jrharvey
American expat in Vietnam
Forum posts
192
About me
American
Registration: 16 February 2023
New dog 4 lbs by Rosechait
Anyone have an extra Leah, blanket, food for my little Honey Bear. I’m in Thai Dien
@Cheryl That group is pretty good. I used it a lot to get info for my dog. Read More
Getting around with your pet in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Living in Vietnam with a pet also means learning how to navigate local transport systems together. From daily commutes to occasional trips, you have to navigate betwwen local rules and real-life experiences. Whether you’re a ...
How do you usually travel with your pet in Vietnam?Private car/van for long trips or my wife calls into a taxi specifically mentioning we have a dog. Ive also been known to carry my 47lb dog on the back of a motorbike while my wife drives. Most ... Read More
Any urgent guidance to facilitate legalization!? by giscivil92
Hello Folks,I hope you're doing wellI have a job offer from a company in Hanoi. According to the immigration law, my university degrees, work experience certificate, and criminal clearance letter must be legalized! 🤔 😐I'm currently ...
However I have seen so many other nationalities constantly move to Vietnam to work but without anything! - @giscivil92I know it can feel like this sometimes but trust me its something everyone has to deal with. The bureaucracy nightmare is just ... Read More
Any urgent guidance to facilitate legalization!? by giscivil92
Hello Folks,I hope you're doing wellI have a job offer from a company in Hanoi. According to the immigration law, my university degrees, work experience certificate, and criminal clearance letter must be legalized! 🤔 😐I'm currently ...
@giscivil92 When you say they need 2x legalization what do you mean? Like double the documents? You will find that when it comes to bureaucracy there is no equal to Vietnam lol. Its one of the things those of us that have been here a while just ... Read More
Any urgent guidance to facilitate legalization!? by giscivil92
Hello Folks,I hope you're doing wellI have a job offer from a company in Hanoi. According to the immigration law, my university degrees, work experience certificate, and criminal clearance letter must be legalized! 🤔 😐I'm currently ...
Typically when documents need to be "legalized" it means they have to be notorized by the Iranian Embassy in Vietnam and then stamped by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. On top of that the document may also need to be translated and notorized by a ... Read More
Can you hear me now? by 1happykamper
Good grief this forum is quiet. No posts for two years?Greetings from Chiang Mai. The heat is making things miserable here. I've put up with it for 11 years in Thailand.Is Da Lat, Vietnam my next base? Is it yours?
Da Lat is my go to escape from the heat. Its a magical place. Very different vibe than the rest of Vietnam in my opinion. Reminds me of the Blue Ridge mountains back home. Read More
With fuel prices soaring, how are you getting around in Vietnam? by Veedushi
Hello everyone!In many countries, transportation costs are becoming a real challenge for expats. Some are completely changing their habits: using public transport more often, carpooling, switching to scooters… or cycling.In Denmark, for ...
I have had an electric motorbike since early 2023. Totally unrelated to the fuel crisis my wife and I have been using the bus and the metro since she got pregnant early last year. It was more about being safe and staying off the road than worrying ... Read More
How's The Weather Where You Are? by Aidan in HCMC
Got a notice of "Severe Weather Alert" for the next 5 or 6 days.
High of 36c in Saigon today. Pretty hot but after having visited Singapore and Thailand this time of year seeing temps over 41c I cant complain. Read More
Raising kids the local way in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Raising children as an expat in Vietnam means discovering new parenting habits. School routines, discipline, food habits, independence, social life… many things may work differently in Vietnam compared to your home ...
What has surprised you most about raising kids in Vietnam?My baby is only 3 months old so what I have experienced is only for newborns. Here are some things that shocked me to learn.Every Vietnamese person we met always thinks your baby is ... Read More
Remote work abroad by Derek Severin
Hello,I am looking for information regarding my potential future professional situation.I am a Belgian citizen currently living in Vietnam on a tourist visa. I recently got married to a Vietnamese citizen, which should allow me to apply for a ...
You probably wont get the most accurate answer here but I will say what I know to the best of my ability. Double check this with an experienced tax attorney here. Also keep in mind I went to 3 different attorneys and got 3 totally different answers ... Read More
Taking a dog to Vietnam by Nick Dunning
Hi Everyone. New here. I am planning to move to Vietnam permanently to teach English. I want to take my dog (small chihuahua) with me. I know this is do-able, but I am concerned that I won't find anywhere to live. I am planning on Hanoi - which i ...
@Nick Dunning There will be landlords that are dog friendly. Just be very clear and upfront with them. Know the rules of the apartment. Keep in mind that if you are renting a room in a much larger apartment development the landlord may say one ... Read More
Long term rentals and the law for foreigners by MarkinNam
Hi all, I'm seeing some chatter about the gov not allowing long term apartment leasing / renting, has anyone heard likewise ? If true, is there a way around it legitimate ? My friend suggested I rent with him and his wife. That would be difficult ! ...
Do you have any link to this possible law? I don't know how this would even be possible. Read More
Seeking Advice: Moving Belongings & a Cat to HCMC by vastuniverse102
Hi everyone! I’m planning a move to Ho Chi Minh City and would appreciate advice from anyone who’s: - Shipping personal belongings (several boxes, not a full container) - Brought a pet into Vietnam. I’m brining my cat. (airlines, ...
