mtgmike
American expat in Vietnam
Forum posts
150
Contacts
3
About me
American
Lives in Ho Chi Minh City
Registration: 23 February 2013
Verifying Identity in Vietnam for Banks, Government Portals? by mtgmike
I'm a U.S. Citizen. for more than a decade I've had no trouble verifying my ID and getting into my accounts and portals for government things like the IRS or my bank. Now with AI, I don't know how to do it anymore.I tried using ID Me today to get ...
Thanks for the tips. It looks like it matters a lot where we are from. I've come up with some plans.A lot of US expats are using Tello. It's US phone servicer that allows calls and sms over Wi-Fi internationally. It requires a US unlocked phone. ... Read More
Verifying Identity in Vietnam for Banks, Government Portals? by mtgmike
I'm a U.S. Citizen. for more than a decade I've had no trouble verifying my ID and getting into my accounts and portals for government things like the IRS or my bank. Now with AI, I don't know how to do it anymore.I tried using ID Me today to get ...
Thanks Ocean Beach. Does your US T-Mobile work here in Vietnam? They send codes direct to the phone for a lot of stuff now. Today when I did my-ID to get into the IRS it wanted me to send photos of my documents and take a selfie direct from a ... Read More
Verifying Identity in Vietnam for Banks, Government Portals?
I'm a U.S. Citizen. for more than a decade I've had no trouble verifying my ID and getting into my accounts and portals for government things like the IRS or my bank. Now with AI, I don't know how to do it anymore.I tried using ID Me today to get ... Read More
VIETNAMESE FAMILY LAW ACT by Aidan in HCMC
For those unfamiliar with this legislation, here for your perusal are the particulars.Read it well.(This post was prompted by the enquiry of another member on a recent thread)
I'm skeptical. Do spouses under 27 have to do the mandatory military service immediately after obtaining citizenship? Read More
SOME SIGNS OF THE TIMES IN VIETNAM by goodolboy
https://e.vnexpress.net/news/food/vietnamese-man-revealed-as-buyer-of-worlds-largest-whisky-bottle-for-1-4m-4648579.html?fbclid=IwAR1tB1Xl9_9jNDGmLEc5mp2goiZoq_q6jPnlOi0cwXy1q04MRXkPpcg4FuI
Has tattooing always been as prevalent with VN ladies as it is now? Even 6-7 years ago it didn't seem as common. I do remember back then several conservative VN frowning on the idea of ladies being inked. -@Aidan in HCMCI've been here ... Read More
Question About Spousal Exemption from Work Permit Exemption
I'm trying to get paperwork set up properly in compliance with Vietnamese labor laws to do work for my wife's company. We are using a paid service to submit the application to the government.At the bottom of this message I've posted some Vietnamese ... Read More
Non-Ice Vape Juice in HCMC?
Anyone know a store that still sell vape juice with nicotine in any fruit flavors that aren't icy, iced, or menthol? Read More
Visa Entry for married spouse by peceandtranquilityforme
Following our marriage (male US citizen and female Vietnamese citizen) in Thailand, how much should a marriage visa (approximate) cost be to re-enter Vietnam? We have been quoted $700 USD. Is this a fair amount for this type of visa or less or more? ...
Are they allowing spouses to enter Vietnam now? I thought the borders were still closed, and family re-unification is not one of the exemptions to the border closure running since March 2020. Read More
Water Coming Up Floor Drain During Rain by mtgmike
The past two times it rained heavy, water came up the drain on the ground floor, a lot of it. We've been renting a house for a few years with no problem. Nobody else seems to be having a problem around us, and our water goes down the drain ...
We had some plumbers come today. They found a bunch of black cement in the pipe under the bathroom floor drain, it's the same kind of cement from the repairs done on the roof earlier this year. Looks like they came down the drain pipe from the ... Read More
Water Coming Up Floor Drain During Rain by mtgmike
The past two times it rained heavy, water came up the drain on the ground floor, a lot of it. We've been renting a house for a few years with no problem. Nobody else seems to be having a problem around us, and our water goes down the drain ...
Thanks for the detailed reply. Yeah there is an outdoor terrace on the second floor. We've also had leaks in the roof, some work was done up on top of the house earlier this year, resealing it, that area is flat. Maybe there is a problem up ... Read More
Water Coming Up Floor Drain During Rain
The past two times it rained heavy, water came up the drain on the ground floor, a lot of it. We've been renting a house for a few years with no problem. Nobody else seems to be having a problem around us, and our water goes down the drain ... Read More
DAILY LIFE IN VIETNAM DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC 2020-2021 by goodolboy
Day 4 self imposed isolation in apartment :- Today the lock down seems to be taking effect Q 12 Tan Thoi Nhat . All big coffee shops, BBQ etc now closed, Some small coffee shops & street eating places still open. Most Supermarkets & street ...
