Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), the dynamic southern hub of Vietnam, has transformed into a buzzing center for international business, technology, and innovation. As Vietnam’s largest city, HCMC blends rapid economic growth with a welcoming atmosphere for professionals from around the world. Whether you're considering a career move, exploring entrepreneurship, or joining a multinational corporation, this city offers real potential—but also some unique challenges to prepare for.
HCMC’s economy has seen impressive growth, particularly in technology, electronics, and manufacturing. Alongside these pillars, real estate, logistics, and financial services are rapidly developing, attracting investment from both regional and global markets.
Today, major players like Intel, Samsung, and Nvidia are not just operating in Vietnam—they’re expanding. This momentum has led to job creation across various sectors. The city recorded nearly 60,000 new jobs in Q3 of 2024 alone, especially in trade, ICT, banking, insurance, and science and technology services.
Healthcare and manufacturing are also booming industries, offering strong career prospects for engineers, operations professionals, and technical managers. For those with expertise and relevant qualifications, HCMC is increasingly becoming a land of opportunity.
💡 Tip: International job seekers should ensure they have comprehensive health coverage before relocating. If you’re moving to work in Vietnam, explore your options with providers who specialize in health insurance in Asia, like Pacific Cross.
Vietnam is reshaping its labor policies. Where once it was common to teach English on a tourist visa, today, the bar for foreign employment has been raised. Visa requirements now demand that foreign applicants’ qualifications match the field they’re entering—for example, to teach mathematics, you need a degree in math. It’s part of a wider effort to professionalize the labor force and boost the quality of local education and industry.
At the same time, Vietnam’s goal is to remain attractive to high-value foreign professionals. Talent in sectors such as logistics, warehousing, consulting, tourism, and IT is still in demand—especially among multinational companies looking to expand their presence in Southeast Asia.
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Teaching English used to be the go-to career for expats in Vietnam, but the industry is evolving. A TEFL certificate alone is no longer sufficient. Applicants now need a degree in education or a relevant subject, or at least three years of experience.
There is still demand—especially in reputable institutions such as VUS, ILA, Compass Education, and EMG Education—but competition is stronger, and expectations are higher. Students and parents are looking for skilled educators, not just fluent English speakers.
If you’re considering relocating to HCMC, your best bet is to secure a job before arriving. Not only will this streamline your visa process, but it also protects you from the risks of job-hunting in a new environment. The application process can be bureaucratic, so having a supportive HR team is essential.
Top job search platforms:
While working in Vietnam can be deeply rewarding, adapting to the local work culture takes time. Office hours generally run from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a longer midday break that often includes a nap. Business etiquette leans formal—punctuality and respectful communication are highly valued.
Work-life balance is often more manageable than in countries like Japan or South Korea, though administrative processes can be slow. Don’t be surprised if you spend a fair bit of time filling out paperwork or waiting in government offices.
Relocating for work always comes with a learning curve. Some challenges in HCMC include:
Here’s a general guide to salary ranges in Ho Chi Minh City:
Start-up roles may offer lower salaries but often include other benefits or equity.
For many, moving to Ho Chi Minh City is life-changing—in the best way. With a lower cost of living, rich cultural life, and a gateway to the rest of Asia, HCMC is an ideal place to grow personally and professionally. But preparation is key. Do your research, secure a job in advance, and don’t overlook the importance of health insurance in Asia when planning your move.
At Pacific Cross, we’re here to support expats with flexible, region-specific coverage options that ensure you’re protected while you build your career in Vietnam and beyond.
Ready to make your move? Make sure your health is covered so you can focus on chasing your goals.
