Guides for living and settling in Vietnam
Housing, visas, banking, healthcare, school and procedures: practical Vietly guides for preparing life in Vietnam.
Housing
1. Before You Start
Finding accommodation in Vietnam is relatively accessible, but the market operates differently than in France. Listings can disappear quickly, prices vary greatly depending on the neighborhood and type of accommodation, and a significant part of the negotiation is done directly with the owner or an agent.
Read guide2. What type of accommodation to choose?
🏢 Classic apartment - Căn hộ This is generally the best compromise for a stay of several months or years. You can find both relatively simple local apartments and modern residences with:
Read guide3. What budget to plan?
In Ho Chi Minh City, for example, 2026 listing data shows a median of about $384/month for a T2/1-bedroom, but furnished apartments meeting the standards sought by many expatriates can easily reach $750 to $1,400.
Read guide4. Where to live in Ho Chi Minh City?
One of the most well-known international neighborhoods. It features many international restaurants, cafes, international schools, and modern residences. It is also one of the most expensive areas: 2026 data shows that many studios are around $700–1,000 and one-bedroom apartments around $1,000–1,600 in the expatriate segment.
Read guide5. Where to live in Hanoi?
Probably the most well-known international neighborhood in Hanoi. Around the lake, there are many cafes, restaurants, and accommodations aimed at foreigners. The observed rents for a one-bedroom apartment in 2026 range widely from <strong>500 to 1,200 $</strong>, depending on the location and level of amenities.
Read guide6. Where to live in Đà Nẵng?
Đà Nẵng can be an interesting alternative to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Housing is generally cheaper there: some 2026 estimates place comfortable one-bedroom apartments around $380–680, compared to $750–1,400 in Ho Chi Minh City. Areas near Mỹ Khê and An Thượng are particularly popular with foreigners.
Read guide8. Questions to Ask During a Visit
Before saying yes, always ask: "How much is the monthly rent?" "How much is electricity per kWh?"
Read guide9. ⚠️ Traps to Avoid
Do not send money just to 'reserve' an apartment from someone whose identity and connection to the property you have not verified.
Read guide10. The Rental Agreement
For a Vietnamese contract that you do not fully understand, request a bilingual version or have it reviewed before signing.
Read guide11. Temporary Residence Declaration
Vietnam has an official system for the temporary residence declaration of foreigners, used by hosts.
Read guide12. How much to budget for your installation?
For an apartment at 12 million VND/month, you shouldn't arrive with just 12 million.
Read guide13. Our Recommended Strategy
For someone moving to Vietnam for the first time, Vietly recommends:
Read guide14. Checklist Before Picking Up the Keys
☐ I have physically visited the property<br>☐ I have verified the identity of the owner/agent<br>☐ I have read the contract
Read guide