A Complete Guide to Vietnam as a Digital Nomad

From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beaches of Da Nang, Vietnam has emerged as one of Southeast Asia's premier destinations for digital nomads. With its vibrant culture, affordable cost of living, delicious cuisine, and rapidly improving infrastructure, it's no wonder that remote workers from around the globe are flocking to this S-shaped country. Whether you're looking for a fast-paced urban experience or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, Vietnam offers diverse environments suitable for every type of digital nomad. In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through everything you need to know to make Vietnam your next remote work paradise.

Vietnam checks all the boxes for what makes a destination appealing to digital nomads. First and foremost is affordability – your dollar (or euro, or pound) stretches remarkably far here. A comfortable lifestyle that might cost you $3,000-4,000 monthly in Western countries can be achieved for $1,000-1,500 in Vietnam.

Beyond cost, Vietnam offers an incredible diversity of experiences. You can set up in a modern high-rise apartment in Ho Chi Minh City with all the conveniences of urban living, or choose a traditional wooden house in Hoi An surrounded by rice paddies. The country's varied climate means you can escape to the mountains when the coastal areas get too hot.

The improving digital infrastructure is another major draw. Internet connectivity has developed rapidly, with fiber connections becoming standard in major cities and tourist areas. Even in more remote locations, 4G coverage is surprisingly good, making working on the go feasible.

Finally, there's the food. If you're a culinary enthusiast like me, Vietnam's food scene will never disappoint. From the complex flavors of pho to the simplicity of a perfect banh mi, the country's cuisine offers endless exploration possibilities, similar to what you might experience when navigating Bangkok's vibrant night markets and street food, but with its own unique character.

Understanding Vietnam's visa requirements is crucial for planning your digital nomad stay. While Vietnam doesn't offer a specific digital nomad visa (yet), there are several options to consider:

Tourist Visa

Most digital nomads start with this option. You can obtain a 1-month or 3-month single or multiple-entry tourist visa. The 3-month multiple-entry option gives you the most flexibility, allowing you to exit and re-enter the country.

E-visa

Vietnam has recently expanded its e-visa program to citizens of 80 countries. The current e-visa allows for a stay of up to 90 days with single or multiple entries. This is often the easiest option for first-time visitors.

Business Visa

If you're planning a longer stay, a business visa can be arranged through a local company. These typically allow for longer periods and can be extended while in-country.

Visa Runs

A common practice among long-term digital nomads is performing "visa runs" – briefly leaving the country to reset your visa status. Popular destinations for visa runs include Cambodia, Thailand, and Malaysia.

It's important to note that technically, working on a tourist visa is a gray area. While digital nomads who work for foreign companies and clients aren't typically targeted for enforcement, it's always wise to stay informed about current regulations, which can change frequently.

Vietnam offers several excellent base cities for digital nomads, each with its own distinct character and advantages. Here's a breakdown of the top locations:

As Vietnam's largest city and commercial hub, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) offers the most developed infrastructure for digital nomads. The city pulsates with energy 24/7, boasting numerous coworking spaces, cafes, networking events, and a thriving expat community.

Pros:

• Fastest internet in the country
• Abundant coworking options
• Vibrant nightlife and social scene
• International amenities and services
• Easy domestic and international flight connections

Cons:

• Noise and air pollution
• Traffic congestion
• Higher cost of living compared to other Vietnamese cities
• Hot and humid climate year-round

Popular Areas for Digital Nomads:

• District 1: The central business district with premium amenities
• District 2 (Thao Dien): Expat-friendly area with Western comforts
• District 3: More local feel but still convenient with great cafes
• District 4: Up-and-coming area with cheaper accommodations

The café culture in HCMC is perfect for digital nomads, with countless stylish spots offering excellent Vietnamese coffee and reliable WiFi. For coworking, check out Dreamplex, WeWork, or The Workshop, which offer professional environments and networking opportunities.

Vietnam's capital offers a more traditional Vietnamese experience than HCMC, with its thousand-year history evident in its architecture and pace of life. Hanoi blends the old and new in fascinating ways.

