The idea of retiring 10 years early in Vietnam often hinges on the significantly lower cost of living compared to many Western countries, allowing people to stretch their retirement savings much further.¹

Here’s a breakdown of the key factors that make Vietnam an attractive option for early retirement:

1. Low Cost of Living²

Vietnam is consistently ranked as one of the most affordable destinations in Southeast Asia.³

• Monthly Budget: A comfortable lifestyle for a single person can cost an estimated $1,000 to $2,000 per month, depending on location and lifestyle.⁴ Many reports suggest a comfortable-to-middle-class lifestyle is possible for around $800 to $1,200 per month in coastal or smaller cities.⁵
• Rent: Housing is a major cost saver.⁶ A one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City generally ranges from $400 to $800 per month.⁷ Prices are even lower outside city centers or in smaller, popular expat cities like Da Nang, Hoi An, or Da Lat, where a one-bedroom can be as low as $300 to $500 per month.
• Food: Local street food is incredibly inexpensive, with meals often costing just $2 to $5 per dish.⁸ Even dining at a mid-range restaurant is very affordable.⁹

2. Healthcare Affordability

While the public healthcare system is basic, major cities offer modern, private hospitals and clinics that provide quality care at a fraction of the cost found in Western countries.¹⁰

• A routine check-up at a private clinic can cost around $30-$50.¹¹
• Many early retirees choose to combine the affordable local private care with international health insurance for comprehensive coverage.¹²

3. Alternative Lifestyle

The country offers a rich cultural experience, stunning landscapes, and a generally warm climate, appealing to those seeking an adventurous yet relaxed retirement.¹³ Popular destinations include:

• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon):¹⁴ Vibrant, fast-paced, with world-class amenities and a large expat community.¹⁵
• Hanoi: The capital, known for its ancient architecture, street markets, and diverse culinary scene.¹⁶
• Da Nang: A modern coastal city known for its pristine beaches and excellent infrastructure.¹⁷
• Hoi An and Nha Trang: Offer a slower pace, coastal living, and a historic atmosphere.

The Major Challenge: The Visa Situation

The biggest hurdle for retiring early in Vietnam is the lack of a specific, long-term retirement visa.¹⁸ Foreigners wishing to reside long-term must rely on alternative visa options, which can require more paperwork and less stability than a dedicated retirement scheme:¹⁹

• Tourist Visa: Typically allows a stay of 1-3 months and requires frequent “visa runs” (exiting and re-entering the country) or costly extensions.²⁰
• Business Visa (DN Visa): Can be valid for up to 12 months, often requiring a local sponsor or setting up a small business.²¹
• Investor Visa (DT Visa): A longer-term option (1-5 years) that requires a minimum capital investment (e.g., a DT4 visa requires an investment of less than VND 3 billion, or about $125,000 USD).²²
• Temporary Residence Card: May be linked to one of the above visas, offering a longer continuous stay.

In summary, the secret to retiring 10 years early in Vietnam lies in leveraging the extreme cost savings on housing, food, and daily expenses to significantly reduce the size of the required retirement nest egg.²³
However, this move requires a willingness to navigate a more complex visa system than what is offered by some neighboring countries.²⁴