The real cost of immigrating to Vietnam

Visa and Immigration Fees

Your visa type determines your first costs. Tourist visas are cheapest, while business or temporary residence visas cost more. You'll also need to pay for:

• Visa applications and processing
• Health certificates or medical exams
• Document translations and notarization
• Airport fees and arrival taxes

Check Vietnam's official immigration website for current visa fees, as prices change regularly.

Housing and Deposits

Finding housing in Vietnam varies greatly by city and neighborhood. Budget for:

• Rental deposits (often 1-3 months' rent upfront)
• Monthly rent (higher in central Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi)
• Furniture and utilities setup
• Internet and phone installation

Expat areas cost significantly more than local neighborhoods. Many immigrants rent furnished apartments to reduce initial spending.

Daily Living Expenses

Food, transportation, and utilities are generally affordable compared to Western countries, but costs depend on your lifestyle:

• Groceries and local food
• Motorbike or public transportation
• Electricity, water, and internet
• Healthcare and insurance

Eating at local restaurants is cheap; shopping at expat supermarkets is expensive. Your spending habits matter more than the average cost.

Work Permits and Licenses

If you plan to work, expect additional fees for:

• Work permits and applications
• Business registration (if self-employed)
• Professional certifications or licensing
• Tax registration

Employers sometimes cover work permit costs, so clarify this before moving.

Health Insurance and Medical Care

Healthcare in Vietnam is affordable, but protecting yourself matters:

• International health insurance premiums
• Initial medical exams and vaccinations
• Ongoing healthcare costs
• Emergency evacuation insurance

Private hospitals in major cities cater to expats but charge more than local facilities.

Travel and Setup Costs

Don't forget one-time expenses:

• Flights and transportation
• Shipping belongings internationally
• Temporary accommodation while house-hunting
• Bank account setup and fees
• SIM card and local phone number

Smart Budgeting Tips

• Start with a tourist visa to explore before committing long-term
• Live like a local to reduce costs significantly
• Join expat groups to learn real prices from people already there
• Open a local bank account to avoid international transfer fees
• Buy a motorbike instead of using taxis daily

The total cost of immigrating to Vietnam depends on your choices—you can live very affordably or spend like you're in a developed country. Most expats find Vietnam reasonable compared to their home countries, but budget honestly based on your lifestyle.

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.