Pros:

• Rich cultural heritage and authentic atmosphere
• Lower cost of living than HCMC
• Excellent food scene
• Distinct seasons (including a mild winter)
• Beautiful lakes and public spaces

Cons:

• Slower pace may not suit everyone
• Fewer coworking spaces than HCMC
• Can be chaotic and overwhelming for newcomers
• Cold and damp winters

Popular Areas for Digital Nomads:

• Tay Ho (West Lake): Expat haven with lakeside views
• Ba Dinh: Near the Old Quarter but quieter
• Hai Ba Trung: Up-and-coming area with good local/expat mix

Hanoi's café scene is arguably even better than HCMC's, with unique coffee shops tucked away in French colonial buildings, hidden courtyards, and even train tracks. For coworking, check out Toong, UP, and Hub.IT.

Perhaps the most perfectly balanced option for digital nomads in Vietnam, Da Nang offers beaches, mountains, modern infrastructure, and a relaxed vibe. It's grown tremendously in popularity among remote workers in recent years.

Pros:

• Beautiful beaches and mountain scenery
• More relaxed lifestyle than HCMC or Hanoi
• Growing digital nomad community
• Good infrastructure with fewer urban hassles
• Central location makes exploring other parts of Vietnam easy

Cons:

• Fewer big city amenities
• Can feel small after a few months
• Tourism-focused economy
• Extreme heat in summer months

Popular Areas for Digital Nomads:

• My An/An Thuong: The main expat and digital nomad area near the beach
• Son Tra Peninsula: More secluded with beautiful views
• Hai Chau: Downtown area with city conveniences

Da Nang strikes a wonderful balance between convenience and nature, similar to what you might find in Bali's digital nomad scene, but with fewer tourists and a more authentically Vietnamese experience. The city has embraced the digital nomad movement with spaces like Hub Hoi An (technically in neighboring Hoi An) and Enouvo Space.

Just 30 minutes from Da Nang, Hoi An offers a completely different atmosphere. This UNESCO World Heritage town with its preserved ancient architecture provides a picturesque setting for those seeking inspiration and tranquility.

Pros:

• Stunningly beautiful ancient town
• Relaxed pace of life
• Close to beaches and countryside
• Excellent food scene
• More affordable than larger cities

Cons:

• Tourist-focused economy
• Limited coworking options
• Flooding during rainy season
• May feel too quiet for some

Many digital nomads opt to stay in the Cam Thanh area, which offers a peaceful countryside setting just a short bike ride from both the ancient town and the beach. While Hoi An has fewer dedicated coworking spaces, its abundance of beautiful cafes makes up for it.

Situated in the Central Highlands, Dalat offers a completely different Vietnam experience. Its cooler climate, pine forests, and European-influenced architecture make it feel almost like a different country.

Pros:

• Cool, spring-like climate year-round
• Beautiful natural surroundings
• Lower cost of living
• Relaxed atmosphere
• Unique food specialties

Cons:

• Fewer dedicated digital nomad facilities
• Limited international dining options
• Can feel isolated
• Occasional internet stability issues

Dalat is perfect for nature-loving digital nomads who want to escape the heat and humidity of Vietnam's coastal areas. The city has a growing café scene with unique spots like La Viet Coffee that double as suitable working spaces.

Internet connectivity in Vietnam has improved dramatically in recent years. In major cities and tourist areas, you can expect fast and reliable fiber connections in most accommodations and coworking spaces. Average speeds typically range from 20-100 Mbps in urban areas, with some premium locations offering even faster connections.

Mobile Data

For on-the-go connectivity, Vietnam's 4G network is extensive and affordable. The three major providers are Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone. Viettel generally offers the best coverage, especially in more remote areas, while all providers offer good service in cities.

Getting a SIM card is straightforward and inexpensive. For around $5-10, you can get a SIM with plenty of data (often 60GB or more per month). The best place to purchase is at the airport upon arrival or at official provider stores in the cities. Always ask for the tourist or traveler packages, which typically offer the best value for short-term stays.

Backup Solutions

Despite improvements, power outages and internet disruptions can still occur, especially during the rainy season. Smart digital nomads always have backup options:

• A portable hotspot device with a different provider than your main SIM
• Knowledge of reliable cafés and coworking spaces in your area
• A portable power bank for keeping devices charged during outages

For important video calls or deadlines, it's always wise to have a Plan B (and sometimes C) for your internet connection.

