So, you’re thinking about moving to Vietnam to start a new chapter? That’s exciting! Vietnam is a beautiful country with rich culture, friendly people, and incredible opportunities for expats. However, like any big move, it comes with its own set of challenges. This blog will give you the lowdown on what you need to know before packing your bags.
Table of Contents
1. Embracing Culture Shock
Vietnam is a vibrant, dynamic country, but you might experience a bit of culture shock, especially if you’ve never lived in Asia before. The bustling streets filled with motorbikes, the different social norms, and the unique food might be overwhelming at first. This might also be your first experience with a tonal language; you can recognize the letters but they don’t sound like what you’d expect! Also, if you’re not in a touristy area, there might not be many English speakers around and you might feel a little lost at first. However, the good news is that culture shock is a common experience for expats, and it gets easier as you settle in. Vietnam has a rich cultural heritage, and once you start exploring, you’ll find that the warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people make the adjustment much smoother. By the end of this blog, you’ll feel more prepared and ready to dive into your new life.
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2. Cost of Living in Vietnam
One of the biggest draws for expats moving to Vietnam is the affordable cost of living. Whether you’re coming from Europe, the US, or other parts of Asia, you’ll likely find that your money goes much further here. Housing, food, transportation, and entertainment are all significantly cheaper compared to Western countries. You can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. Street food, which is delicious and plentiful, can cost as little as $1-2 per meal, and even dining in a mid-range restaurant won’t set you back much. Rent is also affordable, with options ranging from modern apartments in the city to more modest accommodations in the countryside.
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For a more thorough look into how much it costs to live in Vietnam, check out our BLOG.
3. Where to Live and Housing in Vietnam
When it comes to choosing where to live in Vietnam, expats have a variety of options, each offering a unique experience.
City Life: If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, cities like Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and Hanoi are the places to be. HCMC, in particular, is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant expat community, plenty of job opportunities, and a wide range of amenities. You’ll find everything from high-rise apartments to cozy studios, and the nightlife is unbeatable.
Countryside Life: On the other hand, if you prefer a slower pace, cities like Da Nang, Long An, and Can Tho offer a more laid-back lifestyle. Da Nang, for example, is known for its beautiful beaches and mountains, offering a perfect blend of nature and modernity. These areas are also cheaper to live in compared to the big cities, making them ideal for those who want to enjoy a quieter, more affordable lifestyle.
Renting a house in Vietnam is relatively easy for expats, and there are many real estate agents who can help you find a place. Buying land, however, is more complicated, as the laws are stricter for foreigners. Check out our Housing in VN blog for a more in-depth look.
4. Job Opportunities
Vietnam offers a wide range of job opportunities for expats, particularly in the teaching sector. ESL (English as a Second Language) teaching is one of the most common jobs, and there are plenty of language centers, public schools, and international schools looking for native English speakers. The average salary for ESL teachers is enough to live comfortably and even save some money.
Apart from teaching, there are opportunities in tourism and hospitality, especially in popular tourist destinations. Expats with skills in content writing, graphic design, digital marketing, and other freelancing professions can also find work here. The digital nomad scene is growing, particularly in cities like Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll find co-working spaces and a community of like-minded professionals. You could also take the time to explore the country and work on the go, as long as you have a good job offer!
Check out our website for more information on teaching with VUS, including our different locations and our awesome benefits.
5. Work Permits and Visas
A work permit is a legal requirement for expats who want to work in Vietnam. It ensures that you are working legally and helps you avoid any issues with the authorities. To get a work permit, you’ll need to have a job offer from a Vietnamese company, as well as a clean criminal record, a health check, and proof of qualifications. Work permits are usually valid for one or two years and can be renewed. It’s crucial to keep track of your work permit’s expiration date and start the renewal process in advance to avoid any complications. One person can have multiple jobs, just be sure to have a work permit for each to ensure you’re not working in Vietnam illegally.
If this seems a little complicated, fear not! VUS has a Work Permit team that will guide you through the whole process. You’ll work directly with one of our officers who will answer any questions you may have along the way.
