A practical guide for expats: how to open a bank account in Vietnam, what you need, and how the top banks compare on English support and real customer ratings.

Largest state-owned bank, widely accepted, good for receiving international transfers. English app available.

Modern app, strong online banking, popular with younger expats and professionals. Free transfers.

Foreigner-friendly account opening, competitive savings rates, good digital experience.

Reliable private bank, helpful staff at major branches, solid card products.
Fully digital onboarding, 24/7 LiveBank kiosks, strong English-language app.

Huge branch network nationwide — convenient if you live outside big cities.
Ratings are aggregated from public Google Maps reviews. They reflect branch service quality — combine them with your own needs (location, products, English support).
Yes. Most major Vietnamese banks let foreigners open an account with a passport and a valid visa or temporary residence card. Requirements vary — some accept short-term visas, others ask for a work permit or proof of address.
There is no single best bank — it depends on your needs. Vietcombank is best for international transfers and acceptance, Techcombank and TPBank for digital experience, VPBank for foreigner-friendly onboarding. Compare real branch ratings and locations on Ngânfy.
The big banks (Vietcombank, Techcombank, VPBank, ACB, TPBank, BIDV) offer English-language apps and websites. In-branch English varies — larger branches in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are more likely to have English-speaking staff.