Finding suitable accommodation in Vietnam is relatively easy, with options ranging from budget to luxury. Here are the main types to consider:

Short-term Stays (1-4 weeks)

Hotels and Guesthouses
Perfect for getting your bearings when you first arrive. Budget hotels start around $15-20/night, while mid-range options with better amenities run $30-50/night. Most include breakfast and have decent WiFi.

Airbnb
Vietnam has a good selection of Airbnb properties, particularly in tourist areas and major cities. For short stays, these often offer better value than hotels, with more space and kitchen facilities. Expect to pay $300-800/month depending on the city and quality.

Medium to Long-term Stays (1+ months)

Serviced Apartments
Popular with expats and long-term digital nomads, these offer the convenience of a hotel with more space and typically include regular cleaning, utilities, and sometimes a gym or pool. Prices range from $400-1000/month depending on location and amenities.

Rental Houses and Apartments
For stays of 3+ months, renting directly from a landlord offers the best value. In HCMC or Hanoi, decent one-bedroom apartments start around $300-400/month in local areas, or $500-700 in expat-friendly districts. In smaller cities like Da Nang or Hoi An, you can find nice places for $250-500/month.

Finding Accommodation

For long-term rentals, Facebook groups specific to each city are invaluable resources (search "[City name] Expats" or "[City name] Accommodation"). Local real estate agents can also help, though they typically charge a fee equivalent to half a month's rent.

When negotiating longer stays, always ask for monthly rates, as these can be significantly discounted. Don't be afraid to negotiate, especially for stays of 3+ months. Landlords typically prefer longer-term tenants, even at slightly reduced rates.

Vietnam offers diverse workspaces for digital nomads, from professional coworking environments to atmospheric cafés where you can settle in for hours with a single coffee.

Coworking Spaces

Coworking has boomed in Vietnam, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Most spaces offer flexible options from hot desks to dedicated offices:

• Day passes typically cost $8-15
• Weekly passes range from $40-70
• Monthly membership averages $100-200 depending on location and amenities

Top coworking chains include:

• Dreamplex (HCMC) - Professional environment with multiple locations
• WeWork (HCMC) - International standard facilities and networking
• Toong (Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang) - Beautifully designed spaces with local character
• UP Coworking (Hanoi) - Community-focused with good events

Beyond the big chains, numerous independent coworking spaces exist, often with more character and local connections. Many offer trial days, so don't hesitate to sample several before committing.

Café Working Culture

Perhaps even more central to the digital nomad experience in Vietnam is its incredible café scene. Vietnamese coffee culture blends French colonial influence with local innovation, resulting in unique spaces perfect for remote work.

In every city, you'll find countless cafés where it's completely acceptable to work for hours. Most have good WiFi, plenty of power outlets, and reasonable prices. A typical coffee costs $1.50-3.00, and many places offer food options as well.

Look for cafés that specifically cater to the laptop crowd – these often have ergonomic seating, good lighting, and stable internet. In Hanoi, the café scene rivals what you'd find in places like Tokyo's food culture, but with prices that make daily visits affordable on any budget.

One of Vietnam's biggest attractions for digital nomads is its affordability. While costs vary significantly depending on your lifestyle and location, here's a general breakdown of what to expect:

Monthly Budget (in USD)

Budget Lifestyle ($700-1,000)

• Accommodation: $250-350 (studio or shared apartment in local area)
• Food: $200-300 (mostly local food, occasional western meals)
• Transportation: $30-50 (primarily motorbike rental or ride-hailing apps)
• Coworking/cafés: $50-100
• Entertainment: $100-150
• Miscellaneous: $70-150

Comfortable Lifestyle ($1,000-1,500)

• Accommodation: $400-600 (one-bedroom in good area)
• Food: $300-450 (mix of local and western options, some nicer restaurants)
• Transportation: $50-80 (motorbike rental plus occasional taxis)
• Coworking/cafés: $100-150
• Entertainment: $150-250
• Miscellaneous: $100-200

Luxury Lifestyle ($1,500-2,500+)