My family told me to get an app called PC Covid to get a green QR code showing vaccination status. When I attempt to set it up on my phone it takes me to a "notification access" screen a giant popup that says: "!DANGER!" Read ... Read More
DAILY LIFE IN VIETNAM DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC 2020-2021 by goodolboy
Day 4 self imposed isolation in apartment :- Today the lock down seems to be taking effect Q 12 Tan Thoi Nhat . All big coffee shops, BBQ etc now closed, Some small coffee shops & street eating places still open. Most Supermarkets & street ...
My family told me to get an app called PC Covid to get a green QR code showing vaccination status. When I attempt to set it up on my phone it takes me to a "notification access" screen a giant popup that says: "!DANGER!" Read ... Read More
DAILY LIFE IN VIETNAM DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC 2020-2021 by goodolboy
Day 4 self imposed isolation in apartment :- Today the lock down seems to be taking effect Q 12 Tan Thoi Nhat . All big coffee shops, BBQ etc now closed, Some small coffee shops & street eating places still open. Most Supermarkets & street ...
latest covid plan At the same time, authorities should soon study the regulations to apply vaccination certificates to life, such as traveling, using public services...There's no room in my Tet funds to cover certificates to life. Read More
DAILY LIFE IN VIETNAM DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC 2020-2021 by goodolboy
Day 4 self imposed isolation in apartment :- Today the lock down seems to be taking effect Q 12 Tan Thoi Nhat . All big coffee shops, BBQ etc now closed, Some small coffee shops & street eating places still open. Most Supermarkets & street ...
If this article is correct, whether or not you can get deliveries depends on what district you live in. Shippers to halt services in eight HCMC ... Read More
astrazenica vaccine query by andlum777
astrazenica vaccine being rolled out to some schools-any thoughts on it-have heard dubious side effects.
My ward in Go Vap got vaccinated with Astrazenaca today, including my wife and myself. There were no issues with me being a foreigner. There was no choice of vaccine. With regards to side effects, here's something from the Australian ... Read More
DAILY LIFE IN VIETNAM DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC 2020-2021 by goodolboy
Day 4 self imposed isolation in apartment :- Today the lock down seems to be taking effect Q 12 Tan Thoi Nhat . All big coffee shops, BBQ etc now closed, Some small coffee shops & street eating places still open. Most Supermarkets & street ...
I developed a tooth infection that is worsening, out in Go Vap, HCMC. The nearby clinic I typically use is closed. I found an open clinic in another district. What transport services are open right now? If I find transport, what is needed to ... Read More
Shocking but true: Internet slows with undersea cable disruptions by jayrozzetti23
Just in case you're wondering... [quote]Internet connection can slow down in Vietnam as two international undersea internet cables are either undergoing maintenance or suffering other disruptions. The Asia Pacific Gateway (APG) cable has been ...
https://tuoitrenews.vn/news/society/20210720/error-occurs-on-vietnams-submarine-cable-one-week-after-repair/62167.html "Tuesday, July 20, 2021, 16:12 GMT 7 Another error has been detected along one of Vietnam’s major submarine cable ... Read More
DAILY LIFE IN VIETNAM DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC 2020-2021 by goodolboy
Day 4 self imposed isolation in apartment :- Today the lock down seems to be taking effect Q 12 Tan Thoi Nhat . All big coffee shops, BBQ etc now closed, Some small coffee shops & street eating places still open. Most Supermarkets & street ...
There was a case detected in our hem. We were told to send one resident per house within the hem for testing again today, street by street within the hem. This time they did the collection procedure inside the hem itself, smaller scale than ... Read More
French support for it's citizens COVID 19 by Budman1
I read this: https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/france-announces-covid-19-vaccination-program-for-citizens-in-vietnam-4309056.html Then this: The United States Government does not plan to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to private U.S. citizens ...
I disagree that there are bad intentions behind the French policy, or that it's harmful to Vietnamese citizens, I think it's actually helpful to both French and Vietnamese citizens. The French government decided to take on the cost and ... Read More
Overseas Internet Traffic by Jlgarbutt
Anyone else having problems accessing overseas sites tonight? Was fine up until 7pm here, bow logging onto to sites i rely on is taking ages
As of late my internet is usually okay until around 7-8pm, then it slows for few couple hours, then it gets faster again. https://en.vietnamplus.vn/repairs-to-undersea-cable-scheduled-to-complete-on-july-7/203490.vnp The cable repair was supposed ... Read More
Interested in a free Covid vaccine like Moderna? by PTTL
Hello everyone, USA just sent Vietnam 2 millions Moderna vaccine: https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/us-sends-vietnam-2-million-covid-vaccine-doses-4305076.html I checked the US Embassy website and it said we're on our own when it comes to ...
When they post for registrations in your area are foreigners supposed to register? Apparently they are rolling out some vaccines in pandemic areas.If the registration is vaccination, then it's open to both foreigners and locals. You're not ... Read More
Interested in a free Covid vaccine like Moderna? by PTTL
Hello everyone, USA just sent Vietnam 2 millions Moderna vaccine: https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/us-sends-vietnam-2-million-covid-vaccine-doses-4305076.html I checked the US Embassy website and it said we're on our own when it comes to ...