@vastuniverse102 No. I think with all the proper paperwork and vaccines its not required. Contact an agent and they can guide you through it. Read More
Seeking Advice: Moving Belongings & a Cat to HCMC by vastuniverse102
Hi everyone! I’m planning a move to Ho Chi Minh City and would appreciate advice from anyone who’s: - Shipping personal belongings (several boxes, not a full container) - Brought a pet into Vietnam. I’m brining my cat. (airlines, ...
I brought my dog to Vietnam and bringing a pet in is absolutely brutal. My wife and I did it ourselves but she is Vietnamese and it honestly took about a year to prepare everything. I would never do that again myself. I would use an experienced pet ... Read More
No gas Motor bikes- what will it mean? by Dannyroc3
If Gas bikes are banned in major cities it would seem there would be a price drop in the second hand bike market.It seems like an unworkable venture but....
For me, living in Saigon my real only dislike is the pollution lately. I have no idea what percentage is caused by motorbikes but I would like some breathable air again. Tet has been the only somewhat normal air quality in the 60s but before it was ... Read More
Tax Issues If Deposit VND Cash Into A VN Citizens Bank Acct? by Aidan in HCMC
I want to deposit VND to the account of a Vietnam citizen, but I'm wondering whether a large(-ish) cash amount will result in the account holder being subjected to any sort of tax, and/or scrutiny. Any member with experience in such matters?I'm not ...
@PhuNinhTim Were you on a tourist visa, VEC or TRC? I am just curious. Did they give you the chance to collect your money or did they just close right away? I heard some stories from others online that said their account was locked but they could ... Read More
VN Stock market. by Dannyroc3
While discussing some stock market topics with someone, I was asked how the VN stock market works.Not that I would get involved but how it works for locals? Do they have the equiv of an S&P500? Can people just open an account on line?A related ...
One thing that would keep me from investing in VN stocks is the new law that has a 2% tax on the total sale (not gains). So if you buy 50k work of stock and then sell it at 51k you basically break even. If you buy at 50k and sell at 50k you lots a ... Read More
Traffic law question by It2VN
I am referring to pedestrian crossings (as they are called in the UK); the white stripes across the street or road where pedestrians should be able to have priority over vehicles for safe crossing to the other side, the vehicles giving way or ...
Im not sure if I will get hate for saying this or not. Yes the laws are supposed to allow pedestrians to cross at crosswalks but we also have to be aware of the fact probably 90% of the drivers do not know or do not care. I actually dont remember ... Read More
Pet Relocation from Melbourne to Ho Chi Minh City - Looking for Advice by KB Vu
Hi everyone,I’m trying to relocate my fur baby from Melbourne to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and I’d really appreciate any advice or recommendations.He’s a Labrador Retriever, around 35kg, 7.5 ~ 8 years old, and this would be our ...
I brought my dog a few years ago. We didnt use an agent but I wish we had. DO NOT try this on your own if you value your pets life. Please contact Saigon Pet Hospital in Thao Dien Ho Chi Minh City. They are horrible vets from personal experience and ... Read More
Tax Issues If Deposit VND Cash Into A VN Citizens Bank Acct? by Aidan in HCMC
I want to deposit VND to the account of a Vietnam citizen, but I'm wondering whether a large(-ish) cash amount will result in the account holder being subjected to any sort of tax, and/or scrutiny. Any member with experience in such matters?I'm not ...
My wife and I have passed back and forth on multiple occasions hundreds of millions of VND due to her account being hacked a few times. Somehow, someone had a fake old ID of hers and was using it to gain access and create other accounts. Hopefully ... Read More
Market price of house lease in Vietnam by regions by yoonkyoungsuh
Dear all,I'm trying to explore and understand 1 bedroom/ 2bedrooms housing lease cost(market average cost) per regions in Vietnam
I am currently living in a heavily Korean populated area of Ho Chi Minh City. If you are coming for work I am assuming you may be in District 7 or District 2. The prices vary widely but would also depend on the specific building and specific area. ... Read More
Schwab Accounts in Vietnam by GuestPoster954309
I just opened a Schwab Investment/Saving/Checking account in preparation to relocate - for good - to Vietnam. During a search of the forum, I noticed the threads are pretty old, anyone have incite on if Schwab is a dependable brokerage to use in ...
A number of people have mentioned locking their Schwab card between uses, how is that done? Like some other people, I keep a low cost US phone line to get messages. I had hoped that by turning on the WIFI CALLING feature in my phone settings, I ... Read More
Wise Validation by mitsmaak
Hi, Anyone had to deal with Wise's Address verification.I don't have any of the documents that they requested. Was wandering if anyone had heard of a workaround or method that is different than the standard options?
@jrharvey I get money out of my WISE account at ATMs in TP HCM pretty much every week. - @Lennerd Interesting and thanks. Ill give it a go again next time I'm back in the US. I could never get mine to work so i let it expire. Are you perhaps from ... Read More
Wise Validation by mitsmaak
Hi, Anyone had to deal with Wise's Address verification.I don't have any of the documents that they requested. Was wandering if anyone had heard of a workaround or method that is different than the standard options?
