Living in Can Tho: the ultimate expat guide

Can Tho's economy is driven by agriculture, aquaculture, food processing, and increasingly, services and technology. As the commercial hub of the Mekong Delta, the city offers employment opportunities for expatriates in education, business development, and specialized technical roles, though options are more limited compared to Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.

Key Industries and Opportunities

The Mekong Delta contributes over 50% of Vietnam's rice production, and Can Tho serves as the processing and export center for this agricultural output. Major employers include food processing companies, aquaculture firms, and agricultural technology enterprises. The city is also home to several industrial zones attracting foreign investment. English teaching remains a viable option, with positions available at language centers and international schools. Salaries for English teachers typically range from VND 20,000,000 to VND 35,000,000 per month (approximately USD 800–1,400).

Work Permits and Requirements

Foreigners working in Vietnam for more than 90 days must obtain a work permit. The process requires your employer to first advertise the position to Vietnamese candidates. Work permits are valid for up to 2 years and can be extended once. Requirements include a bachelor's degree or equivalent, 3 years of relevant experience, a clean criminal record, and a health certificate from an authorized facility.

Sources: Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA), Decree 74/2024/ND-CP

Can Tho is the educational center of the Mekong Delta, home to several universities that attract students from across the region. For expatriates considering academic pursuits or those with university-age children, the city offers affordable higher education options with some programs available in English.

Can Tho University (CTU)

Can Tho University is the premier institution in the Mekong Delta, established in 1966. As a major state university, CTU enrolls approximately 41,800 undergraduate students and 2,400 postgraduate students across 99 undergraduate programs, 48 master's programs, and 19 doctoral programs. The university is internationally recognized for its research in agriculture, aquaculture, and environmental management—fields directly relevant to the Mekong Delta's economy. CTU has partnerships with over 100 international institutions and regularly hosts exchange students from the United States, Belgium, and Japan. While most programs are taught in Vietnamese, select graduate programs are available in English, particularly in aquaculture and agricultural sciences.

Tuition and Admission

International students benefit from Vietnam's affordable tuition fees. At Can Tho University, annual fees range from approximately USD 1,200 to USD 3,500 depending on the program and degree level. Other institutions in the city include Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Tay Do University, Nam Can Tho University, and FPT University's Can Tho campus. Admission typically requires proof of previous education, language proficiency (Vietnamese or English depending on the program), and entrance examinations for competitive programs.

Sources: Can Tho University, QS Top Universities

While Can Tho's international school options are more limited than in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, the city does offer educational choices for expatriate families. The primary international school serves students from preschool through secondary education, with additional options available via commuting or boarding arrangements in Ho Chi Minh City.

Singapore International School, Can Tho

Singapore International School (SIS) Can Tho is the main international education provider in the city, located on Nguyen Van Cu Street, An Binh Ward, Ninh Kieu District. The school serves students from Pre-Nursery through Year 12 (ages 2–18), offering both British and Singaporean curricula. Students can pursue IGCSE and A-Level qualifications, internationally recognized credentials that facilitate university admission worldwide. The language of instruction is English, making it suitable for expatriate children. Annual tuition fees range from approximately VND 151,625,000 to VND 292,092,000 (roughly USD 6,000–11,600), which is significantly lower than comparable schools in Ho Chi Minh City.

Alternative Options

For families requiring more diverse international schooling options, Ho Chi Minh City (approximately 3–4 hours by road) offers numerous international schools including the British International School, Australian International School, and Canadian International School. Some families opt for boarding arrangements or weekly commuting. Local Vietnamese public schools are technically accessible to foreign children, though language barriers and different teaching methodologies make this challenging for most expatriate families. Private Vietnamese schools with bilingual programs offer a middle-ground option.

Sources: Singapore International School Vietnam, International Schools Database

Can Tho offers expatriates affordable housing options compared to Vietnam's major cities. Rental prices are significantly lower than in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, with a variety of accommodation types available from modern apartments to traditional houses with gardens.

Popular Neighborhoods for Expatriates

Ninh Kieu District is the city center and most popular area for expatriates. This district includes the iconic Ninh Kieu Wharf along the Hau River, the night market, and most commercial amenities. Here you'll find modern apartment buildings, serviced apartments, and easy access to restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers like Vincom Plaza. Cai Rang District, known for its famous floating market, offers more spacious housing options including houses with gardens at lower prices than the city center. Binh Thuy District provides a quieter residential environment with access to historical sites like the Binh Thuy Ancient House. For those seeking newer developments, areas near the Can Tho Bridge feature modern apartment complexes with river views.

