Accommodation in Vietnam

Renting expat accommodation in Vietnam is generally straightforward, but the process does require some planning and patience. Some expats have accommodation provided for them as part of their employment package, but most need to make their own arrangements.

It’s unwise to commit to a rental contract without viewing the property first. Many newcomers book temporary accommodation like serviced apartments or guesthouses when they first arrive in Vietnam, giving themselves time to explore neighbourhoods and find suitable long-term housing.

Due to Vietnam’s property ownership restrictions for foreigners and the often temporary nature of assignments, most people who relocate to Vietnam choose to rent rather than buy property.

Renting Accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City

Types of accommodation in Vietnam

The types of accommodation in Vietnam vary significantly depending on location and budget. Vietnam’s residential property market has shown tremendous growth, and apartment sales have surged as new developments reshape the skylines of major cities.

In major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find modern high-rise apartments, luxury condominiums, and serviced apartments that meet international standards. The market offers everything from compact studio apartments to spacious three-bedroom units, with many developments featuring amenities like swimming pools, gyms, and 24-hour security. Beyond traditional apartments, Vietnam offers unique property types, including officetel apartments (multi-functional spaces combining residential and office areas) and sky villa apartments (larger units on upper floors with terrace access).

Outside the city centres, you’ll discover more traditional housing options, including standalone houses, villas, and older apartment complexes. Suburban areas typically offer more space and often better value, although the trade-off is usually longer commutes to business districts.

Furnished vs unfurnished

Most rental properties in Vietnam come fully furnished, which is particularly convenient for international residents who don’t want the hassle of purchasing furniture and appliances. Furnished apartments typically include basic furniture, kitchen appliances, air conditioning, and sometimes even bedding and kitchenware.

What is meant by ‘fully furnished’ can vary, so it’s worth clarifying exactly what’s included. Unfurnished properties are less common but may offer better value for long-term residents who prefer to personalise their living space. These properties usually come completely empty, sometimes without even basic fixtures.

Short lets

Short-term accommodation in Vietnam has faced significant regulatory changes. As of 2024, Ho Chi Minh City has banned short-term rentals in residential apartment buildings. The new Housing Law reinforces these restrictions by classifying daily or hourly rentals as hotel operations requiring proper licensing.

Under current regulations, only condotels (tourist-specific developments) and certain mixed-use complexes can legally offer short-term rentals. For temporary housing while you search for permanent accommodation, consider serviced apartments, extended-stay hotels, or monthly rental options through legitimate accommodation providers. These typically fall outside the short-term rental restrictions and offer more reliable, legal alternatives.

Useful links

• Airbnb
• Booking.com
• Agoda

Finding accommodation in Vietnam

Most people find accommodation in Vietnam through online property portals, social media groups, real estate agents, and word-of-mouth recommendations from colleagues and other residents.

Property websites such as Batdongsan.com.vn (Vietnam’s largest property portal), Alonhadat.com.vn, and Cafeland.vn offer extensive listings across different price ranges. Many of these sites include English-language options for international residents.

Real estate agents can be extremely helpful, especially if you don’t speak Vietnamese. They have access to properties that may not be publicly advertised and can negotiate lease terms on your behalf. In Vietnam, tenants typically don’t pay brokerage fees, as these are usually covered by the landlord.

Some people moving to Vietnam will be fortunate enough to have a relocation company working on their behalf, who will assess your preferences and shortlist properties for you to view, making the entire process much smoother.

When viewing properties, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City, take a walk around the surrounding area to check for construction activity. Vietnam’s booming construction industry means building development is common, and major infrastructure projects like the recently opened metro system continue to transform urban environments. Construction noise can be significant, especially on weekend mornings when you might prefer a quiet lie-in.

Useful links

• Batdongsan
• Alonhadat
• Cafeland

Renting accommodation in Vietnam

Making an application

When applying to rent in Vietnam, you’ll need to provide a copy of your passport, work permit (or relevant visa), and your employer’s address. Vietnamese law requires both tenants and landlords to report rental agreements to local ward or district police within 24 hours of signing, so this documentation is mandatory.