• Accommodation: $700-1,200 (upscale apartment, possibly with pool/gym)
• Food: $500-700 (regular dining at higher-end restaurants)
• Transportation: $100-200 (car service or frequent taxis)
• Coworking/cafés: $150-250 (premium memberships)
• Entertainment: $300-500 (including weekend trips)
• Miscellaneous: $250-400

Money-Saving Tips

• Eat local: Vietnamese food is not only delicious but also incredibly affordable. A bowl of pho or bun cha at a local spot costs $1-3.
• Rent long-term: Monthly rates are much better than daily or weekly, and 3+ month commitments can reduce rent by 20-30%.
• Use ride-hailing apps: Grab and Be are much cheaper than traditional taxis and eliminate haggling.
• Shop at local markets: For produce and everyday items, local markets are far cheaper than supermarkets.
• Health insurance: International health insurance is essential; policies targeting digital nomads are often more affordable than traditional expat insurance.

Vietnam's food scene is a major highlight for digital nomads. The country's cuisine varies dramatically from north to south, offering endless culinary exploration opportunities reminiscent of the diversity you might find when discovering Taipei's hidden street food gems, but with its own distinct flavors and traditions.

Must-Try Vietnamese Dishes

• Pho - The iconic beef or chicken noodle soup, with regional variations
• Banh Mi - French-influenced sandwich with Vietnamese fillings
• Bun Cha - Grilled pork with rice noodles (a Hanoi specialty)
• Cao Lau - Unique noodles found only in Hoi An
• Com Tam - Broken rice with grilled pork (southern specialty)
• Banh Xeo - Crispy savory pancakes
• Cha Ca - Turmeric-marinated fish (northern specialty)

Dining Options

Street Food
The most authentic and affordable option, with meals typically costing $1-3. Look for busy stalls with locals, plastic stools, and specialized menus focusing on just one or two dishes – these are often the best.

Local Restaurants
A step up from street food in terms of comfort but still very affordable ($3-7 per meal). These family-run establishments often serve a wider variety of dishes in a simple setting.

Mid-range Restaurants
Offering both Vietnamese and international cuisine with air conditioning and comfortable seating. Expect to pay $7-15 per person.

High-end Dining
Vietnam's fine dining scene has developed rapidly, particularly in HCMC and Hanoi. Modern Vietnamese cuisine and international options are available at $20-50+ per person.

Dietary Restrictions

Vegetarians and vegans will find Vietnam easier to navigate than many might expect. Buddhist vegetarian traditions mean that many purely vegetarian restaurants exist, particularly in larger cities. The concept of "chay" (vegetarian) is well understood, though be specific about no fish sauce, as it's a common ingredient.

For those with allergies or specific dietary needs, it's helpful to have these written in Vietnamese to show to restaurant staff. The concept of food allergies is becoming better understood in urban areas, though it may still be challenging in more remote locations.

Navigating Vietnam's cities and traveling between them is generally easy and affordable, though it can sometimes be chaotic by Western standards.

Within Cities

Motorbike Rental
The most popular option among digital nomads. Monthly rentals cost $40-80 for a standard automatic scooter. You'll need an International Driving Permit and motorcycle endorsement to be legal, though enforcement varies. Always wear a helmet and drive defensively.

Ride-hailing Apps
Grab and Be (formerly GoJek) operate throughout major cities, offering both car and motorbike taxi services at very reasonable rates. A 3km car ride typically costs around $2-3, while a motorbike taxi is even cheaper.

Traditional Taxis
Reliable companies include Mai Linh and Vinasun. Always ensure the meter is running or negotiate a price beforehand.

Bicycles
In smaller cities like Hoi An, bicycles are a pleasant option. Rentals cost around $1-2 per day or $15-30 per month.

Public Transportation
Hanoi and HCMC have limited but improving bus networks. They're very affordable but can be challenging to navigate for newcomers.

Between Cities

Domestic Flights
Vietnam has excellent domestic flight connectivity through Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, and Bamboo Airways. Book in advance for the best rates, which can be as low as $30-50 one-way.

Trains
The Reunification Express runs the length of the country from Hanoi to HCMC. It's slower than flying but offers beautiful scenery and a more authentic experience. Sleeper cabins make overnight journeys comfortable.

Buses
Long-distance buses connect most cities and towns. Companies like Futa (Phuong Trang) offer comfortable sleeper buses for longer journeys at very reasonable prices.

