Best Banks in Vietnam for Foreigners (2026)
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.
Top banks expats use
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).
What you need to open an account
- ✓Passport with a valid Vietnamese visa or temporary residence card (TRC)
- ✓Proof of address in Vietnam (rental contract or utility bill — varies by bank)
- ✓A local phone number for SMS/OTP verification
- ✓Some banks open accounts for short-term visa holders; others require a work permit or TRC
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner open a bank account in Vietnam?▾
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.
Which bank in Vietnam is best for foreigners?▾
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.
Do Vietnamese banks have English support?▾
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.