When they post for registrations in your area are foreigners supposed to register? Apparently they are rolling out some vaccines in pandemic areas. Read More
DAILY LIFE IN VIETNAM DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC 2020-2021 by goodolboy
Day 4 self imposed isolation in apartment :- Today the lock down seems to be taking effect Q 12 Tan Thoi Nhat . All big coffee shops, BBQ etc now closed, Some small coffee shops & street eating places still open. Most Supermarkets & street ...
https://vietnamnews.vn/society/988642/hcm-city-to-ensure-food-supply-medical-treatment-during-lockdown-stops-takeaway-services.html I'm hearing takeaway is also being suspended. Apparently you can still order food delivery from the ... Read More
DAILY LIFE IN VIETNAM DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC 2020-2021 by goodolboy
Day 4 self imposed isolation in apartment :- Today the lock down seems to be taking effect Q 12 Tan Thoi Nhat . All big coffee shops, BBQ etc now closed, Some small coffee shops & street eating places still open. Most Supermarkets & street ...
Someone the poorly organised mass testing last week we have now been informed that have positive test results in one block (Lexington E) which is mainly shops and offices. These workers are often seen buying snacks for vinmart for lunch and eating ... Read More
DAILY LIFE IN VIETNAM DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC 2020-2021 by goodolboy
Day 4 self imposed isolation in apartment :- Today the lock down seems to be taking effect Q 12 Tan Thoi Nhat . All big coffee shops, BBQ etc now closed, Some small coffee shops & street eating places still open. Most Supermarkets & street ...
Just been reading there could be stricter controls coming soon. With growing numbers if cases reported all over the city Oddly yesterday they go ahead with a mass testing center in D8 that reportedly had thousands people turn up toI'm in Go ... Read More
COVID 19 (CORONA VIRUS) UPDATES FOR ALL NATIONALITIES & STATUS by goodolboy
Was not to sure exactly where to post this link so started a new topic, most of us not in this situation but some might be! https://www.facebook.com/ukinvietnam/photos/a.388627835543/10157163891370544/?type=3
You can try to keep extending tourist visas, but one of the new rules is that you're going to have to check in with immigration once a month, regardless of the length of your Visa.Does this apply only to tourist visas, or to TRC's as well? ... Read More
COVID 19 (CORONA VIRUS) UPDATES FOR ALL NATIONALITIES & STATUS by goodolboy
Was not to sure exactly where to post this link so started a new topic, most of us not in this situation but some might be! https://www.facebook.com/ukinvietnam/photos/a.388627835543/10157163891370544/?type=3
This is getting frustrating!!! Is / Are affected countries especially Vietnam ever going to open there borders again to tourists??? I'm so looking forward to moving to Vietnam to retire and not have to work to be able to afford food and ... Read More
COVID 19 (CORONA VIRUS) UPDATES FOR ALL NATIONALITIES & STATUS by goodolboy
Was not to sure exactly where to post this link so started a new topic, most of us not in this situation but some might be! https://www.facebook.com/ukinvietnam/photos/a.388627835543/10157163891370544/?type=3
We're suddenly having trouble getting food supplies from our usual supermarket sources as well. Read More
Covid testing in HCMC? by Bangkokian1
Hi everyone -- As part of travel regulations, I need to get a Covid test within 72 hours of my flight leaving HCMC next week. Does anyone have any recommendations for where I can do that? (Preferably in District 2?) If anyone has already done ...
Yeah, I'm in Go Vap. My in-laws are in a different part of Go Vap and haven't been tested yet. Testing appears to be going ward by ward within the district. Read More
Covid testing in HCMC? by Bangkokian1
Hi everyone -- As part of travel regulations, I need to get a Covid test within 72 hours of my flight leaving HCMC next week. Does anyone have any recommendations for where I can do that? (Preferably in District 2?) If anyone has already done ...
I live in one of the areas where they are doing mass testing. They inserted a swab in through the hole at the back of the nasal cavity and twisted it for a few seconds. I didn't find it painful at all, I'd describe the feeling as unusual. ... Read More
Travel to Da Lat, new freeway by MarkinNam
📢 Start Dau Giay highway-Lien Khuong, shorten the time of Saigon to Da Lat only 3 hours 📢 According to the information that the Ministry of Transportation, the People's Committee of Dong Nai and Lam Dong are asking the Ministry ...
Whatever highways they build, hopefully they include separate lanes for motorbikes with high, impenetrable barriers. When they widen streets in HCMC, that extra space seems to inevitably be used as illegal parking by one guy in an SUV causing a ... Read More
[HCMC] Obtaining a work permit with insufficient work experience by marissamantonio
Hi, I recently got a job offer from a company. Now that I accepted the offer, they sent me a list of documents that I need to submit for them to process my work permit. One of the requirements is a certificate that shows at least 3 years of work ...
