Expat Guide to Vietnam
Everything you need to know about living and working in Vietnam.
Visa & Residency
Vietnam's E-Visa allows 90-day single or multiple entry stays — apply online for $25. The 1-year Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is available with employer sponsorship. Business visa (DN category) is commonly used by digital nomads through Vietnamese agencies. There is no official digital nomad visa, and remote work on tourist/e-visas is technically a gray area (widely practiced but not legally sanctioned). Visa regulations change frequently — Vietnam's immigration policy has shifted multiple times. Always verify current rules before traveling.
Tax System
Progressive income tax from 5% to 35% for tax residents (183+ days). Non-residents pay a flat 20% on Vietnamese-source income. Most remote workers on tourist/business visas operating in the gray zone are not actively taxed on foreign income, but this is technically not legal and enforcement could change. VAT is 8-10% on most goods and services. Social insurance contributions apply to formal employees. Vietnam has double taxation treaties with 80+ countries. For the vast majority of digital nomads, Vietnam's tax situation is simple in practice — you earn foreign income, transfer what you need via Wise, and pay taxes in your home country.
Note: Always consult a qualified tax advisor for your specific situation.
Healthcare
International hospitals and clinics in Ho Chi Minh City (FV Hospital, Vinmec International Hospital) and Hanoi (Vinmec, French Hospital) provide excellent care with English-speaking staff. Costs are very affordable — a comprehensive health check costs $100-200. Travel insurance with medical evacuation is essential: for serious injuries or complex surgeries, evacuation to Bangkok or Singapore is recommended. Private health insurance costs $100-250/month from international providers. Vietnamese pharmacies sell many medications over-the-counter that require prescriptions elsewhere. Local hospitals are adequate for basic care but communication can be challenging. Dental care is affordable and increasingly good quality in major cities.
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Get Covered →Banking
Vietcombank and Techcombank are the most established banks. Opening an account officially requires a work permit, but some branches will open accounts for those with valid visas — success varies by branch and officer. Bring passport, visa, proof of address, and Vietnamese phone number. Most expats rely on Wise for receiving international payments and convert to VND as needed through ATMs. ATM withdrawal limits are low (2-5 million VND per transaction, $80-200). MoMo and ZaloPay are widely used mobile payment apps. Cash is still king for many transactions, especially at markets and small shops.
Wise offers the real exchange rate with transparent, low fees. Trusted by 16M+ people — the #1 tool we recommend to every expat client.
Try Wise Free →Cities in Vietnam
