Why Digital Nomads Should “NOT” move to Vietnam
Vietnam is undoubtedly a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant food scene. The low cost of living, friendly locals, and picturesque beaches also make Vietnam an attractive destination for digital nomads. However, there are certain reasons why digital nomads should think twice before moving to Vietnam. This article aims to shed light on these reasons and help potential nomads make an informed decision.
1. Internet reliability: While Vietnam has been making progress in improving its internet infrastructure, the overall internet reliability still lags behind other countries in the region. Digital nomads heavily rely on stable and fast internet connections to work efficiently. Unfortunately, in Vietnam, you may encounter frequent outages, slow speeds, or even network disruptions, which can be highly frustrating for those trying to meet deadlines or conduct online meetings.
2. Language barrier: The Vietnamese language is notoriously difficult to learn. English proficiency levels remain relatively low, especially outside major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. This language barrier can create challenges in everyday interactions, whether it’s ordering food, communicating with locals, or resolving issues with utilities or landlords. Without basic language skills, digital nomads may find it difficult to navigate daily life effectively.
3. Visa restrictions: Vietnam’s visa regulations can be complex and restrictive for digital nomads. Most travelers are only granted a short-term tourist visa for 30 days, and extending this visa can be a bureaucratic and time-consuming process. Acquiring a long-term visa, such as a business visa or work permit, requires sponsorship from a local company and is often restricted to specific industries. This can be a major obstacle for digital nomads who seek long-term stability and legal residency in Vietnam.
4. Cultural differences: Despite its allure, Vietnam has a distinctly different culture compared to Western countries. From social customs and etiquette to business practices and communication styles, there can be significant cultural differences. Adapting to these differences can be challenging and may affect digital nomads’ ability to build relationships, negotiate contracts, or integrate into local communities.
5. Noise and pollution: Vietnam’s major cities are known for their relentless traffic, constant honking, and chaotic street life. The noise pollution can be detrimental to concentration and productivity, especially when working from cafes or public spaces. Additionally, air pollution levels in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can be concerning, which might affect the health and well-being of digital nomads over time.
6. Healthcare system: While Vietnam does offer affordable healthcare, the quality and accessibility of medical services may not meet the standards that digital nomads are accustomed to in their home countries. There might be language barriers in medical consultations, limited availability of specialized services, and varying levels of cleanliness and hygiene. This is an important consideration, especially for nomads who require regular medical attention or have pre-existing health conditions.
It is crucial for digital nomads to thoroughly research and consider all these factors before deciding to move to Vietnam. While Vietnam can offer an enriching cultural experience and low cost of living, the challenges mentioned above should not be taken lightly. It is advisable to take shorter trips to Vietnam as a digital nomad first to test the waters, evaluate the personal suitability, and explore potential workarounds for the aforementioned challenges. Ultimately, striking a balance between personal preferences and professional requirements is key to making an informed decision about moving to Vietnam.
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I love the Hive in Thao Dien, one of the best chill coworking setup in Vietnam
you contradicting yourself.
10/10 id smash
Why are Hanoi people so cold and rude? Compare to Ho Chi Minh City?
The Hive pool Thao Dien..dipped my feet in there many times …
Van is the most beautiful vietnamese girl
Ótimas dicas, excelente canal para se conhecer o Vietnã (Brazil)
There is one actual downside, however. Those who are finding love as a foreigner must note that there are many people who may take advantage of you, and marry you simply for the immigration benefits, especially if you're American. Remember, always trust your gut.
Accomodation choice isnt cheap! I prefer the local option and spend 2-3 million vnd.
I am not a digital nomad just yet but that may changed. I got married in Saigon June 5 2022. The US government doesn't make it easy or cheap to get a visa for my wife. I am now 75 and my wife is 60, we do not have time to be patient. I was watching a video you made with Phúc Mop and it seems I can get a 5 year visa. I took many photos and videos as a personal video diary with no intention of starting a channel but during the COVID lock down I decided to post a few videos for something to do while locked up at home. I know there are several digital nomads that make a living with a Youtube channel but they work too hard and too many hours. At 75 I do not know if I have the discipline to make my channel a going concern. Maybe when I come back to Vietnam in July to continue our honeymoon I will make more videos and try and make my channel more entertaining. BTW my channel is at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4uo0JpV6WcNO6PDlGXCIsA
Oh yeah? "Don't" come to Vietnam. I knew you meant "why come to Vietnam quick and fast"
You are funny and pretty
Im hoping the digital nomad visa changes soon. I would work remotely as a psychiatric mental health nurse practioner for either a US, Canadian or Australian company so my situation is a bit different. I believe i would still be needing the digital nomad visa, right? I wont be moving for many years more bc i need to complete my studies
How do you open a bank there as a nomad??
Hey Van , any co-working space like where they also provide external screens for people to work? And what are the charges of co working space
What the Pho! Thanks
Wow u will definitely see me in Vietnam, me and my friend plan to visit there in November
wifi =/= internet
those are whiteboard markers not sharpies. You don't want to be using sharpies on whiteboards because it's not erasable
Vietnam aggressiveness has my attention now and I don’t care about friendships and neighbors. I want my land back because I am tired of Vietnam aggressiveness towards Cambodia.
I'm about to retire soon and always thought of moving to Vietnam since i have a passive income.
First look at this site with "Pho". Very nice professional presenter with well structured advice enough to want to leave home for. Thank you Pho, I enjoyed it very much. Brisbane, Australia.
Thinking of moving here for a girl I met on TikTok. This is a great help thanks
whats the best time to move to vietnam
Why are you talking about? The visa is only for 1 month.
VN is too expensive nowaday. Visit and find out for yourself bụt I don't think you should… go to Thailand much better
pretty much the worst country to settle down: constant noise from honking and construction and karaoke, frequent scams, corrupt government
how to find a place with no noise pollution in Vietnam?
Mexican men, Cambodian men are having a lot of fun right now with beautiful and sexy Vietnamese women.