"For expert working under labor contracts - Bachelor’s degree and certificate of at least 3 years of experience relevant to the job position expected to work in Vietnam, or; - Have at least 5 years of experience and practice certificate ... Read More
New ESL job is torture, thinking about splitting in the night by Guest6787
I was so excited to come to Vietnam to start a new teaching job and take a modest pay rise. After months of jumping through hoops to get here, I realized after just 3 days on the job that I definitely won't be able to finish the contract at ...
I've met teachers that like working with TAs and teachers that don't like it. Personally, I very much enjoy working with good TAs. I've only worked with one TA that was overtly disruptive and intrusive to the point it was a problem, it ... Read More
New ESL job is torture, thinking about splitting in the night by Guest6787
I was so excited to come to Vietnam to start a new teaching job and take a modest pay rise. After months of jumping through hoops to get here, I realized after just 3 days on the job that I definitely won't be able to finish the contract at ...
"Here" being the United States? You've never been to Việt Nam, correct?Here being in Vietnam. I'm from the United States. I've been in Vietnam a bit over 8 years now, and my wife is Vietnamese. Originally I came ... Read More
New ESL job is torture, thinking about splitting in the night by Guest6787
I was so excited to come to Vietnam to start a new teaching job and take a modest pay rise. After months of jumping through hoops to get here, I realized after just 3 days on the job that I definitely won't be able to finish the contract at ...
I taught here for years at a number of different schools, although not recently. Typically 20ish students was normal. Sometimes smaller, but 20 is around the high end for private language centers. One of the best things you can do if you are ... Read More
Federal income tax filing by Diazo
For those that are required to file US federal income tax. Many do not seem to be aware that you can e-file online for free with many online platforms e.g TurboTax etc. It is a gov’t requirement that it be offered to certain individual who ...
One important caveat I discovered a couple years ago, if you have a "non-resident alien" spouse and they don't have an ITIN, you can't e-file anymore. To get an ITIN, you have to submit a paper return along with an ITIN ... Read More
Vaccines for expats by Overweight Unicorn
Does anyone have information on the possibility of expats receiving the vaccine in country once it becomes *readily available. It would seem impossible to go back to the UK and return once fully inoculated (currently 12 weeks between jabs) as the ...
Does this mention what they plan to do with people that already have visas/TRCs, and are in country? I'm wondering if they are planning implementation at borders only, or if they will require people already in country to provide certificates of ... Read More
ATMs With High Limits or Money Transfer Into Vietnam? by mtgmike
My bank in the US added higher per transaction fees recently. Last week I went to a local ATM the Vietnamese bank had lowered the withdrawal limit to 2,000,000. With the per transaction fees, I lose about 8% on a 2,000,000 withdrawal. I have a VND ...
In fact, that is always a tricky thing to do. If possible, always transfer to your own account name. Btw. Transferwise works wonders. If you wanna try it out, use this link, so we help each other out ... Read More
ATMs With High Limits or Money Transfer Into Vietnam? by mtgmike
My bank in the US added higher per transaction fees recently. Last week I went to a local ATM the Vietnamese bank had lowered the withdrawal limit to 2,000,000. With the per transaction fees, I lose about 8% on a 2,000,000 withdrawal. I have a VND ...
I initiated a Transferwise transfer to my wife's account. Within 30 minutes she got a notification that the money was deposited into her account. It took 1-2 hours for the transfers I tried to send to myself to bounce back to me. There are no ... Read More
ATMs With High Limits or Money Transfer Into Vietnam? by mtgmike
My bank in the US added higher per transaction fees recently. Last week I went to a local ATM the Vietnamese bank had lowered the withdrawal limit to 2,000,000. With the per transaction fees, I lose about 8% on a 2,000,000 withdrawal. I have a VND ...
I tried Transferwise, just $100 USD to test it out. Everything went smooth on the Transferwise side, the money was converted from USD to VND, then sent to Vietcombank. Vietcombank rejected the transfer and sent it back. All of the transfer ... Read More
ATMs With High Limits or Money Transfer Into Vietnam? by mtgmike
My bank in the US added higher per transaction fees recently. Last week I went to a local ATM the Vietnamese bank had lowered the withdrawal limit to 2,000,000. With the per transaction fees, I lose about 8% on a 2,000,000 withdrawal. I have a VND ...
Thanks for the advice. I contacted my bank in the US, and they do not allow online international transfers. They told me I need to visit a US branch in person to arrange an international wire transfer. I will look into Transferwise, it sounds ... Read More
ATMs With High Limits or Money Transfer Into Vietnam?
My bank in the US added higher per transaction fees recently. Last week I went to a local ATM the Vietnamese bank had lowered the withdrawal limit to 2,000,000. With the per transaction fees, I lose about 8% on a 2,000,000 withdrawal. I have a VND ... Read More
Keeping Seldom Used Motorbike Functional?