Private Transportation
For more remote destinations or comfort, private cars with drivers can be arranged through your accommodation or services like Klook.

Understanding and respecting Vietnamese culture will enhance your experience and help you integrate more successfully.

Basic Etiquette

• Greetings: A slight bow or nod with hands pressed together is a respectful greeting, though handshakes are common in business settings.
• Shoes: Remove your shoes when entering homes and some businesses (look for shoes at the entrance as a cue).
• Head and Feet: The head is considered sacred, and feet are considered dirty. Avoid touching someone's head or pointing your feet at people or religious objects.
• Public Behavior: Vietnamese culture values modesty and restraint. Avoid loud arguments or public displays of affection.
• Saving Face: The concept of "face" is important. Avoid causing embarrassment or putting someone in a position where they might lose face.

Language

While English is increasingly common in tourist areas and among the younger generation, learning a few Vietnamese phrases goes a long way:

• Xin chào (sin chow) - Hello
• Cảm ơn (cam un) - Thank you
• Xin lỗi (sin loy) - Excuse me/Sorry
• Bao nhiêu? (bow nyew) - How much?

Vietnamese is a tonal language, making pronunciation challenging, but locals appreciate any effort to speak their language.

Building Relationships

Vietnamese culture is relationship-oriented. Building connections takes time but yields rich rewards:

• Accept invitations to social gatherings
• Show interest in Vietnamese culture and traditions
• Be patient in business dealings
• Bring small gifts when invited to someone's home

Many digital nomads find that joining local language exchanges or community events is a great way to make Vietnamese friends, similar to how expats might engage with local culture in destinations like Melbourne or Budapest, but with the warmth and hospitality that's distinctly Vietnamese.

Vietnam is generally a safe country for digital nomads, with violent crime against foreigners rare. However, petty theft can occur in tourist areas, so maintain awareness of your belongings, particularly electronics.

Healthcare

Medical facilities vary widely in quality. Major cities have international-standard hospitals and clinics catering to expats, while rural areas have more basic facilities:

• HCMC: FV Hospital, Vinmec International Hospital
• Hanoi: Hanoi French Hospital, Vinmec International Hospital
• Da Nang: Vinmec Da Nang International Hospital

For minor illnesses, pharmacies are widely available and can provide many medications without prescriptions. However, for anything serious, seek proper medical care.

Comprehensive health insurance is essential. Policies designed for digital nomads, such as SafetyWing or World Nomads, provide good coverage at reasonable rates.

Common Health Concerns

• Food and Water: Stick to bottled water and be cautious with street food when you first arrive until your system adjusts.
• Dengue Fever: This mosquito-borne illness is present in Vietnam. Use repellent, especially during dawn and dusk.
• Air Quality: In major cities, air pollution can be an issue, particularly during certain seasons. Air purifiers in your accommodation can help.
• Traffic: Perhaps the biggest daily risk is road safety. Exercise extreme caution when crossing streets or riding motorbikes.

Emergency Information

Save these emergency numbers:

• General Emergency: 113
• Police: 113
• Fire: 114
• Ambulance: 115

It's also wise to know the location of your country's embassy or consulate in Vietnam.

Connecting with other digital nomads can enhance your experience tremendously, providing social connections, professional networking, and practical advice.

Finding Community

Facebook Groups
Each major city has active expat and digital nomad Facebook groups where members share tips, organize meetups, and answer questions. Search for groups like "Digital Nomads in [City]" or "[City] Expats."

Coworking Events
Many coworking spaces host regular networking events, workshops, and social gatherings specifically for remote workers.

Meetup.com
Check for digital nomad, professional, or interest-based groups in your area.

Nomad List
This platform helps connect digital nomads in various locations around the world, including Vietnamese cities.

Popular Community Activities

• Skill-sharing workshops
• Language exchanges
• Weekend trips and excursions
• Professional networking events
• Social dinners and happy hours

Unlike some other popular digital nomad destinations that can feel like bubbles separated from local life, Vietnam offers opportunities for meaningful cultural exchange, similar to experiences you might have exploring Taiwan's islands or discovering Tainan's street food, but with Vietnam's unique cultural context.