I was told that if I get a WISE account in Vietnam I wouldn't get an ATM card with the account. Thus, I was advised to get a WISE account in the USA, which I did. Last I checked the Wise ATM card was totally useless in Vietnam. I had it up until ... Read More
Banking ideas by callaway4000
Is there an app that is used in Vietnam to TAP the payment> is it safe. I know for small amounts it is cash but want to understand all the options to make things easier there? Thanks
The only tap to pay that I am aware of is Apply Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay which will link debit or credit cards. Its used around larger cities in some higher end restaurants and markets and malls but you wont buy street food with it. The rest ... Read More
Permanent Residency For Viet Kieu In Vietnam by VNdw7
Hi there, I'm hoping a US expat in Vietnam can help advise. My 90yr mom is Vietnamese but a US citizen from 1967 as she married my dad -an American GI. When my dad passed due to cancer in 2019 she went to VN on 5 yr visa to stay in her homeland as ...
Im curious if your mom is the same lady I met in Cambodia that went back to Maine to live in the US when she married her husband. She told us she was so cold she didnt leave the bed for weeks haha. Anyways I have a VEC as well and I leave the ... Read More
Rent and electricity increase by MarkinNam
Hi all, is anyone seeing huge increases in these areas? Eg; $550/ month to $750/ month AUD.
I would say our electricity bill has gone way up lately but its hard to really tell because my inlaws have been staying and they love to run the AC with the doors and windows wide open 😂. Read More
Settling in to life by MarkinNam
I know myself fairly well and can see making new friends my biggest hurdle. As much as I love the life there, nothing beats close friends to help. Does anyone have any advice for me on this point. I'll be staying in Bui Vein area to start off then ...
@MarkinNam Find something that you are really interested in. Join a club or group. You will naturally find friends. For example if you like fishing or jiu jitsu or whatnot. Read More
Can somebody help me understand this by lambieallan
I left Saigon to visit my fiance who lives approximately 200 kilometers West of Saigon in a very small town by stayed at a hotel by myself I was walking the street to get something to eat two police called me over I gave them ID they went to my ...
Were you possibly near a military base? Read More
Foreigner Citizenship by SteinNebraska
Hi all, long time since I posted. We are still in the US since March 2021. Have a boy who just turned 2 last week!Since the change in the law in July I have been thinking about getting citizenship for my boy and possibly for me. Probably more ...
Im considering it but waiting to see what the process is and let someone else go through it first haha. I THINK dual citizenship is only allowed with presidential approval and I dont know what the heck that means. I could be wrong but thats why Ive ... Read More
US licensed notary in Saigon by jrharvey
I know its a long shot but is anyone at all aware of a US registered notary living in Saigon. Im selling my home in the US. I know the US embassy is an option but I have closing documents that require a wet seal and notarization from both myself and ...
@LennerdYes consulate, not embassy. Sorry. @ajairon There were no appointments left for same day. The next available was a week later. I was able to get my wife in though after emailing the consulate and requesting her to be allowed in. My wife is a ... Read More
US licensed notary in Saigon by jrharvey
I know its a long shot but is anyone at all aware of a US registered notary living in Saigon. Im selling my home in the US. I know the US embassy is an option but I have closing documents that require a wet seal and notarization from both myself and ...
Hi all, so just an update here for anyone in the future. A couple of important things. The consulate did allow my wife to come in. They finally emailed me back really last minute and said she was ok to come in since she was required on the ... Read More
US licensed notary in Saigon by jrharvey
I know its a long shot but is anyone at all aware of a US registered notary living in Saigon. Im selling my home in the US. I know the US embassy is an option but I have closing documents that require a wet seal and notarization from both myself and ...
@OceanBeach92107 I appreciate the news good or bad. Thank you. Read More
US licensed notary in Saigon
I know its a long shot but is anyone at all aware of a US registered notary living in Saigon. Im selling my home in the US. I know the US embassy is an option but I have closing documents that require a wet seal and notarization from both myself and ... Read More
Temporarily resident card by Malcolmleitrim
I will be arriving in Vietnam soon, travelling on a 3 month visa as usual. I will spend a large part of my time this year living with my vietnamese girlfriend in her home, and she says I should have a temporary resident card. Does anyone know ...
@Malcolmleitrim You can register in someones private house but I believe it is up to the home owner to register you. Hotels just know more about how to do it where as your everyday homeowner doesnt. Read More
Building a house in Vietnam (Any good contractor recommendations) by mith7
We have land here in HCM and it's been a nightmare trying to find a reputable experienced contractor that's actually built houses without lying about all their experience. Has anyone had any good real-world experience building a house here in ...
I cant recomend anyone specific but I can say that in my adventures I learned a few things. We eventually settled on an apartment and rennovated it but spent almost a year looking at land to build a house. Start looking for architects, not just ... Read More
Bank account digitisation by MarkinNam
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87lfkLX7CRM Apparently this IS happening now, how will it affect those on tourist visas ?From my friend, it only affect tranactions over 10 million VND
Unfortunately I have heard of many Việt kiều that have had their bank accounts closed or the banks saying it will be closed if they dont personally fly back to keep it open. Some of them really arent able to leave the country they are in ... Read More
OMAD/IF/KETO by Friday with Mateo
Hi all,I was wondering if any members here are currently doing Intermittent fasting, one-meal-a-day or keto ... ???Back about 3.5 years ago, I quit all refined sugar products, processed food, and began IF/OMAD/KETO lifestyle.It was one of the most ...
