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Vietnam Relocation
Checklist

The definitive 100-point roadmap for your move. Organized by strategic timeline — from 6 months out to your first month on the ground.

15 categories covering every aspect of relocation
Timeline-based: know exactly what to do and when
Pro tips & common mistakes to avoid
Printable PDF — check items off as you go
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Used by 500+ expats relocating to Vietnam

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3-6 Months Before

  • Research visa options for your nationality
  • Join expat Facebook groups (Expats in HCMC, Vietnam Expats)
  • Start learning basic Vietnamese phrases
  • Research neighborhoods (District 1, 2, 7, Thao Dien)
  • Get international health insurance quotes
  • Check passport validity (6+ months remaining)

1-3 Months Before

  • Apply for visa or visa approval letter
  • Book first week accommodation (hotel/Airbnb)
  • Notify your bank of travel plans
  • Get international driving permit (if needed)
  • Download essential apps (Grab, Google Translate)
  • Exchange some cash to VND

1-2 Weeks Before

  • Pack light — you can buy everything in Vietnam
  • Bring important documents (copies + digital)
  • Set up VPN on your devices
  • Download offline maps
  • Research SIM card options

First Week in Vietnam

  • Get local SIM card
  • Open bank account (with work permit) or use Wise
  • Explore neighborhoods before signing lease
  • Register with local police (landlord usually does this)
  • Find your favorite coffee shop

First Month

  • Sign apartment lease
  • Set up utilities (electricity, water, internet)
  • Find gym / yoga / activities
  • Build your social circle
  • Establish routines

Documents Checklist

  • Passport (6+ months validity)
  • Visa or visa approval letter
  • Travel insurance policy
  • Flight tickets
  • Accommodation booking (first week)
  • Cash (USD/VND)
  • Credit/debit cards
  • Digital copies of all documents

Banking & Finance

  • Notify home bank of travel
  • Set up Wise account
  • Research local banks (Vietcombank, Techcombank)
  • Plan monthly budget
  • Set up international money transfer

Housing

  • Research neighborhoods
  • Book temporary accommodation (first week)
  • Visit apartments in person
  • Check lease terms (deposit, notice period)
  • Understand utilities setup

Healthcare

  • Get international health insurance
  • Research hospitals/clinics in your area
  • Bring prescription medications
  • Get vaccinations (check requirements)
  • Research local pharmacies

Transportation

  • Download Grab app (ride-hailing)
  • Consider buying motorbike (after settling in)
  • Get international driving permit
  • Learn local traffic rules
  • Research public transport options

Communication

  • Get local SIM card (Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone)
  • Set up VPN
  • Download messaging apps (Zalo)
  • Test internet connection
  • Set up local phone number

Employment / Remote Work

  • Research work permit requirements
  • Check visa options for working
  • Network with expats
  • Research local job market
  • Consider remote work options

Social Integration

  • Join expat Facebook groups
  • Attend expat meetups
  • Find language exchange partners
  • Join hobby groups
  • Be open to new experiences

Cultural Preparation

  • Learn basic Vietnamese phrases
  • Research local customs / etiquette
  • Understand tipping culture
  • Learn about local holidays
  • Be respectful of local traditions

Safety & Security

  • Research common scams
  • Keep digital copies of documents
  • Get travel insurance
  • Know emergency numbers
  • Register with embassy

What NOT to Do

Critical Expat Mistakes

✕Don't book long-term housing before arriving
✕Don't bring too much luggage
✕Don't overpack — you can buy everything there
✕Don't ignore visa requirements
✕Don't assume English is widely spoken
✕Don't skip travel insurance
✕Don't forget to notify your bank

Pro Tips

NestAbroad Insider Intel

Stay in a hotel/Airbnb the first week to explore neighborhoods
Join expat groups BEFORE you arrive
Learn basic Vietnamese — locals appreciate it
Be patient with bureaucracy
Embrace the chaos — it's part of the experience
Build relationships with neighbors
Try local food from street vendors
Negotiate prices (except in malls)
Keep copies of everything
Stay flexible and adaptable

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