Living permanently in Vietnam is a real immersion into the Asian lifestyle. Vietnam is a developing country with a dense population living in a territory no bigger than half of France. This country is often associated with war and a centralized system with an oppressive planned economy. Today, however, it has become an increasingly popular destination for tourists and the beautiful scenery is becoming more and more popular.

In this relatively small country, home to a population comparable in size to that of France, live 54 officially recognized ethnic groups. Among them, the Kinh (or Viet) form the majority, playing a central role in the nation’s economic growth and development, as well as holding most administrative positions.

Vietnam: The New Destination For Expatriates

Vietnam is becoming increasingly popular as a destination for expatriates and in recent years, the country has experienced both a period of peace and a reputation as a stable and safe place for foreigners who want to work there. The reasons are mainly the tropical climate, the low cost of living, a fascinating culture and notable improvements in infrastructure. However, there are disadvantages inherent to a poor developing country: pollution, a real ecological scourge where people wear masks not to inhale gases and dust; traffic jams during rush hour that can sometimes paralyze the city; and traffic accidents, with Vietnam being one of the most deadly countries.

The Cost Of Living

The cost of living in Vietnam is relatively low and expatriates can have a lifestyle more than adequate. The range of accommodation is large and all the wallets can find their suitability in any type of apartment or house, in the city center or in its suburbs. The choice is wide.

However, there is a difference between Vietnamese food and Western food in that if Vietnamese food is very cheap, with dishes like phở at 1 euro, it is not the same for restaurants and restaurants. Western bars where prices are the same or even more expensive than in Europe. To live in Vietnam is to live like Vietnamese, with cheap beer but where to drink wine is a luxury here.

Work In Vietnam

In Vietnam, the official language is Vietnamese, but English is considered a popular language in the world of work, especially with foreign clients and investors. Working in an international company is often synonymous with job security and a profitable source of income. That's why more and more Vietnamese are learning English. In the majority of cases, they ask for courses given by a national of an English-speaking country. It is the main sector where expatriates can find a job easily. Other languages ​​such as French also find its audience, and France, through the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Vietnam (CCIFV) and the French-speaking tourism sector contribute to providing career opportunities in Vietnam.

What To Know Before Living In Vietnam

Here are some key points to know before coming to live in Vietnam:

• Visas are to be requested from the embassies and the work permit is mandatory: Vietnam does not issue a visa for some countries, so check that his country is eligible for the issuance of the visa and therefore the work permit;
• Foreigners are not allowed to drive without being in possession of a Vietnamese driving license. Only motorcycles are allowed for non-Vietnamese, with a passport and the driving license of the country of origin in his possession;
• Dong is the currency in force but one can buy luxury goods or properties with euro or US dollars;
• Non-Vietnamese have the right to buy a lease on land for a period of 50 years to build a house but the purchase of this land is exclusively for Vietnamese.

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