Im 40 now and I've been low carb now for 20 years. I typically eat after 1pm and stop by 7. Different than keto since I eat higher amounts of protein but its been my saving grace since everyone in my family gets obese very easily even eating healthy ... Read More
Japanese encephalitis vaccine by MarkinNam
Japanese encephalitis. Has anyone had booster shot for this in Viet Nam. is it necessary? Thanks all
@MarkinNam Not bad. Back in the states the cheapest I could find was $400 USD. Read More
Japanese encephalitis vaccine by MarkinNam
Japanese encephalitis. Has anyone had booster shot for this in Viet Nam. is it necessary? Thanks all
I went to multiple vaccine clinics and could not find it in Saigon. If anyone knows where to get it I would also love to know. Also be aware of Dengue fever. My brother in laws best friend got Dengue and almost died. Its really bad along the ... Read More
Road safety in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Navigating roads and experiencing traffic in Vietnam as an expat can be a learning experience. We invite you to share your insights in order to help other expats and soon-to-be expats stay safe on the road in Vietnam, whether ...
Q- Are traffic rules strictly respected or enforced in Vietnam?A- Its getting better but traditionally I still feel like it has a long ways to go. For example my pregnant wife while walking across a one way street got side swiped by a grab driver ... Read More
New Vietnamese Citizenship Laws For Viet Kieu AND Foreigner Spouses by OceanBeach92107
This is pretty huge. Major changes in the law will now make it much easier for Việt Kiều to regain citizenship while also opening the door to foreigner spouses of Vietnamese citizens, dropping most of the previous restrictions such as ...
I had read somewhere (can't find the source just now,I'll look later) that in the unfortunate event a dual-citizen finds themselves on the wrong side of the law in Vietnam, that access to the consular services of one's original country could ... Read More
New Vietnamese Citizenship Laws For Viet Kieu AND Foreigner Spouses by OceanBeach92107
This is pretty huge. Major changes in the law will now make it much easier for Việt Kiều to regain citizenship while also opening the door to foreigner spouses of Vietnamese citizens, dropping most of the previous restrictions such as ...
@Jackjones85 no need to update your name in your country of origin, due to two explicit reasons: 1) You will not longer be a citizen in your original country; or, if the VN President allow you to keep your first citizenship, your VN ID/Passport ... Read More
New Vietnamese Citizenship Laws For Viet Kieu AND Foreigner Spouses by OceanBeach92107
This is pretty huge. Major changes in the law will now make it much easier for Việt Kiều to regain citizenship while also opening the door to foreigner spouses of Vietnamese citizens, dropping most of the previous restrictions such as ...
@isherenow Vietnamese diaspora can keep their foreign name when gaining citizenshipArent you required to have at least PART of your name as a traditional Vietnamese name under the new legislation? Like add or replace a middle name? I think the ... Read More
Dog as pet in Hanoi by Teacher On Duty
Hi everyone,I'm considering relocating to Hanoi and would love to bring my dog with me. However, I'm a bit concerned about safety—especially after hearing stories about pet theft and the risk of dogs being stolen and sold.Does anyone have ...
I was waiting to see if anyone else was going to respond specifically from Hanoi but I can chime in based on my experience living in Saigon. I brought my dog when she was 14 years old. I knew it was the end of her life and I wanted her with me at ... Read More
Most common scams in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Vietnam as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online traps or ...
@Cheryl The only way I know to avoid this is to have a Vietnamese bank and get the electric company account number and it will look up what is owed on the electric. Read More
Most common scams in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Vietnam as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online traps or ...
Another one that I have heard a few times (never happened to me) but is also common for Vietnamese. You rent an apartment and your there for a few days or weeks and all of a sudden the power cuts off. Come to find out the electric company cut off ... Read More
How do I stop a future marriage ? by Doc4Marines
How do I stop a fraudulent future marriage between a male US citizen and a female Vietnamese person? I happen to know the US male citizen, and he is committing fraud against the US court system and against this woman.The man is a convicted ...
USCIC has a fraud prevention department and normal everyday people can contact them. You can just google USCIS report fraud. Agree with OB though that you better know for sure. Personally dont you think it wiser to contact the woman anonymously ... Read More
Most common scams in Vietnam by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Vietnam as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online traps or ...
Lots of hotel/resort scams right now. There is an elaborate scheme all over Vietnam that fake websites, fake facebook and istagram pages are popping up mirroring hotels and resorts all over. Ive mentioned here before that reserving a hotel or resort ... Read More
Little Visa confusion, how does this work? by Dannyroc3
As I get near the end of my last visa, I thought it wouldn’t be too much more money , and it might be interesting to do a trip to Bangkok and basically do a group tour, which was originally priced it around 6 million. (X two.)The last time I ...