I haven't been using my motorbike as much lately and the battery has been dying. I think the last time I started it was about 5 weeks ago, today I can't even kick-start it. How often and how long with each ride do you suppose you'd ... Read More
Availability of skin cancer topical cream, Efudex (Fluorouracil 5%)? by myvietnam
hi all i am in urgent need of the above topical (external) skin cancer cream to treat new sc lesions on my head. i could get it shipped from Au, BUT would need an AU doctor's prescription which, unsurprisingly, i don't have, and my local, ...
Stamford Skin Centre, a dermatology clinic in district 1, HCMC, has Efudex. You may need to an appointment with their dermatologist to get a prescription and buy it. Read More
Extend your visa now or Cry later by Johnny Le Manh Hung
---------------------------------------------------- From the 18th of May, Immigration announced some new policies on visa automatic extended until June 30th, for those who enter Vietnam after March 1st, 2020 under tourist visa, Visa waiver, ...
Does any of this apply to people that have a TRC that that doesn't expire any time soon and have been in the country since before any of this started? Do we need to file a health declaration somewhere? Are established TRCs still valid? Read More
Tobacco Strength Vape Juice and/or Pipe Tobacco Shop in HCMC?
Vape Question: Is it still possible to get juice here that will work with a 0.15 sub ohm vape device and has the same nicotine as tobacco cigarettes? I can only find 0-6mg nicotine juice and it's not working out for me. Pipe Tobacco ... Read More
E-File US Tax Return With NRA Wife Without ITIN/SSN?
Anyone know a way to e-file taxes when you are married to a non-resident alien spouse that doesn't have an ITIN or SSN? I'm filing MFS, not claiming HoH or dependents or any other tax breaks or deductions. Turbo Tax won't let me do it ... Read More
Anyone have any further info on this upcoming tourist visa change? by qnbui
From what I've read and heard, it affects tourist visas over 30 days and you have to get re-stamped every 30 days. Could drive away expats from VN like the Thai laws that are driving away expats in Thailand. Hopefully it doesn't affect most ...
So if a two year work permit may only be extended once, does this mean that an ESL teacher will be limited to four years working in Vietnam, or does it simply mean that at the end of four years the teacher will have to submit all the paperwork again ... Read More
Anyone have any further info on this upcoming tourist visa change? by qnbui
From what I've read and heard, it affects tourist visas over 30 days and you have to get re-stamped every 30 days. Could drive away expats from VN like the Thai laws that are driving away expats in Thailand. Hopefully it doesn't affect most ...
If you exit with a spousal TRC of type "TT", will they issue you with a 30 day certificate based on a TT visa, or will you be able to return and stay for the full duration remaining on your spousal TRC? In other news that could be of ... Read More
Need to Leave Once After Getting TRC?
Hello, Hoping to hear from someone that's done this already. I entered Vietnam with a TT spousal visa, obtained a 5 year VEC, then obtained a 3 year spousal TRC, in that order, all in HCMC. The 180 day per entry limit on my VEC stamp is ... Read More
3 Year TRC (Temporary Residence Card) without work permit by charmavietnam
Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is available now for foreigners who are parents, spouses and children of Vietnamese citizens. Actually I intend to apply for this when my work related TRC ends in this December but should go out of country and stay 2-3 ...
Thanks much! I'll give her a call. I'm just finding out I may have some other issues with my DN visa from last year, I put a separate post about that on the forum. Read More
3 Year TRC (Temporary Residence Card) without work permit by charmavietnam
Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is available now for foreigners who are parents, spouses and children of Vietnamese citizens. Actually I intend to apply for this when my work related TRC ends in this December but should go out of country and stay 2-3 ...
Hello, I posted a while back, trying again because my year long Visa expires in September. Trying to get a spousal TRC. Current status: US passport Married to Vietnamese citizen Police book registered with wife living in a house in HCMC Wife's ... Read More
3 Year TRC (Temporary Residence Card) without work permit by charmavietnam
Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is available now for foreigners who are parents, spouses and children of Vietnamese citizens. Actually I intend to apply for this when my work related TRC ends in this December but should go out of country and stay 2-3 ...
Hello. Reposting here as I posted in the wrong TRC thread last time. I've been looking through the TRC threads and I'm still confused as to how the TRC works. I'm a U.S. citizen married to a VN citizen. 1. Can I get a T.R.C. just ... Read More
Steps to obtain an Investor TRC (Temporary Residence Card) in Vietnam by charmavietnam
[b][color=#057716]Steps to obtain an Investor TRC (Temporary Residence Card) in Vietnam[/color][/b] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [color=#222cf6]To apply for an investor TRC, ...
First off perhaps your query should be in the thread titled "3 Year TRC (Temporary Residence Card) without work permit." Admittedly the title may not say so but that thread is about the TRC based on marriage to VN citizens. Sorry for ... Read More
Steps to obtain an Investor TRC (Temporary Residence Card) in Vietnam by charmavietnam
[b][color=#057716]Steps to obtain an Investor TRC (Temporary Residence Card) in Vietnam[/color][/b] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [color=#222cf6]To apply for an investor TRC, ...
