9. Vietnam - NEIL CROSSLAND

Retiring in Vietnam

Where Neil lives. The destination serious retirees are choosing before the crowd arrives.

A Note from Neil

“I have lived in Ho Chi Minh City since 2021. I chose Vietnam deliberately — not because it was the easiest option, but because it offered the best combination of cost, quality of life, food, culture, and energy. The visa situation is imperfect, but it is improving. If you are willing to navigate a little complexity, the reward is a lifestyle that would cost three to four times as much in the West.”

— Neil Crossland, Ho Chi Minh City

£1,000–1,300/mo

Single (comfortable)

£1,500–2,000/mo

Couple (comfortable)

£300–500/mo

1-bed apartment (expat area)

No — frozen

UK State Pension uprated?

Important: Vietnam has no dedicated retirement visa

Unlike Thailand or Malaysia, Vietnam does not currently offer a purpose-built retirement visa. This is the most significant practical challenge of retiring here — and the one Neil helps clients navigate.

The most common long-stay routes for retirees are the Business (DN) visa (up to 12 months with a local sponsor), the Investor (DT) visa (1–5 years, requiring a minimum investment of approximately $125,000), and the Family-sponsored visa (up to 5 years, for those with Vietnamese family connections).

Vietnam’s e-visa was extended to 90 days in 2023, which is useful for initial exploration. For longer stays, most retirees work with a local visa agent to maintain legal status through annual renewals or business visa arrangements.

The improving picture: Vietnam is actively working on long-term residency reforms. A proposed “golden visa” valid for 5–10 years was under discussion in 2025, aimed at attracting individuals who contribute economically or culturally. This is a space to watch closely.

Vietnam offers one of the best cost-to-quality ratios in Southeast Asia. A comfortable lifestyle — not a budget one — is achievable for a single person on £1,000–1,300 per month, or a couple on £1,500–2,000 per month. These figures include rent, food, transport, utilities, and entertainment.

Healthcare in Vietnam’s major cities has improved dramatically over the past decade. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi both have international-standard private hospitals with English-speaking staff, modern equipment, and consultation fees that are a fraction of Western costs.

FV Hospital (HCMC) and Vinmec International Hospital (Hanoi and HCMC) are the two most commonly used by expats. Consultations typically cost £25–50. Most procedures cost 50–70% less than equivalent treatment in the UK or Australia.

International health insurance for a 60–65 year old typically costs £100–300 per month depending on coverage level and pre-existing conditions. This is strongly recommended — public hospitals, while improving, are not equipped for complex expat healthcare needs.

Outside major cities: Healthcare quality drops significantly outside HCMC, Hanoi, and Da Nang. If you are considering a smaller city or coastal town, factor in travel time to the nearest international hospital.

Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam’s economic engine. The best private hospitals, the most diverse food scene, and the largest expat community. Fast-paced but endlessly stimulating. Neil’s home base.

Da Nang

Beachside calm with modern infrastructure. Lower cost than HCMC, a growing international hospital network, low crime rates, and a more relaxed pace. Popular with families.

Hoi An

UNESCO World Heritage town. Preserved ancient streets, a strong arts scene, excellent food, and a peaceful, culturally rich atmosphere. Smaller expat community but deeply rewarding.

Exceptional cost-to-quality ratio — one of the best in Asia
Warm, welcoming culture with genuine hospitality
World-class food scene at every price point
International-standard hospitals in major cities
Dynamic, energetic cities that never feel stagnant
Improving visa landscape with long-term reforms underway

No dedicated retirement visa — requires ongoing management
Language barrier outside major cities
Bureaucracy can be slow and opaque
Healthcare quality drops significantly outside HCMC/Hanoi/Da Nang
UK state pension is frozen — no annual increases
Traffic in major cities can be intense

Is Vietnam right for you?

Neil lives here. In a 90-minute Clarity Session, he will tell you honestly whether Vietnam fits your specific circumstances — or whether another destination would serve you better.