One of Vietnam's advantages is the accessibility of diverse experiences within short travel distances from major digital nomad hubs. Here are some top weekend getaways from popular bases:

• Mekong Delta (2-3 hours): Explore the maze of rivers, floating markets, and rural villages that make up Vietnam's rice bowl.
• Vung Tau (2 hours): A coastal escape with beaches and seafood restaurants, popular with HCMC residents.
• Con Dao Islands (45-minute flight): Pristine beaches and forests with a fascinating but dark history as a former prison island.
• Mui Ne (4 hours): Known for its sand dunes, kitesurfing, and resort atmosphere.

• Ha Long Bay (3-4 hours): Vietnam's most famous UNESCO site with thousands of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters.
• Ninh Binh (2 hours): Often called "Ha Long Bay on land" for its similar karst landscape but with rice fields instead of water.
• Sapa (6 hours or overnight train): Mountain town famous for terraced rice fields and ethnic minority cultures.
• Mai Chau (3 hours): Peaceful valley with traditional stilt houses of the White Thai people.

• Hue (2-3 hours): The former imperial capital with its impressive Citadel and royal tombs.
• Ba Na Hills (1 hour from Da Nang): Mountain resort with the famous Golden Bridge and theme park attractions.
• Cham Islands (40-minute boat from Hoi An): Marine protected area with excellent snorkeling and diving.
• My Son Sanctuary (1 hour from Hoi An): Ancient Cham temple ruins in a jungle setting, Vietnam's answer to Angkor Wat.

Banking and Money

• ATMs are widely available but often have low withdrawal limits (around $100-200) and fees.
• Consider opening an account with a digital bank like Wise or Revolut for better exchange rates.
• Always have some cash on hand, as many small businesses don't accept cards.
• The Vietnamese dong (VND) has many zeros – 100,000 VND is roughly $4 USD. Take your time with calculations to avoid mistakes.

Apps to Download

• Grab - For transportation and food delivery
• Zalo - Vietnam's popular messaging app
• Google Translate - With Vietnamese downloaded for offline use
• Maps.me - For offline navigation
• VPN - Occasionally needed for certain websites and services

Weather Considerations

Vietnam's climate varies by region:

• North (Hanoi): Four distinct seasons with hot summers and cool winters
• Central (Da Nang, Hoi An): Dry season from February to August; rainy season from September to January
• South (HCMC): Hot year-round with a rainy season from May to November

Plan your stays accordingly, particularly avoiding the central coast during heavy rain periods when flooding can occur.

Power Adapters

Vietnam generally uses 220V and a mix of plug types A, C, and F. A universal adapter is recommended.

Handling Homesickness

Extended periods abroad can lead to culture shock or homesickness. Combat this by:

• Establishing routines
• Connecting with both expat and local communities
• Finding familiar comforts (international groceries carry many Western products)
• Taking time to explore and appreciate your surroundings

Remember that adapting takes time, and the challenges of navigating a new culture are part of what makes the digital nomad experience so rewarding in the long run.

Vietnam offers digital nomads an intoxicating blend of affordability, adventure, culture, and increasingly solid infrastructure for remote work. From the chaotic energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene beaches of Da Nang and the traditional charm of Hanoi, there's a Vietnamese setting to match every digital nomad's preferences.

The country continues to evolve rapidly, with improvements in internet connectivity, coworking facilities, and services catering to the growing remote work community. Yet it maintains the authentic cultural experiences and affordability that make it so appealing.

While navigating Vietnam as a digital nomad comes with challenges – from visa considerations to occasional infrastructure hiccups – the rewards are immeasurable. Few destinations offer such a rich combination of professional functionality and personal exploration opportunities.

Whether you're drawn by the food, the landscapes, the affordability, or the people, Vietnam has a way of exceeding expectations and creating experiences that linger long after you've moved on to your next destination. For many digital nomads, what starts as a brief stop on their Southeast Asian journey becomes an unexpected home – a place they return to again and again, discovering new layers with each visit.

As Vietnam continues to open its arms to the global remote work community, there's never been a better time to experience this remarkable country as a digital nomad. Pack your laptop, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to be charmed by the endless surprises that Vietnam has in store.

Have you worked remotely from Vietnam or are you planning to? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below!