Your Guide to Opening a Bank Account in Vietnam
Are you curious about opening a bank account in Vietnam? It can make your life easier as an expat. A local bank account lets you manage money, pay bills, and get payments easily.
There are many types of accounts, like savings and current accounts. You can pick the best one for you. This makes handling money in Vietnam simpler.
Thinking about a bank account in Vietnam? You’ll need a passport, visa, or resident card. Also, proof of where you live, like a rental contract or utility bill.
By following the right steps and picking the right bank, you’ll enjoy many benefits. You can get to your money, pay bills, and receive payments. This makes life as an expat much better.
Understanding the Importance of a Local Bank Account
Having a local bank account in Vietnam makes life easier. You can get to your money fast and pay bills without trouble. It also lets you get paid and make deals with others easily.
It’s key to know the rules for a bank account in Vietnam. You need to know what papers you need and how to open an account. Some banks, like Timo, have a mobile app and don’t ask for a big deposit to start.
Having a local bank account also means you can use QR code payments. This is super handy, thanks to digital wallets like Momo wallet. Knowing the banking rules and having a bank account in Vietnam can really help your daily life.
Popular banks for foreigners in Vietnam include Vietcombank, Vietinbank, Sacombank, and ACB. It’s important to pick a bank that fits your needs. Look at fees, services, and how easy it is to use.
Bank | Services | Fees |
---|---|---|
Vietcombank | Online banking, mobile app | Varies |
Vietinbank | Online banking, mobile app | Varies |
Sacombank | Online banking, mobile app | Varies |
ACB | Online banking, mobile app | Varies |
Types of Bank Accounts Available in Vietnam
When you think about opening a bank account in Vietnam, it’s key to know the different types. The right bank for you depends on what you need, like saving money or handling everyday money. To start, you’ll need to show your ID and where you live.
Here are some common bank accounts in Vietnam:
- Savings accounts give you interest on your money and are great for saving long-term.
- Current accounts let you easily get to your money and are good for daily use.
- Foreign currency accounts help you manage money in other currencies, like US dollars or euros.
It’s important to look at each account’s features and benefits. Also, think about the bank’s services, like online banking, debit/credit cards, and sending money abroad.

Choosing the Right Bank for Your Needs
Choosing a bank in Vietnam means looking at fees, interest rates, and customer service. As an expat, you need a bank that fits your needs. Look for an expats bank account Vietnam for easy international transactions. VietinBank and Vietcombank are great for expats because they offer many services and have English-speaking staff.
Think about the minimum deposit and how much you need to keep in the account. Some banks start with just 100,000 VND (4.10 USD). Also, check the fees for withdrawals, as some banks don’t charge for VND withdrawals.
For more info on living costs in Vietnam, visit this website. It talks about average costs and prices in the area. Banks like HSBC and Citibank are popular for expats. They offer many services, including cards and online banking. The best bank for you depends on your needs and what you like. So, research and compare different banks.
By thinking about these points and doing your homework, you can find a great bank in Vietnam. Some banks, like Timo, have good online services and mobile apps. Others, like VietQR Napas247, make money transfers easy with QR codes. With the right bank, managing your money in Vietnam can be easy.
Required Documents for Opening a Bank Account
To open a bank account in Vietnam, you need some important documents. These include your ID and proof of where you live. You’ll need a form to open your account, a copy of your passport, and a valid visa for Vietnam.
If you have a job contract, bring a copy of it too. You also need to have some money to start with.
Some banks, like HSBC and Agribank, welcome foreigners with open arms. HSBC has accounts for different currencies, and Agribank is for those living legally in Vietnam. But, if you can’t get a bank account, Wise and Revolut have solutions for you.
The interest rates at Vietnamese banks are pretty good. They offer 6.9% to 7.8% interest on deposits in Vietnamese dong. Remember, banks stopped accepting foreign currency deposits on September 5, 2019.
Bank | Account Type | Minimum Deposit |
---|---|---|
HSBC | Multi-currency | Varies |
Agribank | Current and Savings | Varies |
Wise | Multi-currency | No minimum balance |
Revolut | Multi-currency | No minimum balance |

The Step-by-Step Process to Open an Account
Opening a bank account in Vietnam is easy if you know the steps. First, pick the right bank for you. Look at the bank account requirements and services of different banks. Popular banks for foreigners include Asia Commercial Bank (ACB), ANZ Bank, Techcombank, and Vietcombank.
After choosing a bank, go there and apply. You can open a bank account in Vietnam in about 10 minutes. You’ll need your passport, visa, and proof of address. Most banks don’t charge for opening an account.
Once you apply, your bank card will arrive in 3-7 days. Some banks might charge 50,000–100,000 VND ($2-$4) for a card. Also, using another bank’s ATM can cost between VND 20,000 to VND 55,000.
Here are some key things to consider when opening a bank account in Vietnam:
- Research and select the right bank that meets your needs
- Visit the bank and submit your application
- Provide the required documents, including your passport, visa, and proof of address
- Be aware of any fees associated with opening and using your account
By following these steps and considering your options, you can easily open a bank account in Vietnam and start managing your finances. For more information on How to Open a Bank Account in Vietnam and bank account requirements, you can visit the website of the State Bank of Vietnam or contact a bank directly.
Bank | Account Opening Fee | ATM Fee |
---|---|---|
Vietcombank | Free | VND 20,000 – VND 55,000 |
Techcombank | Free | VND 20,000 – VND 55,000 |
ANZ Bank | 50,000 – 100,000 VND | VND 20,000 – VND 55,000 |
Understanding Fees and Charges
Banking in Vietnam has fees and charges you should know. The Vietnam banking regulations say banks charge about 50,000 VND a month for accounts. Some banks also charge extra for online banking, from 10,000 VND.
