Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Ho Chi Minh City

What is special or unique about your city?

Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's largest city. Its vibrance and timeless charm, combined with a young, educated, enthusiastic work force have moved it back into position as a business leader in Asia.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Most newcomers are surprised at the amount of traffic and the sheer numbers of motorbikes in the city. Initially, it can feel like a challenge just to cross the street, but soon enough, one does get used to the traffic as there does appear to be a method to the madness.

Are these impressions likely to change?

The city changes year to year, as it gets more publicity for tourism and more foreign direct investment. Global influence of television and the internet will add a more "foreign flair" to Ho Chi Minh City in years to come.

What is the local language?

Vietnamese.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

English is spoken everywhere. Taxi drivers can speak a little English, and all foreign restaurants have English-speaking staff. Street signs and store signs are in Vietnamese, but they use the same alphabet as English so they can be read (but often mispronounced) by expats. Learning at least a little Vietnamese will make your life easier. Your efforts to do so will also be appreciated by the locals.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Always be polite, and remember you are a visitorin Vietnam.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

There are six months of rain and heat, plus six months of just heat.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

Ho Chi Minh City is a fast-paced city with very friendly people.

Useful Links

Local news in English / vietnamnews.vnagency.com.vn General country information / vietnamtourism.com Expatriate Magazine / www.asialifehcmc.com

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

Visas are necessary for most foreigners. After the Work Permit is granted you can apply for a Residence Card.

What kinds of visas are available?

There are different visas available, 30 day multiple or single entry and 3 months multiple entry Visa. Once the Work Permit is granted, you can apply for a Residence Card.

What is required to obtain these visas?

Just your passport and a passport size picture. Only citizens of certain countries can visit Vietnam without visa; Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Laos, Philippines, Brunei, Japan, South Korea, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland. No visa is required for Vietnamese overseas staying less than 90 days if holding Vietnam visa exemption certificate. All other citizens are required to get a Vietnam entry visa before departure (Vietnam visa issued prior to departure by Vietnamese Consulates or Embassies) or a pre-approved Vietnam entry visa (visa is issued on arrival at Vietnam’s International Airports) supplied before arrival in Vietnam. Do not attempt to arrive in Vietnam without a VISA or a PRE-APROVED VISA LETTER. Contact Crown HCMC if you have any questions, or your local Vietnamese Consulate

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

Yes. There are plenty of recruitment companies; Manpower, First Alliances, Ernst and Young, DBM Vietnam, ADECCO and many more. If you are interested, let us know, and we will help you contact the right people.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

The passport with a relevant visa is the most important document for a foreigner in Vietnam. You can apply for a Residence Permit once your Work Permit is ready and that is valid as identification too.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

The work permit is important, it's needed for you to work in Vietnam but also a must to import your shipment/ personnel Household Goods and is good to register with your local embassy/consulate upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

Do not bring pornography or books, CDs, DVDs and videos containing anti-communist propaganda, data about the Vietnam war or excessive violence. Please contact Crown Ho Chi Minh City for specific details.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

Obey local laws and always keep your visa updated and valid.

Useful Links

www.vietnamtourism.com www.vietnam-travelservices.com www.e-travelvietnam.com www.asia-planet.net/vietnam/useful-address.htm

 

What is the local currency?

Vietnam Dong (VND).

What denominations does it come in?

In 2004 Vietnam introduced coins for smaller transactions. These are in the form of 200; 1,000 and 5,000 Dong. Other paper denominations include 1,000; 2,000; 5,000; 10,000; 20,000; 50,000; 100,000; 200,000 and 500,000

What is the best way to exchange currency?

Go to a bank or money changer.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Cash (Vietnamese Dong).

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Most places accept credit cards, however they will levy a 3 to 5 percent service charge. Smaller local markets only accept cash.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Most bills are paid with cash.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

To open a bank account you need to provide the following: - Passport - Visa - White entry card or clear entry stamp - Proof of residency For example, you may present a telephone or utility bill The amount required for the initial deposit will vary depending on the account type and the bank. Accounts are easy to open, though you should do this as shortly after arrival as possible.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

Yes.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

No.

What are typical banking hours?

Banks are usually open from 8.30 am to 5.00 pm from Monday to Friday and 8.30 am to 12.30 pm on Saturday. The Automatic Teller Machines (ATM’s) are available for after hour’s withdrawals

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

Yes.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

US dollars can be used and changed everywhere. But Vietnamese Dong (VND) can not be used or changed outside the country.

Useful Links

HSBC Bank / www.hsbc.com Citibank / www.citibank.com ANZ Bank / www.anz.com/vietnam/profile.asp Deutsche Bank / www.db.com Commonwealth Bank / www.commbank.com.au

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Location is key in relation to proximity to schools, shops, place of work as well as for a safe and quiet place for children to play.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

District 2 (An Phu) and 7 (Phu My Hung) are the expat neighborhoods. District 1 and 3 (city) are very common too. Inside Ho Chi Minh City, you will find a mix of older, French-style villas and modern serviced apartments. Expats seeking houses tend to live outside the city, where larger villas with elaborated gardens and swimming pools can be found. The international schools are also located in these areas (District 2 and 7). District 7 (Phu My Hung) is a more modern, new established area with wide roads. It is a preferred area for Asian expatriates, and more and more families are moving there. District 2 (An Phu) is a well known living area especially among the western expatriate community, with its older style of houses and most international schools located here.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Expats rent their homes.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

You must pay a deposit from one to three months' rent.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Utilities are only included for Services Apartments. For houses and apartments utilities are extra.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Ho Chi Minh City is not a dangerous city. However, it is highly recommended to hire a security guard. This is a policy for many companies, so please check with your employer.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

Current is 220 V. Sockets are the rounded, two-prong type.

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

Crown has its own Home Search Team, so please contact us, we are happy to help.

Useful Links

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

International schools.

What are some examples of these schools?

British (BIS), International School of Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC), Australian (AIS) , ACG, Saigon South (SSIS), German (GISS), French, Japanese and Korean International Schools are available.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Yes, there is, but is getting better. There are new schools coming up and the older ones are expanding. Contact Crown Ho Chi Minh City for assistance with selecting and applying to a school.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Yes, nurseries, kindergartens and lots of playgroups are available. Pre-schools are either part of the international schools (nursery), or you also have Smartkids.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Most children are transported by family car or school transport

When does the typical school year start and end?

The school year starts at the end of August and ends in late June, but this varies depending on the school.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

Normally expatriates do not sent their kids to the local schools due to the different level of education and curriculum and the language difficulties. The international schools are preferred by expatriates. Contact Crown if you have any questions, as we work very closely with the school to provide you accurate and up to date information

Useful Links

The British International School / www.bisvietnam.com The International School of Ho Chi Minh City / www.ishcmc.com The Australian International School / www.aisvietnam.com ACG / vietnam.acgedu.com Saigon South International School / www.ssischool.org German International School / www.giss.vn Smartkids (pre-school) / www.smartkidsinfo.com

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.