Can you live in Vietnam with only English?

Yes, it is possible to live in Vietnam with only English, particularly in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang, where many locals and expats communicate in English. While English is not widely spoken everywhere and rural areas may present challenges, essential services, apps like Grab, and a welcoming culture make daily life manageable for English-only speakers.

Can you live in Vietnam if you only speak English?

Two of the most popular neighbourhoods with English-speaking expats include Tay Ho in Hanoi and Binh Thanh in Ho Chi Minh City. Once you are a bit more settled, you might find life in other cities appealing, especially those on Vietnam's beautiful coast.

Can you live in Vietnam as an UK citizen?

If you want to stay in Vietnam, you must do so legally and with the right visa. Direct your visa-related enquiries to the nearest Immigration office. We are aware that some foreigners have been using visa companies to submit visa applications to extend their stay in Vietnam without leaving the country.

Are Brits welcome in Vietnam?

Visa requirements

You can visit Vietnam without a visa for up to 45 days for tourism or business. On arrival, your passport will be stamped with an entry and exit stamp (the date you have to leave by).

How long can a Brit stay in Vietnam?

As of 2026, UK (British) nationals traveling to Vietnam for tourism or short business trips can stay for up to 45 days without a visa. UK (British) passport holders are also eligible for the 90-day e-Visa program if they plan to stay longer in Vietnam.

𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗧𝗡𝗔𝗠 - The Pros And Cons Of Living Or Retiring In Vietnam

How much does a house cost in Vietnam?

The property cost in Vietnam depends on the type, area, number of rooms, proximity to the sea, and city. Premium properties on the first line are more expensive. A house in the suburbs can be purchased for $100,000. In Hanoi, villas are offered at a price of $500,000 and above.

Is Thailand cheaper or Vietnam?

Vietnam is slightly cheaper for stays and food, while Thailand is cheaper for flights. Overall, they balance out.

How long will $100,000 last in Vietnam?

🇻🇳 Vietnam – 6.3 years 3. 🇲🇽 Mexico – 5.8 years 4. 🇵🇹 Portugal – 4.3 years 5. 🇪🇸 Spain – 4.0 years 6.

Can I still receive social security if I move to Vietnam?

If you are a United States citizen, you may continue to receive payments while outside the U.S. You must be eligible for payments and you must be in a country where we can send payments. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must meet one of the conditions for payment described in the next section.

Which country is the easiest to retire to from the UK?

The easiest countries for UK retirees often include Portugal, Spain, and Greece due to their warm climates, lower cost of living, established expat communities, and straightforward residency options like Portugal's D7 Visa or Spain's Non-Lucrative Visa, offering good healthcare access and simple driving license exchange, with Portugal frequently cited as a top choice for its affordability and lifestyle. Other strong contenders are Malta, with favourable tax, and Costa Rica, offering low costs and no foreign pension tax. 

Can a Brit move to Vietnam?

For short stays, a tourist visa is typically sufficient, but for longer stays or if you're relocating for work or family reasons, you may need a business or temporary residency visa. A temporary resident visa (DT visa) will typically be valid for between one and three years.

Where do most expats live in Vietnam?

In big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you will have more options for accommodation as well as job opportunities. Tay Ho (Hanoi) and Binh Thanh (Ho Chi Minh City) are the 2 most famous and popular expat areas in these 2 cities.

Is $4000 a month good in Vietnam?

Absolutely yes, $4000 a month in Vietnam is considered an excellent salary in Vietnam. You are earning almost 12 times Vietnam's average salary . $4000 (Approx 100 million VND) will allow you to afford: A luxury apartment or house in the city.

What is safer, Thailand or Vietnam?

Crime rates against travelers are low in either country of Southeast Asia. Still, they are a bit higher in Thailand since more travelers visit the kingdom. Bad weather and natural disasters aren't a major safety concern if you are up to date and don't take unnecessary risks.

How long will $100,000 last in Thailand?

🇹🇭 Thailand – 6.7 years 2. 🇻🇳 Vietnam – 6.3 years 3. 🇲🇽 Mexico – 5.8 years 4.

Can British buy a house in Vietnam?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Vietnam, but there are a number of important restrictions you need to know about. The good news though is that you don't necessarily need to be a resident of Vietnam to buy property there.

How much is 1 pound to a dong?

£ 1 GBP = ₫ 35236.8239 VND

Last updated Monday, 19 January 2026 13:53. Rates shown are interbank rates. eurochange rates will differ.