From my experience the "Tours" often consist of hopping around to different companies selling things and the tour guides heavily pushing people to buy stuff. There was a story not that long ago of one of the guides abandoning their tour for not ... Read More
Is Da Nang, Vietnam The New Bali? by OceanBeach92107
Helen Zhao (formerly a reporter/producer with CNBC network in the USA) has done a very good job of covering recent developments & trends here in Đà Nẵng with her new YouTube report. https://youtu.be/AAhAbNhEOY4
Great video and I thought the feedback on how to give back to the community was great. Read More
LCL (Less then Container) shipping from LA to Vietnam by Skydive2063
Good day,Hello everyone! My name is Kurt, I'm moving to Vietnam (Da Nang to start). We are so excited! I was hoping to hear from anyone having shipped their personal goods by sea, from Port of Long Beach or Los Angeles to Vietnam. I would be ...
I second what OB said about the timeframe your "allowed" to legally ship stuff with the right visa and dont listen to what others say about "oh its ok you can ship no problem". Im on a VEC which does NOT give you the right to work and thought I ... Read More
What are Vietnamese workers like as people? by Rudi2255477
Hello,I am planning to open a small factory in the Asian region and would like to learn more about what Vietnamese people are like.How do they generally behave or perform as workers?In comparison to Chinese workers, what are the main differences in ...
@rogergarinmichaud I would say this sums up the issues I have had as well. Their enthusiasm is through the roof but its difficult to know what can and cannot be done or what is realistic because they say yes to everything. Read More
International School Tuition As High As ₫1 BILLION VN by OceanBeach92107
"Vietnam int’l school tuition fees near $38,515 for 2025–26 school year""Many international schools in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have announced tuition fee increases for the 2025-26 academic year, with some reaching nearly VND1 billion ...
No Bueno as me and the wife are looking to have a child soon. I gave up on the idea of international schools a while ago. Read More
Taxi Options at Tan Son Nhat Airport - Any Recommendations by Contem talk
Hello everyone,I recently experienced some difficulty getting a taxi or Grab ride immediately upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport. After booking a Grab, the driver asked me to walk to the parking lot, which was a bit inconvenient—especially ...
I prefer Xanh taxi. They are nicer and drive much smoother "typically but not always". Cars usually smell nice too instead of a musty old toyota lol. Read More
Best SIM or Internet Option for Big Downloads While Traveling Vietnam? by MaxG96
Hey everyone! 👋I’m a video editor and I’ll be traveling around Vietnam, mostly in Gia Lai, Bình Thuận, and Long An. I often need to download 10-20GB+ files daily, so I’m looking for fast and reliable internet ...
@MaxG96 I dont know the name of the package. They gave me a bunch of options and I picked one of the unlimited plans they had. Price may be higher now as I think thats how it generally works. Read More
Best SIM or Internet Option for Big Downloads While Traveling Vietnam? by MaxG96
Hey everyone! 👋I’m a video editor and I’ll be traveling around Vietnam, mostly in Gia Lai, Bình Thuận, and Long An. I often need to download 10-20GB+ files daily, so I’m looking for fast and reliable internet ...
I have an UNLIMITED DATA Viettel prepaid plan. Its 160k a month. Its pretty much data only however I can get and make calls. I can get texts but cannot send. Viettel is pretty much everywhere in Vietnam. 5G in all cities and in the country service ... Read More
A new visa - Is this real ? by MarkinNam
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xr5r3OsziH0 Is this a joke or for real,,,,,,,,,Maybe.
This guy has a lot of helpful information about Vietnam but uses a lot of clickbait titles to grab attention. Its part of the game with youtube so I get it. I do watch his videos regularly though. I would also caution against using his legal ... Read More
Scooter options by MarkinNam
As most of us are a little larger than the locals, what make and model motor bikes are you riding and why ?? cheers
I agree. Im a fairly small American however even an Airblade 160 is just so small for me. I would say a Honda SH is a good decent size. A lot of foreigners like the XMax. I really like the Honda ADV but its not native to Vietnam. A lot of Korean ... Read More
Can anyone recomend an experienced CPA that deals with US expat taxes by jrharvey
I really hate that I even have to ask this on a forum but Im not exagerating that I have reached out to over 50 CPAs from all over and I cant find anyone willing to assist someone living overseas. The very few that actually reply all say its too ...
I did find a CPA in the US but if your not living abroad it may not be the right CPA for you. Read More
Vietnam, a welcoming destination to expats? by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in Vietnam, like every new environment, can feel like stepping into the unknown and brings many questions: how will it go, how to integrate successfully, etc. To help smooth this transition, we invite you to share your ...
What was your first impression when you arrived?Been to many places but Vietnam truly was one of the first places that really felt different. Very raw, very unfiltered. I loved it. Thats the best way I know to describe it.Did you face any challenges ... Read More
Buying land in Vietnam by lambieallan
Can anyone help me my wife who was voting to me wants to buy a block of land in her hometown not very expensive she says she will do the paperwork but what I not be better off getting a lawyer to do this any help appreciated
@Aidan in HCMCI think it means they held a vote which resulted in a clear 1 - 1 majority in her favour. Sounds about right lol Read More
What are Vietnamese workers like as people? by Rudi2255477
Hello,I am planning to open a small factory in the Asian region and would like to learn more about what Vietnamese people are like.How do they generally behave or perform as workers?In comparison to Chinese workers, what are the main differences in ...
