Feeling Fruity in Ho Chi Minh City with Jordan H.
It's not the destination, it's the journey. This is Jordan's tale of making an unlikely friend who he will remember forever! During his Teach in Vietnam trip.
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The Vietnam Working Holiday Visa program is your chance to experience Vietnam beyond the usual tourist trail. Whether it’s the buzz of city life, the peaceful countryside, or the amazing food scene, this visa lets you explore it all while earning money along the way. Open to travellers aged 18 to 30, it offers a unique way to work and travel in Vietnam for up to 12 months.
This visa is perfect if you want to:
Whether you’re teaching English, serving coffee, or helping out at a guesthouse, the visa makes it easy to work while soaking in everything Vietnam has to offer.
To qualify for a Vietnam Working Holiday Visa, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
The visa allows you to stay in Vietnam for 12 consecutive months, giving you plenty of time to travel, work, and explore.
The visa is designed to give travellers the freedom to work and travel. Here’s what you can expect:
When it comes to work, it’s important to consider whether you want to use the opportunity to take on short stints to support your travel endeavors or settle in one area to focus on career development and growth. Given the short-term nature of most visas, the majority of employment opportunities will be geared toward temporary or short-term roles.
You’ll find employment opportunities in industries such as:
The visa doesn’t restrict where you can go, so you’re free to explore every corner of the country. Spend your weekends trekking through the northern mountains, diving in the southern waters, or sampling Vietnam’s incredible food markets.
Although Vietnam is a smaller country, it’s rich in cultural diversity and offers a variety of experiences without requiring extensive travel. It’s the perfect destination for those who want to maximise variety without covering large distances.
One of the best things about this visa is its flexibility. You can alternate between working and travelling or even take time to pursue personal interests like learning Vietnamese, volunteering, or joining local community projects.
The cost of the Vietnam Working Holiday Visa typically ranges from USD 45-100, depending on your nationality and the specifics of your application. Other costs to budget for include:
To apply for a Vietnam Working Holiday Visa, you’ll need the following:
Here’s how to apply for a Vietnam Working Holiday Visa:
You can either:
Culture and LifestyleVietnam offers a fascinating blend of traditional customs and modern trends. Social interactions are rooted in respect for elders, collective behaviour, and a strong sense of community. Two major events stand out: the Tết Lunar New Year and the vibrant Mid-Autumn Festival. Everyday life often revolves around morning exercise in parks, tea gatherings, and bustling local markets that are brimming with energy.
Unique Features of Local CuisineVietnam’s culture is richly expressed through its cuisine, which emphasises fresh ingredients and bold flavours. Iconic dishes include pho (noodle soup), banh mi (baguette sandwiches), and bun cha (grilled pork with noodles). Street food plays a vital role in everyday life, offering affordable, authentic meals that provide a window into the nation’s culinary heritage.
Types of Housing
Average Costs:
Transportation
Tips for Getting Around:
Financial Tips
Exploring Vietnam: Popular Places to Visit
Adventures and Activities
Trekking and Hiking: The Sapa and Mai Chau regions, along with Ba Be National Park, are perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Motorcycle Tours: Popular routes include the Hai Van Pass and the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail.
Culinary Experiences: Join cooking classes in Hanoi, Hoi An, or Hue to learn traditional Vietnamese recipes.
Seasons and Climate: Best Time to TravelThe best times to visit Vietnam are spring (March–April) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is mild and rainfall is minimal.
Regional Weather Highlights:
North Vietnam: Cool winters (December–February) and hot summers (May–August).
Central Vietnam: Dry season from February to August, with a rainy season starting in September.
South Vietnam: A tropical climate with a wet season (May–November) and a dry season (December–April).
Once your visa is approved, it’s time to start planning your adventure. Here are a few tips to make the most of your working holiday:
Start searching for jobs before you arrive, or reach out to local businesses once you’re in Vietnam. Networking with other expats can also help.
Even a few phrases will go a long way in connecting with locals. It’s also a great way to show respect for the culture.
While the big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are fantastic, don’t miss out on lesser-known gems like Ninh Binh, Dalat, or Quy Nhon.
Vietnam is affordable, but unexpected costs can arise. Keep a financial buffer for emergencies.
Try local food, attend festivals, and engage with the community. The more you put in, the more rewarding your experience will be.
It’s a visa for travelers aged 18–30 (35 for some countries) to work and travel in Vietnam for up to 12 months.
You must:
Work in industries like:
Visa fees range from USD 45–100. Budget for travel insurance, criminal record checks, and living expenses.
The Vietnam Working Holiday Visa is more than just a way to extend your stay—it’s an opportunity to truly live in and experience Vietnam. From working alongside locals to exploring the country’s diverse landscapes, this visa offers a unique blend of work, travel, and cultural immersion.
If you’re ready for a year of adventure, challenges, and unforgettable memories, the Vietnam Working Holiday Visa might just be the perfect choice.
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If you want to learn about the working holiday visa’s for other countries, we have extensive guides for countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, Italy, Ireland, Korea, Taiwan, Argentina, Chile, Hong Kong and more coming.
Jessie Chambers
Jessie Chambers is the adventurous spirit behind the Global Work & Travel blog. A passionate globetrotter, Jessie has explored over 30 countries.
It's not the destination, it's the journey. This is Jordan's tale of making an unlikely friend who he will remember forever! During his Teach in Vietnam trip.
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