Hello. I've been looking through this thread and I'm still confused as to how the TRC works. I'm a U.S. citizen married to a VN citizen. 1. Can I get a T.R.C. just being married to my VN wife now? 2. If I have a T.R.C., do I need to ... Read More
Spousal Visa to the USA by mtgmike
Hello, I've been reading up on the process for getting my Vietnamese wife into the United States on a spousal visa. It looks to be quite time intensive with the processing and waiting, perhaps upwards of 1-2 years. Specifically, I'm a US ...
Thanks again for all the detailed answers, I really appreciate it, and congrats on your success. I've always registered with the police, so we should have documents placing us at the same residence. I did see that part about household size as ... Read More
Spousal Visa to the USA by mtgmike
Hello, I've been reading up on the process for getting my Vietnamese wife into the United States on a spousal visa. It looks to be quite time intensive with the processing and waiting, perhaps upwards of 1-2 years. Specifically, I'm a US ...
Thanks for the detailed reply THIGV. 1. Regarding my birth certificate and rental agreements, do I need originals? Notarized copies? If I translate the rental agreement does that need notarization? I bring these to the interview at the US ... Read More
Spousal Visa to the USA
Hello, I've been reading up on the process for getting my Vietnamese wife into the United States on a spousal visa. It looks to be quite time intensive with the processing and waiting, perhaps upwards of 1-2 years. Specifically, I'm a US ... Read More
Best Hospital for Endometrial Cancer? by mtgmike
Hello. A few months ago I posted I was getting married and my wife and I were looking for advice buying property in Vietnam to live in and run her nail salon. We got married in October. We finally got our loan from the bank last week to begin ...
It looks like it comes down to FV, Tu Du, or ESMO. So far we're consulting with both FV and Tu Du. Read More
Best Hospital for Endometrial Cancer? by mtgmike
Hello. A few months ago I posted I was getting married and my wife and I were looking for advice buying property in Vietnam to live in and run her nail salon. We got married in October. We finally got our loan from the bank last week to begin ...
Do you think FV is not that good? How do you get a VN citizen to Singapore and how fast can that be done? I'm sure I could be on a plane to Singapore next week, but I don't know about her. Edit: Just looked a bit at that, I don't know ... Read More
Best Hospital for Endometrial Cancer?
Hello. A few months ago I posted I was getting married and my wife and I were looking for advice buying property in Vietnam to live in and run her nail salon. We got married in October. We finally got our loan from the bank last week to begin ... Read More
Transferring Money INTO Vietnam by mtgmike
I've seen a lot of posts by people trying to get money out of Vietnam, I've got a few questions for those of you that have transferred money in. I posted yesterday about buying some land, this is related to that but it's about the ...
Thanks a lot, this is the information I was looking for. I think I'll be going through my bank with either the USD account or the VND account depending on what they have to say about a few things. Read More
Buying Real Property: Land Prices Only Go Up? by mtgmike
Hello, I'm looking for advice regarding land prices in Viet Nam. I've been in Vietnam six years and recently married a VN woman. Our plan was to buy land somewhere out in Go Vap near my wife's family. She would run a nail salon, we ...
I have vowed to be less snarky on this forum, so I can't say what I first thought. You are married to your wife and sound very happy. You are all-in with her and her family. Your plans sound well thought out. The advice you have gotten from ... Read More
Transferring Money INTO Vietnam by mtgmike
I've seen a lot of posts by people trying to get money out of Vietnam, I've got a few questions for those of you that have transferred money in. I posted yesterday about buying some land, this is related to that but it's about the ...
I've looked at some of the older posts, but they have conflicting info. Some people say Western Union. Some people report trouble with banks out in smaller cities and provinces. A post by Yogi said he lives off money drawn from foreign ... Read More
Transferring Money INTO Vietnam
I've seen a lot of posts by people trying to get money out of Vietnam, I've got a few questions for those of you that have transferred money in. I posted yesterday about buying some land, this is related to that but it's about the ... Read More
Buying Real Property: Land Prices Only Go Up? by mtgmike
Hello, I'm looking for advice regarding land prices in Viet Nam. I've been in Vietnam six years and recently married a VN woman. Our plan was to buy land somewhere out in Go Vap near my wife's family. She would run a nail salon, we ...
"Generally you have to invest a lot of time and visit the properties together with your wife. Usually it is not as described or the price is much higher." That's unfortunate. I'm seeing a lot of stuff on muaban for 1.2-1.7 ... Read More
Buying Real Property: Land Prices Only Go Up? by mtgmike
Hello, I'm looking for advice regarding land prices in Viet Nam. I've been in Vietnam six years and recently married a VN woman. Our plan was to buy land somewhere out in Go Vap near my wife's family. She would run a nail salon, we ...