From my experience hiring one huge cultural difference I see is just generally such a chill attitude and relaxed thinking about time and deadlines. Im an architect and my wife and I run an architecture firm between the two of us. We have tried to ... Read More
Is Booking.com full of scammers in VN? by Dannyroc3
I have used BOOKING for many years and in several countries with a 95% satisfaction.IN VN I have used it with pretty good results as well, though I did take a room in Siagon where they gave me a much lesser room that not only didn't match the room ...
Yes unfortunately this is a thing and just something to watch out for. This is not only just a thing on booking but all sites. Its quite often they will show photos of rooms that are unavailable or flat out dont exist and put you in a completely ... Read More
Fake products in VN by Dannyroc3
The subject of fake products is something I run into a lot.My GF swears everything from cosmetics to Hershey bars are fake. I was thinking of buying a Bluetooth speaker. but wonder if they are just copies.When I look on Lazada, for a MArshall BT ...
I just ran into this exact thing. My favorite headphones are the Sony XB-400 which I was able to buy directly from the sony store in District 1 HCMC. They recently discontinued and I needed a new pair so I ordered online. Full price and the add said ... Read More
One way flight into VN by Svho
Anyone have first hand experience flying into VN with one way ticket into the country? Does the government require a return flight or to another destination? I have been there 3 times and a native from Danang. Looking to make a move ...
I agree Ive never had a problem with a one way ticket into the country on my VEC but sometimes I have to argue with the airline a bit. Read More
Severe Traffic Police Crackdown? by expat97
Is anyone aware of/heard of a massive traffic police crack-down?My wife reports that the traffic police all over Vietnam have started about 1 week or so ago totally MASSIVE crack-down with huge fines.Fines for almost everything (i can only ope that ...
Please take this with a pinch of salt. I am foreseeing a domino effect in development, you should be able to put them in order accordingly: Ruthless traffic law enforcement, delivery riders month-to-date earnings is reset to 0 or negative in one ... Read More
Bait & Switch Rental Listings in Vietnam by OceanBeach92107
I thought I would start this thread, since bait and switch in hotel condominium and apartment and house renting listings is so very common here. I thought of it because I am assisting a friend from the United States in obtaining a place to live here ...
Ill start with probably the scarriest story of the thread. Hopefully nothing gets worse than this. My wife and I were looking for an apartment and we found one that looked modern, clean and a good price. My wife did all communication so we wouldnt ... Read More
Severe Traffic Police Crackdown? by expat97
Is anyone aware of/heard of a massive traffic police crack-down?My wife reports that the traffic police all over Vietnam have started about 1 week or so ago totally MASSIVE crack-down with huge fines.Fines for almost everything (i can only ope that ...
Unfortunately Vietnam has the habit of going from the wild west to extremely strict overnight. Any time a rule is enacted or enforced its complete chaos. The rules are necessary because things have been out of hand for way too long however there ... Read More
Can anyone recomend an experienced CPA that deals with US expat taxes
I really hate that I even have to ask this on a forum but Im not exagerating that I have reached out to over 50 CPAs from all over and I cant find anyone willing to assist someone living overseas. The very few that actually reply all say its too ... Read More
Shipping within Vietnam by kevinodprobate
I’m wanting to get to Da Nang from Saigon, but my bag exceeds the 44lb limit so airline wants $150 extra. Is there a good, reasonable way to ship a package weighing less than 25kg between these two cities?
Most airlines allow 23kg which is about 50lbs. If your bag is actually 54lbs can you buy a small tote or duffel and throw the extra 4lbs in there?. Read More
Bringing pets into Vietnam by bindlestiffblues
hey ya'll, my name is eric. me and my partner jessica are planning to move to da nang this year. we have two cats and one dog. as far as i can tell, we are each allowed to bring two animals into vietnam without an import license. am i understanding ...
I brought my dog here 2 years ago. Its extremely important to follow every rule exactly. Once you bring them keep in mind its very, very difficult to take back depending on what country. I am from the US and I didnt realize that after 6 months ... Read More
Moving to Vietnam for my semi-retirement by mmain
Hi everyone, my name is Martin, and recently moved to Vietnam, near Vinh Yen a few weeks ago. My wife and daughter are Vietnamese citizens, so I am here on a Visa Exemption, which was fine for when we lived in the UAE and just visiting periodically, ...
Just a heads up Vietnam taxes you on WORLD WIDE income. I am finding this out the hard way. Doesnt matter where the money comes from, what you did, what bank it went into. Your taxed in Vietnam for that income at Vietnams rates if you spend more ... Read More
Experiencing ageism from young expats by AlbertDifi
Hello. I've lived off and on in Vietnam for 15 years and thought I'd finally post about an odd phenomenon I have encountered in the past five years in HCM, That is, not even receiving a responding hello from young expats. They remain silent, do not ...
There could be a couple of things going on here. #1 you have to understand there are expats from all over the world that may or may not speak your language. They may look just like you but from a country where english is not that great. #2 A lot of ... Read More
Please, can I rent a boat without a license in Phu Quoc? by Alalba Alba
Hi, We are visiting the island only for 6 days…i don’t enjoy soaking up the sun without much to do and Phu Quoc doesnt scream adventure to me…so If I am going, I’d like to rent a boat, without a captain…thanks for ...