Here are some common fees in Vietnam:
- Minimum deposit required: 50,000 VND
- Monthly account maintenance fee: 50,000 VND
- Fee for shipping the bank card to your house: 30,000 VND
Some banks don’t charge account fees the first year. Also, foreigners need permission to stay over 12 months to open a bank account in Vietnam.
Knowing these fees helps you choose the right bank. It also helps you avoid surprises with your foreigner bank account Vietnam. By understanding Vietnam banking regulations, you can enjoy your banking experience without extra costs.
Common Banking Fees in Vietnam
Banks in Vietnam charge for opening accounts, with different prices. ATM withdrawal fees range from VND 1,100 to VND 3,300, depending on the bank. Each bank has its own limits for withdrawals.
Setting Up Online Banking
When you open a bank account in Vietnam, setting up online banking is key. It lets you manage your money from home. The best bank in Vietnam offers online services that meet your needs.
To start online banking, you need to give some personal and account details. This includes your account number and password. Some banks in Vietnam let you open an account online with just an ID card or passport. Plus, some banks give free services for opening an account online.
Here are some online banking benefits:
- Convenience: Access your account info and make transactions anytime, anywhere.
- Security: Online banking uses top security to keep your info safe.
- Time-saving: Skip bank lines and save time by managing your finances online.
When picking the best bank in Vietnam for online banking, look at their requirements and services. Some banks need a minimum balance or specific account types. Knowing these details helps you choose the right bank for you.
Bank | Online Banking Services |
---|---|
Vietcombank | Account opening, fund transfer, bill payment |
VPBank | Account opening, fund transfer, bill payment, account management |
Currency Exchange and International Transactions
Living in Vietnam as an expat means you need to handle your money well. This includes knowing about expats bank account Vietnam and what you need for a bank account. When you do international deals, knowing how to exchange money is key to not losing money. Foreign investors in Vietnam must have a foreign currency bank account for all deals in foreign money.
This account helps with many things like getting money from abroad and paying loans to companies outside Vietnam.
It’s important to know about exchange rates to make smart choices with your money. Using a US bank account can save you money on fees, with some services cutting fees by a certain percent. Also, a US bank account can help you save on conversion fees when you pay in USD in Vietnam.
To get a US bank account, you need to show some documents and wait for approval. This can take some time.
Some important things to remember about money exchange and international deals are:
- Learn about different exchange rates and how to get the best one
- Use a foreign currency account for things like money from abroad, loan payments, and sending profits
- Look for services that offer lower fees and save on conversion fees
By keeping these tips in mind and understanding money exchange, you can manage your expats bank account Vietnam well. This makes international deals easier and ensures you meet all bank account needs.
Tips for Managing Your Account Effectively
To get the most out of your bank account Vietnam, manage it well. Watch your transactions and know your monthly statements. This keeps your account safe and helps you use your bank’s services.
When you open bank account in Vietnam, know the fees. Some banks charge a fee to open an account. Fees differ by bank. Also, check the minimum deposit needed, as it changes by bank and account type.
Opening a corporate bank account in Vietnam takes 1 to 3 weeks. Local banks are quicker than international ones. Some banks have strict rules to know who you are, which might slow things down.
Manage your account by watching your transactions and monthly statements. This helps spot any odd activity and keeps your account safe. Follow these tips for a smooth banking experience in Vietnam.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Opening or managing a bank account in Vietnam can have problems. Knowing how to fix these issues is key for a smooth banking experience. Some banks in Vietnam might not serve foreigners, or they might have limited services for them.
To avoid these problems, it’s important to know the rules for banking in Vietnam. You should look into the different bank accounts and what documents you need to open one. You might also want to think about opening a joint account with a spouse who is a full citizen in Vietnam, as some expats suggest.
If you run into issues with your bank account, you can reach out to your bank’s customer service. Many banks in Vietnam have a team ready to help with your questions and problems. You can also use online banking to easily access your account and manage your money from anywhere.
Some common problems with bank accounts in Vietnam include errors, transaction issues, and customer service problems.
Here’s how to fix these issues:
- Contact your bank’s customer service team
- Give them the documents and info they need
- Do what they tell you to do
By following these steps and knowing the banking rules in Vietnam, you can solve common problems. This will help you have a smooth banking experience in Vietnam.
Bank | Minimum Deposit | Debit Card Issuance |
---|---|---|
Vietcombank | 100,000 VND | Yes |
Citibank | 50,000 VND | No |
HSBC | 100,000 VND | Yes |
Understanding the banking rules in Vietnam and what you need for a foreigner bank account can help. This way, you can avoid common problems and have a smooth banking experience. Always do your research and compare different bank accounts and services.
Staying Informed About Banking Regulations
Starting your journey to open a bank account in Vietnam? It’s key to know the latest banking rules.
Vietnam has a 10% value-added tax (VAT) on most things. Personal income tax (PIT) for locals ranges from 5% to 35%. Non-residents pay a flat 20%. Knowing these taxes helps you follow the rules and manage money well.
Foreigners need to stay 12 months to open a bank account in Vietnam. Companies must open an account if they spend over 20 million VND. Keeping up with these rules makes banking easier and avoids problems.
It’s important to check your account often, understand your monthly statements, and know about fees in Vietnam. If you have issues, quickly contact customer service. This keeps your banking smooth.
By knowing and following Vietnam’s banking rules, opening and managing your account goes smoothly. This knowledge lets you make smart financial choices and handle your money with confidence.