Vietnam has emerged as one of Southeast Asia's top expat and digital nomad destinations, with ultra-low cost of living, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes. Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Hoi An offer exceptional quality of life at a fraction of Western costs.
Last updated: March 2026 — Editorial Team, eVisa-Card.com
Options: E-Visa (90 days, single/multiple entry, $25), Temporary Residence Card (TRC, 1-2 years via sponsor), Business Visa (DN). Most expats cycle e-Visas or obtain a TRC through a local employer, language school or spouse.
Apply at evisa.gov.vn: passport scan, photo, credit card (~$25). Processing 3 business days. Valid 90 days, multiple entry.
Within 24 hours of arrival your landlord must file your details with local police (Cong An). Hotels do this automatically.
Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone at airports/stores with passport. Required for banking apps and ride-hailing.
Vietcombank, Techcombank, BIDV or VPBank with passport and valid visa. Online banking available in English.
For 3+ months: sponsor (employer/school/spouse) applies at the Immigration Department. Valid 1-2 years, renewable.
No public healthcare for foreigners. Private: Pacific Cross, BUPA Vietnam, Bao Viet. Budget $200-$600/year.
Register with Tax Department if earning Vietnam-source income. Flat 20% for residents (183+ days).
Hanoi 1-bed: $300-$700/month. HCMC District 1/2: $500-$1,200/month. Da Nang: $400-$800/month. Hoi An: $350-$700/month. Furnished serviced apartments widely available.
Vietcombank, Techcombank, BIDV, VPBank. Open with passport + valid visa. Wise popular for international transfers. Cash still widely used in smaller areas.
No public healthcare for foreign residents. Private hospitals: FV Hospital (HCMC), Vinmec, Hanoi Family Medical Practice. Private insurance $200-$600/year. Costs 70-80% lower than USA.
Budget: $700-$1,000/month. Comfortable: $1,200-$2,000/month. Luxury: $2,500+/month. Vietnam is one of the world's most affordable expat destinations.
Yes. No work permit is required for remote workers earning income from foreign sources. The e-Visa or TRC covers remote work.
Foreigners can own apartments for 50 years (renewable) but not land. Limited to 30% of units per building.
Very safe. Traffic (motorbikes) is the main risk. Violent crime against foreigners is extremely rare.
Apply for a new e-Visa at evisa.gov.vn before expiry, or obtain a TRC for longer stays.
Not mandatory in major cities and expat areas where English is widely spoken.