Not sure about renting a boat without a captain but I can say my wife and I hired a captain and boat to pretty much give use a totally custom tour of the island for snorkeling, fishing, island hopping and everything we wanted to do. It was very ... Read More
Dual sim card phones by Dannyroc3
When I return home, I plan to get a newer phone. If I get one that takes 2 sim cards would I be able to have a local number in NV and use the service of my US provider? I am reluctant to let me low cost US service go as I dont want to lose the ...
I have the galaxy s24 Ultra which is dual sim but I dont actually use the 2nd sim slot. I converted my T-Mobile plan back home to an E Sim and I have my Viettel sim card in the physical sim slot. I use both sims at the same time. By default I have ... Read More
How do you find out if you are blacklisted in Vietnam? by while90
I have been going back and forth from Japan to Vietnam but on my last trip in December I caught coronavirus and had to overstay my allotted two weeks as a tourist I overstayed by 2 days and had to pay a fine.I want to return as usual this week but I ...
@John777111 I dont think you would be allowed on a plane in the first place without a proper visa. Read More
Weirdness at the Moc Bai border by jrharvey
Im just putting this out there for others just in case it hasnt been mentioned before. Not sure if this is a new thing or if its common but its just my experience. Did a border run with mostly Viet Kieu from America on a bus and when we crossed the ...
We did take a bus through an agent but Im on a VEC so no VN E Visa. Had an E Visa to get into Cambodia, not visa on arrival. Im pretty sure they knew we were all there for a visa extension in VN but the plan was to stay a night in Cambodia ... Read More
Weirdness at the Moc Bai border by jrharvey
Im just putting this out there for others just in case it hasnt been mentioned before. Not sure if this is a new thing or if its common but its just my experience. Did a border run with mostly Viet Kieu from America on a bus and when we crossed the ...
@Aidan in HCMC The Cambodian officers were the ones that kept the passports. Vietnam let us through and Cambodia kept everyones. Just edited my post to clarify. Read More
Weirdness at the Moc Bai border
Im just putting this out there for others just in case it hasnt been mentioned before. Not sure if this is a new thing or if its common but its just my experience. Did a border run with mostly Viet Kieu from America on a bus and when we crossed the ... Read More
Legally Recognized Driver's License(s) for Vietnam by Aidan in HCMC
As a tourist/visitor to Vietnam to legally drive a car, or to legally ride a motorbike with an engine displacement over 50cc, you are required to hold a valid driver's license which is recognized in Vietnam. Motorbikes under 50cc require no ...
@Aidan in HCMC Thats probably true. Everyone I know with a big bike had to go through the VN written test so that makes sense. Read More
Legally Recognized Driver's License(s) for Vietnam by Aidan in HCMC
As a tourist/visitor to Vietnam to legally drive a car, or to legally ride a motorbike with an engine displacement over 50cc, you are required to hold a valid driver's license which is recognized in Vietnam. Motorbikes under 50cc require no ...
@Haarp You can CONVERT your existing license to a VN license IF you already have a motorbike endorsement in your home country without any kind of test. It expires when your visa expires. It also takes about 2 weeks to get your license back ... Read More
US Military Bases Abroad by Dannyroc3
Because there are so many foreign military bases, stations, posts, etc (700-8000) I wondered if anyone has either shopped at or found any benefit from those bases that are not to far off.I have some base privileges, and if I do a visa run to the ...
@jrharvey I think I went to their website but it had very little inventory posted. -@Dannyroc3You cant trust any actual website here unless its a really big brand. It really depends on what your looking for. I have found that shop to have more stuff ... Read More
US Military Bases Abroad by Dannyroc3
Because there are so many foreign military bases, stations, posts, etc (700-8000) I wondered if anyone has either shopped at or found any benefit from those bases that are not to far off.I have some base privileges, and if I do a visa run to the ...
Phương Hà Shop in district 1 also has a lot of random hard to get foreign food stuff. Really depends on what your specifically looking for. Read More
Bank account for US citizen married to a Vietnamese?? by AlbertDifi
Even though I have a TRC because of marriage, I cannot have my own bank account. I have heard conflicting info and hope someone here can clarify. She has to put my money in her name with me as an authority which one bank said would authorize me to ...
Edit again.... You need more than 6 months to be allowed a savings account. 6 months or less only gets you a spending account. Read More
Bank account for US citizen married to a Vietnamese?? by AlbertDifi
Even though I have a TRC because of marriage, I cannot have my own bank account. I have heard conflicting info and hope someone here can clarify. She has to put my money in her name with me as an authority which one bank said would authorize me to ...
Did the law change recently to not allow 6 month visas? I thought it was 3 month minimum visa to open a bank account but maybe it changed? Either way I totally understand there is a big difference between the visa exemption and the TRC. All I was ... Read More
Bank account for US citizen married to a Vietnamese?? by AlbertDifi
Even though I have a TRC because of marriage, I cannot have my own bank account. I have heard conflicting info and hope someone here can clarify. She has to put my money in her name with me as an authority which one bank said would authorize me to ...
Theoretically you should be allowed your own bank account. There may be other things getting in the way but foreigners with a TRC are allowed to open an account. Im married and my personal issue in my situation and why I was getting denied was ... Read More
Motorbikes and crime by Dannyroc3
So we have moved into a new place with both a roll-up door and a passage door next to it.Last night my GF was worried that we did not bring the bike in the house.It seems unlikely anyone would go to such lengths to steal her Motorbike. Is she right ...
