Your ExpatCommunity in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is home to nearly 10 million people and is rapidly modernizing, with new skyscrapers, malls, and international businesses popping up alongside traditional markets and colonial-era buildings.

While expats enjoy the tropical climate and low cost of living, challenges like traffic and air quality in HCMC are worth bearing in mind. Despite these issues, the city’s dynamic culture and welcoming community make it an appealing destination for many expatriates. 

To live long-term in Ho Chi Minh City, expats can apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC), which allows for extended stays without frequent visa renewals. Eligibility for a TRC includes foreigners with valid work permits, investors in Vietnamese businesses, and family members (spouses and children under 18) of TRC or visa holders.

The application process involves submitting required documents to the Immigration Department in Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll need an application form (NA8), a passport with at least 13 months validity, a work permit (if applicable), proof of residence, photos, and potentially additional documents depending on your specific case.

Processing usually takes about five business days, and fees range from USD 145 for one to two-year TRCs and USD 155 for up to five years. Find more information here.

Monthly expenses vary significantly depending on location, accommodation type, and personal preferences. On average, basic living expenses with a modest lifestyle range from 600 to 950 EUR per month, covering essentials like rent, utilities, food, and transportation. Here’s an overview of what you can expect.

To find a place to live in Ho Chi Minh City, a good way to start is by browsing sites like Housing Saigon and Expat.com’s housing section, which list a variety of rental options across the city.

Prices vary based on the neighborhood, apartment size, and amenities. In popular expat areas like Districts 1, 2, and 7, studio apartments typically start at around 400 USD. Larger, furnished apartments can range from 600 to 1,400 USD or more per month.

Ho Chi Minh City’s healthcare system offers both public and private options, each with distinct advantages and limitations. Public hospitals provide essential services but often face challenges like overcrowding, limited resources, and language barriers, which may not meet the standards many expatriates expect.

In contrast, the city’s private healthcare facilities are well-equipped, with shorter waiting times and English-speaking staff, providing care comparable to international standards. Renowned private hospitals, such as Franco-Vietnamese Hospital (FV), City International Hospital, and Cho Ray Hospital, are popular among expats for their quality and comprehensive services.

Given the differences in healthcare quality, most expats opt for private health insurance, allowing them access to superior services. International health insurance is particularly useful, as it covers specialized treatment in nearby hubs like Bangkok or Singapore. Pharmacies are abundant and typically reliable, but expats are advised to purchase medications from reputable sources within private hospitals to avoid counterfeit products. 

Ho Chi Minh City offers several convenient apps and websites for getting around. Grab, Gojek, and Be are popular ride-hailing apps for motorbike and car rides. For public transport, BusMap and Go!Bus help navigate bus routes, schedules, and real-time tracking. Xanh SM provides eco-friendly electric taxis, while VeXeRe and redBus are ideal for booking intercity bus tickets. For cycling, Mobike offers bike-sharing in some areas. Trusted taxi companies like Vinasun and Mai Linh also have apps for booking rides. These platforms make exploring the city affordable and user-friendly for locals and expats alike.

Do I need to speak Vietnamese in Ho Chi Minh City?  

Vietnamese is the primary language. However, many people working in hotels, restaurants, and cafes (in central areas) have a good grasp of English, making it easier for expats to communicate. Younger locals will be more likely to speak English.

Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can be very helpful, particularly when navigating local markets, using public transportation, or visiting areas where English proficiency may be limited. Overall, English will work in some contexts, but a little Vietnamese goes a long way! 

Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for both residents and visitors, though, like any major city, it’s wise to take precautions, especially at night. Areas such as District 4 and the busy Bui Vien Street in Pham Ngu Lao are lively nightlife spots but can be hotspots for petty crimes like pickpocketing or bag snatching. It’s best to remain vigilant and keep valuables secure. When moving around at night, stick to well-lit, busy areas and consider using reputable transportation options like licensed taxis or ride-hailing services.

Ho Chi Minh City is known for its warm and welcoming attitude towards foreigners. Many expats feel at ease in the city, as locals are often open to engaging with visitors and residents from abroad.

In popular expat areas, such as District 2 or District 7, you’ll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and social gatherings that make it easy to connect with others. While learning some basic Vietnamese phrases is helpful, locals are generally curious, patient, and happy to interact, creating an accessible and enjoyable environment for newcomers.