Is it safe to retire in Vietnam?

The good news is Vietnam's low living costs rank it in the Top 10 Best Countries To Retire. That $1000 monthly budget includes a comfortable lifestyle with frequent meals out, a western-standard apartment, maid service, and an active social life.

Can a foreigner retire in Vietnam?

Unfortunately, a retirement visa is still not available yet in Vietnam. So for foreigners who would like to stay longer in Vietnam, they will have to apply for a business visa or a tourist visa, however, due to recent updates to the immigration law, a business or investor visa is the only way forward.

Is Vietnam a good place for an American to live?

Up to 8 levels higher than last year, Vietnam has entered the top 10 best countries for foreigners to live and work for the first time, according to the recently released HSBC Expat 2019 report.

Is Vietnam safe for expats?

Is Vietnam safe for expats? Yes, living in Vietnam for expats is relatively safe. The country rarely experiences horrible natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis. The security, especially in large cities, is acceptable.

How much does a house in Vietnam cost?

The average home in Vietnam costs approximately $4,500. Monthly rent varies, but the average cost is about $650, and this price often includes utilities. While violent crime rates are fairly low across Vietnam, many cities experience a high rate of property-related crimes, such as petty theft and burglary.

20 Best reasons NOT to retire to Vietnam! Don't live in Vietnam.

Where do most expats live in Vietnam?

Where Do Expats Live in Vietnam? Expats primarily live in Ho Chi Minh City. Boasting over 100,000 expats, Ho Chi Minh City has English Centers and expat communities. You can enjoy a busy nightlife, engage in business ventures, and meet tons of new people.

Can you buy property in Vietnam as a foreigner?

The compelling points of the Law on Residential Housing (LRH) which dictate foreign property ownership include: Foreigners are permitted to purchase a property just by having a travel tourist visa. Foreigners are permitted to purchase a limitless number of real estate units in the country.

Is Vietnam welcoming to foreigners?

The Vietnamese people are welcoming, generous, and curious about foreigners, which makes this an ideal place to make local friends. It's not unusual to meet a stranger, only to find yourself being invited to their home or to their village just a few hours later.

Is it better to live in Vietnam or Thailand?

Overall. Overall, the cost of living in Vietnam is lower than Thailand, even in a major city such as Ho Chi Minh City. As an expat, you can expect to pay about 20 to 30% less than you would in Thailand, although not everything will be more affordable.

How many American expats live in Vietnam?

In the northern city of Hanoi, you can find many teachers. There are also American expats who fought in the war sprinkled all over the country. There are an estimated 100,000 expats living overseas in Vietnam.

How long can a US citizen live in Vietnam?

How Long can American Citizens Stay in Vietnam? Americans can stay in Vietnam for a maximum of 30 days in Total then will have to leave or do an in-country extension.

What is the cheapest country to retire to?

Why are Americans moving to Vietnam?

More than 58,000 U.S. service members died in the war, and since it ended in 1975, innumerable American veterans have returned to Vietnam, seeking understanding, forgiveness or reconciliation. Now some are coming for more mundane reasons: inexpensive housing, cheap healthcare and a rising standard of living.

Does Vietnam speak English?

Vietnam ranks 31st among 72 countries in the world and seventh among 19 Asian countries in English proficiency, according to the latest annual English Proficiency Index released today by the Swiss Education First (EF), a global language training company.

What is the quality of life in Vietnam?

In 2016, the Happy Planet Index Report found that Vietnam was the happiest country in Asia. Life expectancy in Vietnam also reflects a positive trend in the quality of life for the country. Life expectancy stands at 75.5 years, which is especially impressive when considering the U.S. life expectancy of 77.3 years.

Is Saigon safe to live?

Vietnam is a safe country, but like every city, Ho Chi Minh does have petty crime. Expats should be watchful of their belongings and aware of those around them.

How much does a condo in Vietnam cost?

On average, you'll pay just over USD 2,000 per square meter for a standard apartment in the city. Buying a luxury condo in Ho Chi Minh City often costs upwards of USD 5,000 per square meter though. Naturally, prices vary based on your condo's location.

What can 1 dollar buy you in Vietnam?

What do homes look like in Vietnam?

City homes are often made with brick, wood and/or tile. A traditional northern Vietnamese house is built with mud or brick walls, a thatched or tile roof, and earthen or concrete floors. Large houses are set around a courtyards and are open-fronted with a sloping red-tile roof supported by heavy wooden pillars.

What should I avoid in Vietnam?

Is moving to Vietnam a good idea?

It's one of the safer countries in the world, with lower crime rates than France or Greece (and significantly lower than the US). And while Vietnam is not entirely without its challenges, it's generally pretty easy to navigate day to day aspects of life like finding a place to live, shopping, and getting around.

How can I live permanently in Vietnam?

In order to reside permanently in Vietnam and be eligible for naturalization in Vietnam, you have to apply for a permanent residence card, which has the same validity duration as a visa.