Wife says Ben Luc is outside HCMC towards Dong Nai and too far. Looked bit at Binh Chanh. I think there is some stuff out there that may work. Thanks for the tip. Do you suppose we have time or do you suppose prices in Binh Chanh will go crazy ... Read More
Buying Real Property: Land Prices Only Go Up? by mtgmike
Hello, I'm looking for advice regarding land prices in Viet Nam. I've been in Vietnam six years and recently married a VN woman. Our plan was to buy land somewhere out in Go Vap near my wife's family. She would run a nail salon, we ...
Thanks Colinoscapee. Just to be clear, that price won't get anything with a busy street in the smaller cities either? Read More
Buying Real Property: Land Prices Only Go Up?
Hello, I'm looking for advice regarding land prices in Viet Nam. I've been in Vietnam six years and recently married a VN woman. Our plan was to buy land somewhere out in Go Vap near my wife's family. She would run a nail salon, we ... Read More
Any Updates on the newly passed 12 month tourist visa for US citizens by ChrisRug
My name is Chris. I've lived here with my wife and two children for almost a year now. I read all news VN, and read a few months ago that the VN govt was going to change the way tourist visa's were issued for Japan, AU and US. I then read ...
https://www.garfinkelimmigration.com/FAQs/What-is-visa-reciprocity.shtml "While the United States has a policy against entering into formal reciprocity agreements, the U.S. bases its visa issuance fees, number of entries, and maximum period of ... Read More
Vasectomy in HCMC?
Does anyone know of legit practices that will do vasectomies in HCMC for foreigners and what the price range is? I've poked around a bit online but I'm not seeing much in English. I have no qualms about going to a Vietnamese practice over ... Read More
If student has bad result in class,is it right to blame for teacher? by tien.ho03
I worked for certain language centers in Vietnam. I am an English teacher. Students coming to those center are quite "lazy". Most of them just learn in class and do not study or even do homework at home. So the question is that how they ...
If you are doing your job well you will probably see most students achieve good results with a few outliers. Use the exams to see what you can change in your lessons. If most students aren't getting something, you should make some changes to ... Read More
U.S. Citizen Can Retire in Vietnam? Visa Options? by Guest2394875
I'm considering retiring in Vietnam and am wondering about visa options allowing a long term stay (hopefully without having to periodically leave and return to the country). From what I've read, renewing a short-term visa is a hassle and ...
Visas here can be difficult and the laws and fees change constantly. For example, 3 month extensions on visas went up around %300-%500 in price since last year. If you find your answers today, next year could be a whole new story, two years from ... Read More
Safety in Vietnam by Christine
Hi, We would like to talk about a sensitive but important topic: do you feel safe in Vietnam? How would you define the level of safety in the country? Can you walk safely during the day and at night without any fear? Do you think there ...
I feel safer from violent crime in HCMC than in U.S. cities for the most part. I feel less safe with regards to traffic. Someone mentioned earlier in this thread they knew of a man who died when motorbike thieves snatched his passenger's ... Read More
Best Way to Search for Apartments in HCMC?
I know there are adverts in the housing section of Expat.com, but can I get some recommendations for other resources to search? I've found plenty of Vietnamese language web sites with listings. Can these typically be rented by foreigners? Read More
Visa extension by Gphillips
I have a 90 day, multiple entry, C-1 visa for Vietnam. It is valid through 04 Feb. I need a one month extension to 04 Mar 2015. Unaware of the rule changes I went to the local travel agency for an extension on 06 Jan. No can do! Went to the ...
How did it go? Did you get it for that price? I have a B3 up for extension on 16/3. Yesterday my regular agent quoted me $210 after quoting $285 1 month ago.I took a holiday to Cambodia rather than paying an agent. Tickets to Phnom Penh are about ... Read More
Gaming Quality PC/Laptop or PC Hardware: Where in HCMC?
I'm looking for recommendations on a place to pick up a gaming quality PC/Laptop, or the pieces to assemble my own. Would Phong Vu be the place to go. Are there lower prices on reliable hardware at other shops? Read More
Where Can I Find Vitamins/Supplements in Ho Chi Minh City? by Shekina81
Hi All! I am looking for stores/places that sell vitamins (hair and skin vitamins, vitamin E, Vitamin B12, etc.) for a reasonable price other than the GNC Stores. Any help would be much appreciated! Thanks ! 😉
I'm pretty sure they sell this stuff at many of the little pharmacies too. For example, D3 Hai Ba Trung near Ly Chinh Thang has a whole row of pharmacies and I've bought 1-A-Days there. I've seen skin cream as well. They tend to be in ... Read More
Cambodia for Visa During Tet, ISO Advice/Info
Thanks for posting that info. :top: Read More
Cambodia for Visa During Tet, ISO Advice/Info
Hello. I'm looking for advice from anyone with knowledge of travelling to Cambodia over Tet. My Visa will expire in the middle of Tet. I've heard the Vietnamese Embassy in Cambodia will be closed from Feb 17 to Feb 23. Can anyone ... Read More
Visa extension by Gphillips
I have a 90 day, multiple entry, C-1 visa for Vietnam. It is valid through 04 Feb. I need a one month extension to 04 Mar 2015. Unaware of the rule changes I went to the local travel agency for an extension on 06 Jan. No can do! Went to the ...