Rental Prices and Procedures

Rental prices in Can Tho are considerably lower than in Ho Chi Minh City. A furnished one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs between VND 5,000,000–8,000,000 per month (approximately USD 200–320). A three-bedroom apartment or house ranges from VND 10,000,000–20,000,000 per month (USD 400–800). Rental contracts are usually for one year with a deposit of 1–2 months' rent. Foreign nationals can rent properties directly but cannot own land in Vietnam. Apartments in condominium buildings can be owned by foreigners for up to 50 years (renewable), though ownership is limited to 30% of units in any building.

Sources: Numbeo, Vietnam Plus (Ministry of Construction data)

Can Tho offers a rich cultural experience centered on its river heritage, with plenty of activities for expatriates to explore during their time off. From early morning floating markets to evening riverside strolls, the city provides both authentic local experiences and modern entertainment options.

Cultural Attractions

The Cai Rang Floating Market is Can Tho's most famous attraction and one of the largest wholesale floating markets in the Mekong Delta. Located 6 kilometers from the city center, the market comes alive between 4 AM and 8 AM, with vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and breakfast from their boats. In 2016, it was recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage. The Phong Dien Floating Market offers a smaller, more intimate experience. Ninh Kieu Wharf is the city's iconic waterfront, perfect for evening walks, photography, and watching river life unfold. The Can Tho Museum provides excellent insights into regional history and culture. Religious sites include the Ong Pagoda (Chinese temple), Munirangsyaram Pagoda (Khmer Buddhist), and the Binh Thuy Ancient House—a beautifully preserved 1870 residence blending French and Asian architecture.

Recreation and Entertainment

Can Tho's fruit gardens offer visitors the chance to sample tropical fruits including pomelo, longan, rambutan, mangosteen, and durian directly from the orchards. Boat tours through the Mekong's smaller canals provide glimpses of rural delta life. The Can Tho Night Market is a lively spot for street food, local goods, and people-watching. Modern amenities include Vincom Plaza for shopping and cinema, as well as numerous cafes and restaurants along the riverfront. Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery offers a peaceful retreat for meditation and scenic views. For day trips, consider visiting the Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary or exploring the Mekong Delta's network of waterways by boat or bicycle.

Daily life in Can Tho revolves around the rhythm of the Mekong Delta—early mornings, afternoon rest during the heat, and vibrant evenings along the riverfront. The city offers a more relaxed pace than Vietnam's major urban centers while still providing modern conveniences.

Transportation

Can Tho International Airport (VCA) is located 9 kilometers from the city center, offering domestic flights to Hanoi, Da Nang, Hai Phong, Phu Quoc, and Con Dao operated by Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways. International travelers typically connect through Ho Chi Minh City's Tan Son Nhat Airport (165 km away). Buses connect Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City with departures every 30 minutes, costing approximately VND 165,000 (USD 6.50) for the 3–4 hour journey. Within the city, transportation options include Mai Linh taxis, Grab (ride-hailing app), and xe om (motorcycle taxis). Many expatriates purchase or rent motorbikes for daily transportation, with rental costs around USD 50–100 per month. Local buses operate limited routes at VND 7,000 per ride.

Climate and Lifestyle

Can Tho has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (December–April) and the rainy season (May–November). The average temperature is 28°C year-round. The rainy season brings afternoon downpours but rarely disrupts daily activities for long. Daily life typically starts early—floating markets begin at 4–5 AM—and includes a rest period during the hottest part of the day. Evening is the most social time, with locals and expatriates gathering at riverside cafes, the night market, and restaurants. Vietnamese is the primary language, and English proficiency is limited outside tourist areas and international businesses.

Can Tho offers one of the most affordable costs of living among Vietnamese cities, making it attractive for expatriates seeking value. Restaurant prices are approximately 33% lower than in Ho Chi Minh City, and groceries cost about 10% less. Below are estimated monthly budgets for different household types.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

A single expatriate can live comfortably in Can Tho on a moderate budget. Basic expenses include housing, food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment. Those who adopt a more local lifestyle can reduce costs significantly.

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

Families with children will have higher expenses, primarily due to international school fees and larger housing requirements. Healthcare costs increase with dependents.

Sources: Numbeo, local market surveys 2024