcare systems. Public hospitals are more affordable but often crowded. Private hospitals offer faster service and English-speaking staff. Top facilities include FV Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City and Vinmec hospitals nationwide.

You'll want international health insurance to cover significant medical needs. Providers like SafetyWing offer expat-oriented coverage, including emergency evacuation.

Mental health care is limited, so those requiring ongoing therapy should check options carefully. Also, ambulance services are privatized. You'll need to specify the hospital and often pay cash on arrival.

For families, Vietnam has many excellent international schools offering curricula in English, including British, American, IB, and more. Tuition can range from $5,000 to $30,000 annually. Schools like the British International School and RMIT are widely respected.

Step 6: Safety and Emergencies

Vietnam is generally safe. Violent crime is rare, and most neighborhoods are peaceful. That said, petty crimes like pickpocketing can happen in busy tourist areas. Some women have reported being approached by strangers on motorbikes—while not physically dangerous, these experiences can be unsettling.

Traffic is the most significant hazard. The streets are packed with motorbikes, and driving can feel chaotic. Before renting or buying a motorbike, spend a few days observing traffic and using Grab (Vietnam's version of Uber) to get around.

Heavy flooding and storms can disrupt daily life during the rainy season, especially in central and northern regions. It's wise to monitor weather alerts during these months.

For emergencies, remember these numbers: 113 for police, 114 for fire, and 115 for ambulances. Not all operators speak English, so know the location of the nearest international clinic.

Step 7: Embracing Local Life

Vietnamese culture emphasizes family, respect, and community. People are generally warm and helpful, though friendships may take time to develop. Formal greetings, modest dress, and polite behavior go a long way in daily interactions.

Vietnamese is a tonal language. Although pronunciation can be tricky, grammar is straightforward. Even learning a few phrases will enhance your experience. Apps like Mondly are great for starting, but in-person classes help with pronunciation.

Major holidays include Tết (Lunar New Year), the Mid-Autumn Festival, and National Day. These events are colorful, joyful, and steeped in tradition. Participating in local festivals is a fantastic way to bond with the community.

Cafes, coworking spaces, and social clubs make it easy to meet people, especially in expat-friendly areas like Thao Dien or Tay Ho. In Da Nang, the smaller expat community often feels more connected—everyone knows someone who knows someone.

Best Cities to Live In

Vietnam has several great cities that cater to a wide range of lifestyles, whether you're coming for a vacation or planning to stay long-term. Each town offers a unique flavor, culture, and community, so choosing the right one can significantly impact your experience.

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is Vietnam's economic powerhouse and the most cosmopolitan city in the country. It's a buzzing metropolis filled with rooftop bars, international restaurants, trendy cafes, and lively markets. District 1 is the city's beating heart with landmarks like Ben Thanh Market and the Saigon Opera House. District 2, especially the Thao Dien area, is a favorite among expats, offering tree-lined streets, international schools, and plenty of Western-style comforts. For food lovers, the city offers everything from upscale dining to unforgettable street food, like pho, banh mi, and com tam. It's also a significant business hub, ideal for professionals looking to network or grow their careers. While the city is hot and humid year-round, it has a vibrant energy that appeals to people who love urban life.

Hanoi, the capital, provides a contrasting experience with its deep-rooted culture and slower pace. Known for its preserved French colonial architecture and traditional Vietnamese charm, Hanoi is a city where old meets new. The Old Quarter is famous for its winding alleys, temples, and lakes—Hoan Kiem Lake being the most iconic. Tay Ho (West Lake) is the main expat area, known for its upscale homes, lakeside cafes, and quieter streets. Hanoi has four seasons, including a cooler winter, which many expats appreciate after experiencing the relentless heat of the south. The city is also a gateway to northern attractions like Ha Long Bay, Sapa, and Ninh Binh, making it an excellent base for weekend getaways. The food here is slightly different from the south, with specialties like bun cha, cha ca, and egg coffee drawing both locals and tourists.

Da Nang is often described as Vietnam's most livable city. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, it offers beautiful beaches, a laid-back lifestyle, and clean, modern infrastructure. The city is growing fast but still retains a small-town feel, especially in the expat-favored neighborhoods of My An and An Thuong, which are just minutes from the beach. Da Nang is great for outdoor lovers—you can surf, hike in the nearby Son Tra Peninsula (also known as Monkey Mountain), or take scenic rides along the Hai Van Pass. Its proximity to Hoi An, one of Vietnam's most charming and well-preserved ancient towns, adds to its appeal. The food in Da Nang is known for dishes like mi Quang and bun thit nuong, and the pace of life is noticeably more relaxed than in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Digital nomads, retirees, and young families increasingly choose Da Nang as their base in Vietnam.

No matter your lifestyle, one of these three cities will likely suit your needs—whether you thrive in the hustle and bustle, crave cultural immersion, or dream of a laid-back beach town with all the essentials nearby.

Hanoi, the capital, has a more traditional vibe with clear seasons and proximity to mountains and cultural landmarks. Tay Ho is the central expat neighborhood, but Ba Dinh and West Lake offer great options.

Da Nang is a beachside gem with the charm of a small town but the convenience of a city. It's perfect for digital nomads and those who prefer nature, a slower pace, and a close-knit expat scene.

Chautastic!

Moving to Vietnam is an adventure that combines opportunity, discovery, and transformation. Whether chasing a dream job, building a remote career, or simply exploring a new culture, Vietnam welcomes you with open arms.

Thorough planning is key—get your documents in order, choose the proper city, understand your costs, and dive into the culture. While many aspects of relocation can be handled independently, sometimes it's helpful to have trusted guidance. That's where Chautastic! comes in.

Fantastic! is your go-to resource for planning a trip or moving to Vietnam in the long term. Our team is made up of people who understand both sides of the journey—we have native English speakers who have lived, worked, and traveled extensively in Vietnam and abroad. This allows us to anticipate your questions, understand your concerns, and offer personalized advice that makes a difference.

Whether you're coming for a few weeks or planning to stay for years, Chautastic! can help with everything from creating your travel itinerary and recommending safe and vibrant neighborhoods to connecting you with local professionals and explaining cultural nuances. We're here to remove the mystery and stress of relocating and replace it with clarity and excitement.

Your next chapter awaits in Vietnam, and there's no better time to start than now—with Chautastic! At your side to guide the way.