You’ll also need a visa in your passport to enter Vietnam legally. Two common types related to expats in Vietnam are tourist visas and business visas. A tourist visa allows you to enter the country for anywhere from 1-3 months, depending on your nationality. These can be physical stickers in your passport, or an e-visa. However, just because you are in the country doesn’t mean you are allowed to legally work. For that, you’ll need a business visa. Your employer can help arrange the paperwork, which you’ll use at a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate outside of Vietnam; they’ll put the visa in your passport and you can then enter/come back to Vietnam and be legally prepared for work.
6. Bank Accounts and Taxes
Opening a bank account in Vietnam as an expat is straightforward. You’ll need your passport, a visa, and a work permit to open an account. Many banks offer services in English, and you’ll find that managing your finances here is relatively easy. If you find it difficult to do it by yourself, VUS is here to help with our Buddy Program, which pairs you with a VUS employee to guide you through living in your new home abroad. Find out more about the VUS Buddy Program here.
Be sure to have an account and international debit/visa card with your bank in your home country so you can get by while waiting for your first paychecks. You can withdraw cash from local ATMs or use your cards directly at most hotels/restaurants/malls/etc. It’s also possible to transfer your salary from your VN bank to your home bank account as long as the money is deposited into your account through a job contract; unfortunately, you can’t take cash into a bank and send it home.
As for taxes, if you’re working in Vietnam, you’ll be required to pay personal income tax. The tax rate varies depending on your income level and residency status. It’s advisable to consult with a tax advisor or accountant to ensure you’re complying with local tax laws. Be aware that Vietnam tax law requires expats to pay a flat 20% personal income tax on all salaries for their first 183 days (around 6 months) of living in-country. Then you’ll be taxed at a progressive rate, which will increase your expected take-home pay. More information can be found here: Vietnam – Taxes on personal income.
7. Others
7.1. Bringing Relatives to Vietnam
If you’re planning to bring your family with you to Vietnam, there are visa options available. Family members of expats working in Vietnam can apply for a Dependent Visa (TT Visa). This visa allows them to live in Vietnam while you work. Eligible family members include spouses, children, and sometimes parents, depending on your visa category. It’s essential to check the specific requirements and apply in advance to ensure a smooth transition for your loved ones.
7.2 Same-Sex Marriage
Same-sex marriage is not legally recognized in Vietnam, but the country has become more open and tolerant toward the LGBTQ+ community in recent years. While same-sex couples may not have the same legal rights as heterosexual couples, they are generally accepted in society, especially in larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Public displays of affection, however, should be kept discreet, as Vietnam is still a conservative country in many respects.
Moving to Vietnam is an exciting adventure that offers countless opportunities for personal and professional growth. With the right preparation and an open mind, you’ll find that Vietnam is a welcoming and rewarding place to start your new life. Safe travels, and welcome to your new home!
With nearly 30 years of experience in English education in Vietnam, VUS has grown its network to 73 campuses and more than 2,700 qualified teaching staff nationwide.
VUS is proud to be recognized with two awards at the Vietnam Technology Excellence Awards 2025, honored as an Inspirational Brand at APEA for two consecutive years, and acknowledged through various national and international awards.
When joining VUS, teachers and teaching assistants enjoy a wide range of practical benefits that support long-term growth and commitment:
- Stable income: Steady and fair rewards for your efforts, allowing you to focus on teaching and growth.
- Ongoing professional training: Structured onboarding with entrance workshops and continuous support via sharing sessions and the Training Hub, led by Teaching Quality Managers holding master’s or doctoral degrees and extensive teaching experience.
- Modern, international-standard facilities: Diverse teaching tools, updated materials, and well equipped classrooms for a professional working environment.
- Engaging internal events: Activities that create opportunities to relax, connect with colleagues, and recharge your energy.
- Supportive colleagues: Work with a team that is always ready to share, support, and grow together.
- Clear career advancement: A transparent career path with many opportunities to challenge yourself and grow into higher roles.
VUS offers a professional workplace where you can strengthen your skills, grow your career, and inspire young learners across Vietnam:
– Expatriate Teachers: Experience teaching in Vietnam with international standards, integration support, and career development opportunities.
– Vietnamese Teachers: Continuously sharpen your expertise while helping students reach out to the world.
– Teaching Assistants: The first step to explore the teaching profession and gain valuable real-life classroom experience.
Start your teaching journey with VUS today!