Some landlords may also request proof of income or an employment contract, particularly for higher-end properties. The application process is generally straightforward, although having a Vietnamese-speaking contact or agent can help smooth any communication issues.

Leases

Standard lease terms in Vietnam typically range from one to three years, with one-year minimums being the most common. Rent prices are fixed for the duration of the contract, and many lease agreements are written in both Vietnamese and English.

Rent can be paid monthly or quarterly, with some landlords preferring quarterly payments in advance. The lease should clearly outline payment schedules, maintenance responsibilities, security deposit terms, and conditions for renewal or early termination.

Deposits

Security deposits typically range from one to three months’ rent. Apartments usually require one month’s deposit, while condominiums may need two months, and office spaces often require three months. This deposit covers potential damages and unpaid rent.

Ensure the lease agreement clearly states the conditions under which your deposit will be returned and what deductions might be made. Take photos of the property’s condition when you move in to avoid disputes later.

Terminating the lease

Early lease termination requires at least 30 days written notice to your landlord unless your contract specifies different terms. Breaking a lease early may result in forfeiting part or all of your security deposit, depending on the circumstances and your contract’s specific termination clauses.

If you need to leave before your lease expires, discuss options with your landlord early. Some may be willing to negotiate, particularly if you can help find a replacement tenant.

Work Permits in Vietnam

Utilities in Vietnam

You’ll need to budget for monthly utility costs in Vietnam, which are generally quite affordable compared to Western standards. Those living in apartment buildings may also need to pay a management fee covering cleaning, maintenance, security, and building staff salaries.

Electricity

Vietnam Electricity (EVN) is the country’s sole electricity provider, operating as a state-owned monopoly regulated by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. For rental properties, landlords typically handle the initial setup and account management, with costs either included in rent or billed separately to tenants.

Vietnam’s electricity comes primarily from coal (around 59 percent of output), although renewable sources like solar and wind are rapidly expanding and contributed 12 percent of generation in 2024. The power supply is largely reliable.

Most residential customers currently pay a single rate, although EVN is trialling a two-tier pricing system. Commercial users have peak and off-peak pricing structures. You can pay electricity bills through bank transfers, mobile banking apps, or cash payments at EVN offices.

Gas

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is widely used in Vietnam, primarily for cooking, with annual production reaching over 764,000 tons. Given Vietnam’s tropical climate, gas heating systems are uncommon.

Major providers include Petrolimex and other petroleum companies. Gas is typically supplied through refillable cylinders that can be exchanged at local suppliers.

Water

While major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have municipal water systems, tap water is not considered safe to drink directly. Water sources include major rivers like the Dong Nai and Saigon rivers, but ageing infrastructure and treatment limitations mean the water requires additional treatment.

Most international residents boil tap water, use filtration systems, or rely on bottled water for drinking and cooking. Many households install multi-stage water filters or reverse osmosis systems. Bottled water is widely available and affordable throughout Vietnam.

Water bills are typically very low, but the setup process varies by location. In rental properties, landlords often handle the account setup and billing arrangements.

Bins and recycling

Waste collection in major cities is managed by companies like URENCO (Urban Environment Company). The system typically uses communal containers where residents bring their household waste rather than individual coloured bins for different waste types. Building management fees in apartment complexes usually cover waste collection services.

Recycling systems are developing but aren’t as comprehensive as Western countries. Valuable materials like metal and glass are collected by informal networks of waste pickers.

Internet

Vietnam offers excellent internet services, with fibre-optic connections widely available. The three main providers are VNPT (largest market share), Viettel, and FPT Telecom. Many providers offer package deals that include television services.

Vietnam’s internet infrastructure is modern and reliable, with average speeds comparable to developed countries. Most providers offer English-language customer service for international residents.

Keeping in Touch in Vietnam

Useful links

• EVN: Vietnam Electricity Corporation