Vietnam Country Information

Have you decided to Move to Vietnam ?
Whether you’re planning a tourist trip or a business relocation, here’s what you should know before you go.

General Overview

• Official country name: Socialist Republic of Vietnam
• Location: Southeast Asia
• Capital city: Hanoi
• Official language: Vietnamese
• Currency: Vietnamese đồng (VND)
• Time zone: UTC+7

Culture & Traditions

• Key customs to be aware of: Respect for elders, removing shoes before entering homes, greeting with a slight bow, and using both hands when giving or receiving items
• Number of official public holidays: 12 days (including Tết, the Lunar New Year, which can last a week)
  • New Year’s Day (January 1)
  • Lunar New Year (Tết) (varies, usually late January or February)
  • Hung Kings’ Festival (April 18)
  • Reunification Day (April 30)
  • International Workers’ Day (May 1)
  • National Day (September 2)
• Main traditional dishes and local drinks: Pho (noodle soup), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), Goi Cuon (fresh spring rolls), Ca Phe Sua Da (Vietnamese iced coffee), rice wine
• Languages spoken daily and common expressions: Vietnamese is the main language, but English is widely spoken in major cities. Basic phrases:
  • “Xin chào” (Hello)
  • “Cảm ơn” (Thank you)
  • “Bao nhiêu tiền?” (How much is it?)
• Specific clothing and behavioral norms: Modest dress in temples, conservative attire in rural areas, casual but neat clothing in cities

Demographics & Society

• Total population: Approximately 100 million
• Major ethnic groups: Vietnamese (Kinh) 85%, ethnic minorities including Tay, Thai, Muong, Khmer, and Hmong
• Main religion(s): Buddhism, Confucianism, Christianity, and indigenous beliefs
• General safety level: Generally safe, but petty theft and scams can occur in tourist areas
• Attitude towards foreigners and diversity: Generally welcoming, especially in urban and tourist areas, though language barriers exist in rural regions

Key Cities & Regions

• Capital city: Hanoi (8 million people) – Known for its historical Old Quarter and street food culture
• Ho Chi Minh City (9.3 million people) – Largest city, economic hub, vibrant nightlife, and French colonial landmarks
• Da Nang (1.1 million people) – Coastal city famous for beaches, Marble Mountains, and Ba Na Hills
• Hue (530,000 people) – Former imperial capital with historical sites and pagodas
• Hoi An (120,000 people) – UNESCO-listed ancient town with preserved architecture
• Must-visit regions or landmarks: Ha Long Bay, Sapa (mountains and rice terraces), Mekong Delta, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Weather & Climate

• Type of climate: Tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons
• Average seasonal temperatures:
  • North (Hanoi): Winter 10-20°C, Summer 25-35°C
  • South (Ho Chi Minh City): Consistently warm, 25-35°C year-round
• Best times to visit: October-April for cooler, drier weather

Practical Information

• Entry requirements: Visa required for most nationalities, eVisa available for short stays
• Local transportation options: Affordable motorbike taxis (Grab), buses, trains, and domestic flights
• Cost of living:
  • Rent: $300–$800/month (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
  • Food: $2–$5 per local meal
  • Transportation: $0.50–$1 for a bus ride, $1–$5 for a taxi ride
• Electrical outlets and voltage: Type A, C, F, 220V
• Emergency numbers to know:
  • Police: 113
  • Fire: 114
  • Ambulance: 115

Visitor Tips

• Gestures to avoid or cultural taboos: Avoid pointing with your finger, touching someone’s head, or showing public affection
• Specific regulations: Drug laws are strict, helmet required for motorbike riders, alcohol widely available but public intoxication is frowned upon
• Tips for integrating locally: Learn basic Vietnamese phrases, respect local customs, adapt to a slower pace of life in rural areas
• Potential risks or important considerations: Traffic can be chaotic, air pollution in major cities, mosquito-borne diseases in rural areas