@jrharvey Thanks for your comments. The reason I feel she might be overreacting on the likelihood of theft is because the bike is parked inside of a gated carport-type area. For someone to get to it they would need first to scale my direct ... Read More
Motorbikes and crime by Dannyroc3
So we have moved into a new place with both a roll-up door and a passage door next to it.Last night my GF was worried that we did not bring the bike in the house.It seems unlikely anyone would go to such lengths to steal her Motorbike. Is she right ...
Motorbike theft is decently common. 2 guys pull up in a truck, load it up and its gone in less than 1 minute. If the head is locked they just pick it up. Dont leave it outside. Trust your GF on this. I do agree Vietnam is extremely safe but no ... Read More
First time using the ATM's in VN. by Dannyroc3
So today was my first time to use the ATM and it was with a little difficulty.The first ATM had a sign saying only VISA cards from a VN back would work.The second one (Agri- something) allowed me to sign in but when I put in 3 mil. withdraw (rather ...
@Aidan in HCMCWow good call. Ive had my ATM card denied many times for no good reason and never even thought to check if funds were taken out. I need to remember to check this in the future. Thanks for the heads up. Read More
How to calculate exchange by Dannyroc3
The exchange rate is so lopsided I need a easy way to calculate.In other countries I could round off and get a close calculation in my head but I am lost in VNWhats the best way on a calculator or other wise to get a rough conversion?
So this just got really weird.@Dannyroc3 To be honest this all sounds like GREEN flags here. Read More
How to calculate exchange by Dannyroc3
The exchange rate is so lopsided I need a easy way to calculate.In other countries I could round off and get a close calculation in my head but I am lost in VNWhats the best way on a calculator or other wise to get a rough conversion?
25K about $1250k about $10500k about $20Thats all I think. Read More
Declaration of Temporary Residence Address Post Arrival in Vietnam by sd1305
Is this required/practiced? I read everywhere that the hotel/landlord is supposed to register the foreigner but no one i know who has been to Vietnam has registered?
Thank you both. The online portal seems like a good step. I know the old way of having to go down to the police station always ended up costing extra coffee money so anything they can add online and straight forward helps. Read More
Declaration of Temporary Residence Address Post Arrival in Vietnam by sd1305
Is this required/practiced? I read everywhere that the hotel/landlord is supposed to register the foreigner but no one i know who has been to Vietnam has registered?
Hopefully not too off topic but this has me wondering now that my wife and I are about to move into a new home we now own in a month or so. Do I have to register myself in my own home? Does my wife have to register me? Read More
Determining Name Registered as Having "Land Rights Use" by Aidan in HCMC
Anyone know where one would go to determine the name of the registered land rights user for a property in Vietnam?Is there a registry in each province, or is it down to the district level? Or...?Though my inquiry is regarding a piece of property I'm ...
My wife and I just went through the process of buying a property in Saigon. I can say we had to go through 6 months and a lot of crap to find something without red flags and problems. We hired an attourney that was recomended by our current landlord ... Read More
ZERO Blood Alcohol Allowed While Driving by OceanBeach92107
I can't find any of the various threads where this topic has been discussed, but foreigners often broach the subject by saying that, certainly they can get away with one or two beers and still be allowed to drive here. The national Assembly has made ...
One of those posts was mine. Just to clarify I dont think I asked because I wanted to drive around drunk. I asked because I couldnt find the law and as an american not knowing the law in vietnam and only hearing rumors I just wanted to confirm. The ... Read More
beenie helmet by GuestPoster378
Ive got a tiny beenie biker helmet probably not legal , but like most scofflaw countries people wear hardhats, bicycle helmets potsn pans , icecream buckets backwards helmets or just no helmet at all. Im sure 5 bucks to the cops cures any disdain ...
@Luckydratsab Just ride a 50cc which does not require a license until you can actually get your license. Ive been pulled over 3 times now by the police in Saigon just the past 5 months so it really does happen. All just document checks. Never got ... Read More
Owner's Manual New Motorbikes by Aidan in HCMC
Bought my second new bike today. The first bike is a Honda XR150-L, today's purchase is a Honda Airblade Black Edition.In both cases I was not given an owner's manual. When I purchased the XR150-L, I was told by the dealer that the gov't agency ...
I was told something similar when i bought my Datbike Weaver++ but they also have an app that connects to the bike and it has a built in owners manual in the app (VN and English).On a side note I may also get an airblade 160 just because Vietnam is ... Read More
Exchange Rate by VinnyVincent
Hi allWhich bank in Vietnam give the best exchange rate in transferring money from one country to another.For example I am from the UK I will be staying in Vietnam for a few months, so I will open up a Vietnam bank account and we'll be transferring ...
If your only here a few months it seems really unnecessary to open up a bank account here. Do you have any really trusted friends? If so probably the best route would be to use Wise to transfer to a friend who gives you cash or to your future VN ... Read More
Car question by qnbui
Not sure when I'll muster up enough courage to drive a car in VN after moving to VN but I've always read or heard that car in VN are 2-3x more expensive than you would buy in the US due to the import taxes levied on them. So what about the Vinfast ...
@qnbui I said the same thing but aparently they are popular here. Read More