Tonight I was quoted price of $195 an extension on a 3 month B3 single entry. Last year it was more like $40ish for an extension at this place. Still waiting on other quotes. Unless the news gets better soon I'll be putting that $200 towards ... Read More
Extension for Hanoi Airport B3 Visa in HCMC
I need a 3 month extension on a B3 visa on arrival issued at the airport in Hanoi. The original entry was in December. I've extended it for 3 months once and I need to extend for another 3 months. Does anyone know an agent in HCMC that can do ... Read More
Yamaha, Honda, or Suzuki and Brake Types? by mtgmike
Hello 1) Between these, what would you recommend? Yamaha Taurus (drum brake) 15,990,000 / (disc brake) 16,990,000 Sirius (drum brake) 18,100,000 VND / (disc brake) 19,100,000 VND Sirius RC 21,100,000 VND Sirius RC FI 22.990.000VND Honda Wave ...
Thanks for the info. I checked out one of the shops on that street and then went to another shop somewhere else. I ended up getting a Suzuki Hayete, a little more expensive than the others I had on my list but it was one of the cheaper automatics ... Read More
Yamaha, Honda, or Suzuki and Brake Types?
Hello 1) Between these, what would you recommend? Yamaha Taurus (drum brake) 15,990,000 / (disc brake) 16,990,000 Sirius (drum brake) 18,100,000 VND / (disc brake) 19,100,000 VND Sirius RC 21,100,000 VND Sirius RC FI 22.990.000VND Honda Wave ... Read More
How to access Facebook on my PC without using a proxy server by Hue1964
Does anyone know how I can access Facebook without using a proxy server? I have no problems using my iPad via my home wifi. Used to be able to access on my laptop via home wifi but since moving to a new apartment with new connection it's blocked. ...
Change your DNS. It's the better solution and will apply not only to FB but also to any other websites that are blocked this way. For Windows select whatever network adapter you use, go to properties, Internet Protocol Version 4, specify your DNS ... Read More
Visa Extension Port of Entry Issues? by mtgmike
Hello, Last year I extended my 3 month single entry visa with 3 month single entry extensions 3 times, at about $45 per extension. My original 3 month single entry was issued at HCMC airport. This year I left Vietnam and came back in via the ...
The price quoted was $60 if I had come in via HCMC airport. The issue I'm having with this agent is increased prices because of the Hanoi port of entry this time around. I don't mind a $15 increase, but the 200% markup is pushing it. Read More
Visa Extension Port of Entry Issues?
Hello, Last year I extended my 3 month single entry visa with 3 month single entry extensions 3 times, at about $45 per extension. My original 3 month single entry was issued at HCMC airport. This year I left Vietnam and came back in via the ... Read More
Criminal Background Checks by mtgmike
Hello, I'm applying for work as was asked by one company to supply a copy of my criminal background check. I'm an American so this is might be a bit of an ordeal? I read that if you've been in Vietnam for 6 months you can/must get a background ...
Thanks for this information. Regarding the red book... I stayed 6 months in an apartment in HCMC last year, 1.5 months at a hotel in Sa Pa, another 1.5 months at second hotel in Sa Pa, 1 month in another apartment in HCMC, and I'm moving back to ... Read More
Criminal Background Checks
Hello, I'm applying for work as was asked by one company to supply a copy of my criminal background check. I'm an American so this is might be a bit of an ordeal? I read that if you've been in Vietnam for 6 months you can/must get a background ... Read More
American Super Bowl in HCMC?
Anyone know of any bars/restaurants that would likely have the American Super Bowl televised? It actually starts at 6:30 AM HCMC time so I'm guessing chances are slim unless it's a delayed broadcast or rerun. Read More
2 Week Visa Run / Vacation to Bangkok
Hello, I'm set to fly into Bangkok from Vietnam this week to get a new Visa and take in the city. Any tips on Bangkok, tours, or other places to go outside the city? Also, regarding the demonstrations that have cropped up this week, are these ... Read More
Flying Hanoi->Bangkok->Siagon. Cash? Visas?
Hello, I've got plans to fly from Hanoi to Bangkok, stay in Thailand for a while, with a return flight to Saigon. I have a U.S. passport and can stay in Thailand up to 30 days without a Visa. Will I need to bring cash to the airport in Bangkok? ... Read More
Visa Run Hanoi > ??? > Saigon by mtgmike
Hello. I have a U.S. passport. My visa extension for Vietnam expires December 1st. I have to leave Vietnam to get a new visa. I'm currently in North Vietnam, about 8 hours form Hanoi, and I would like to end up in Saigon next month. One option ...
Okay thanks for the info! I'm leaning towards Thailand. Read More