Vietnam, the New Destination for Digital Nomads in Southeast Asia

After Bali and Thailand, digital nomads and freelancers are now turning their attention to Vietnam. Who hasn’t dreamed of working under a palm tree, facing the sea, sipping a coconut? If you have to work only from your laptop, without a fixed office, you might as well do it in the sun. That’s the bet of a growing category of workers and entrepreneurs: digital nomads.

Bali remains an iconic destination for digital nomads, but Vietnam now attracts those seeking a more authentic environment and lower cost of living, while still enjoying rapidly developing infrastructure.

An Accessible Country at the Heart of Southeast Asia

Vietnam boasts a well-developed air network with 22 civil airports, including 12 international and 10 domestic. The country records more than 500 domestic flights daily, making long-distance travel and weekend trips easy. Furthermore, thanks to its central location in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is connected to most major regional cities within just a few hours of flight. Its strategic position makes it an ideal base for digital nomads wanting to explore the region while working remotely.  

Easier Visas for Expats and Digital Nomads

The main obstacle to remote work in Vietnam used to be visa acquisition, but legislation has adapted quickly. Several visa options are now available depending on your plans — a 90-day visa, a business visa, and more. For more details, consult our immigration page.

Reliable Internet Connection for Remote Work

Digital services are expanding rapidly. Over 85% of Vietnamese people now own a mobile phone, and this digital boom comes with widespread Internet access: customizable 5G SIM plans, WiFi in most cafés and restaurants. Internet in Vietnam is fast and stable — perfect for remote work and video calls.

In neighborhoods popular among expats, infrastructure for remote workers is multiplying: international cafés, coworking spaces — all air-conditioned, comfortable, and friendly. These are ideal spots to meet other digital nomads and expatriates.

Building Your Network

In every major city, certain districts are increasingly populated by expats and digital nomads alike. This creates hubs where meeting new people and forming a circle is easy. Sports clubs, cafés, bars, and coworking spaces offer numerous opportunities for connection. Networking events are also held weekly, fostering relationships among expats and entrepreneurs. This community aspect makes Vietnam a top choice for digital nomads looking to combine work, social life, and discovery.

A Stable and Safe Country for Expats

Vietnam is politically stable and socially peaceful, making it one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia, with a low crime rate. Both travelers and expats appreciate the daily sense of safety — it’s pleasant to walk the streets at any hour, even alone. This stability encourages economic growth and the rapid development of infrastructure, making Vietnam an ideal destination for settling in Southeast Asia.

Easy Access to Quality Healthcare

Vietnam’s healthcare system has modernized considerably in recent years. In major cities, international hospitals and private clinics provide high-quality medical services. Staff are often trained abroad and speak multiple languages — unlike public hospitals, where Vietnamese is the only language spoken. Consultations, tests, and treatments are often more affordable than in Europe, while maintaining high standards. Many international health insurance plans are available for expats and digital nomads to cover medical expenses.

 

High Quality of Life for a Low Cost

The cost of living in Vietnam is very favorable for foreigners. Expenses are a key factor when starting out as a digital nomad, sometimes without steady income at first. It’s possible to live comfortably in major Vietnamese cities on a monthly budget of €800 to €1,200. One of Vietnam’s highlights is its street food culture — you can dive straight into local life by enjoying freshly made Vietnamese dishes among locals for under two euros.

Major Vietnamese cities also offer modern infrastructure: shopping malls, rooftops, connected cafés, and coworking spaces — all providing digital nomads with a practical and pleasant living environment. Wellness treatments are also very affordable: massages, spas, facials, hair care. It’s easy to balance work and relaxation without breaking the bank.

For more information, check out our cost of living in Vietnam page

Experiencing Vietnamese Culture Every Day

It’s impossible to live in Vietnam without being immersed in its rich and vibrant culture. Whether in the countryside or in expat neighborhoods, you’ll be amazed: the bustling yet fluid traffic of scooters, the delicious Vietnamese street food, the warm smiles of locals. Even if you’ll likely rely on Google Translate, you’ll find countless opportunities to connect with Vietnamese people.

Diverse Landscapes and Activities for Every Taste

From mountains and rice fields to beaches and legendary bays, Vietnam overflows with breathtaking landscapes. In the North, must-see spots like Ninh Binh, Sapa, Ha Giang, and Halong Bay are easily accessible from Hanoi. The country’s narrow central region lets you travel from the mountains to coastal cities like Hue, Danang, or Hoi An in about an hour. In the South, Ho Chi Minh City is only two hours away from beaches or hiking spots like Vung Tau, Mui Ne, or Tay Ninh.Diving, snorkeling, trekking, trail running — Vietnam is a perfect playground for those who love combining work and adventure.

Vietnam captivates visitors with its affordable cost of living, authentic culture, reliable digital infrastructure, and spectacular scenery. Today, it stands as one of the most promising destinations for digital nomads seeking an enriching experience that blends work, discovery, and quality of life.

Read also: Which destination to choose as a digital nomad in Vietnam?