Country Guide Living in Vietnam as an Expat
0 businesses across 1 city — curated by the expat community
Why expats choose Vietnam
Vietnam is increasingly on the radar of digital nomads and expats looking for an affordable, culturally vibrant, and strategically located base in Southeast Asia. The country offers a unique combination of rapid modernisation and preserved tradition, with world-class food, friendly locals, and an astonishingly low cost of living.
Da Nang, Vietnam's third largest city, has emerged as one of Asia's most compelling expat destinations. Situated on a beautiful stretch of beach between Hội An and Huế, it offers the infrastructure of a modern city — fast internet, international hospitals, good international schools, and an active expat community — without the density and pollution of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
Vietnam's visa situation has evolved in recent years: the e-visa allows 90-day stays and has been extended to 150+ nationalities. For longer stays, business visas and the emerging digital nomad visa pathway offer more flexibility. Healthcare in Da Nang has improved significantly with modern private clinics, though for complex medical needs Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City are preferable. The cost of living is exceptionally low — comfortable living on $800–$1,500/month is realistic for most expats.
Expat cities in Vietnam
Frequently asked about living in Vietnam
What visa options are available for long-term stays in Vietnam? +
Vietnam's e-visa (DL) allows 90-day single or multiple entry stays for 150+ nationalities. Business visas (DN) allow longer stays with easier extensions. Vietnam introduced a 5-year multiple-entry e-visa for certain nationalities in 2023. A dedicated digital nomad visa doesn't yet exist officially, but business visa extensions with a local sponsor are the most common route for long-term residents.
How much does it cost to live in Da Nang as an expat? +
Da Nang is one of Southeast Asia's most affordable expat cities. Comfortable living costs $800–$1,500/month including a modern apartment, eating out frequently, transport (motorbike + ride apps), and leisure. Street food meals cost $1–2; restaurant meals $3–8. International supermarkets stock imported goods at reasonable prices.
Is healthcare in Da Nang good for expats? +
Da Nang has improved its private medical infrastructure significantly. Family Medical Practice Da Nang and Vinmec Da Nang International Hospital offer English-speaking doctors and good general care. For complex specialist treatment, Ho Chi Minh City or international travel is usually recommended. Comprehensive international health insurance is essential.
Is it safe to live in Da Nang as an expat? +
Da Nang is consistently ranked among Vietnam's safest cities. Violent crime against foreigners is very rare. Petty theft is less common than in tourist-heavy Hội An or Ho Chi Minh City. The main hazards are motorbike traffic (always wear a helmet) and the occasional tropical weather events like typhoons in autumn. The expat community is welcoming and well-organised.
Is internet connectivity good in Da Nang for remote work? +
Yes — Da Nang has excellent, fast internet infrastructure. Fibre connections through VNPT, Viettel, or FPT are affordable and widely available. Average home speeds of 100–200 Mbps are common at very low monthly costs. The city has a growing number of co-working spaces catering specifically to the digital nomad community.
