Opening a bank account in Vietnam is one of the first practical steps for foreign residents. It makes salary payments, rent transfers, card payments, and daily mobile banking much easier.
However, the process is not always the same for every foreigner. Your visa type, residence status, work permit, TRC, phone number, and biometric verification can all affect what the bank allows.
Can Foreigners Open a Bank Account in Vietnam?
Yes. Many Vietnamese banks allow foreigners to open personal payment accounts. In practice, banks may apply different requirements depending on whether you are a tourist, employee, long-term resident, business owner, or investor.
For most long-term residents, opening an account is easier when you have a valid visa, temporary residence card, work permit, employment contract, or company support letter.
Do not assume every branch applies the same rule. Even within the same bank, document requirements can differ by branch, location, and your residence status.
Recent Banking News: Biometric Verification Is Becoming More Important
Vietnam has been strengthening banking identity verification rules. VietnamPlus reported that foreign customers without chip-based Vietnamese ID cards may need to visit bank branches so staff can guide biometric registration directly at the counter.
Vietnam News also reported that biometric authentication is becoming a major part of Vietnam’s banking system, including requirements related to new bank cards and online transaction security. For foreigners, this means branch visits and identity updates may become more common.
✔ Vietnam is tightening banking identity verification
✔ Foreigners without chip-based Vietnamese ID may need in-person branch support
✔ Biometric verification is increasingly used for cards and online banking
✔ Foreign residents should keep passport, visa/TRC, and phone number updated with the bank
Bank Account Opening Flow
Choose a
bank branch
Prepare passport
and visa/TRC
Complete KYC
and biometrics
Activate card
and mobile app
Documents Foreigners May Need
Which Banks Are Commonly Used by Foreigners?
Foreign residents commonly use major Vietnamese banks and foreign-invested banks depending on salary payment, branch accessibility, app language, international transfer needs, and employer arrangements.
Practical Tips Before Visiting the Bank
1. Visit a branch in an expat-friendly area
Branches in central districts or business areas may be more familiar with foreign customer documents.
2. Bring original documents, not only photos
Banks usually need to see your original passport and valid stay document.
3. Use your own Vietnam phone number
Your mobile number is linked to OTP, app login, card activation, and security alerts.
4. Ask about online banking limits
Transfer limits, QR payments, card limits, and international transfer rules may differ by bank and account type.
5. Confirm biometric update requirements
If the bank asks for biometric verification, complete it at the branch before leaving.
6. Keep your information updated
If you renew your passport, visa, TRC, or phone number, update the bank record as soon as possible.
Common Problems Foreigners Face
✔ Some banks may reject tourist-only customers
✔ Online registration may not work for foreigners without Vietnamese chip ID
✔ Old passport or expired visa information can block transactions
✔ Biometric verification may require in-person branch visit
Salary Account vs Personal Daily Account
When Should You Be Extra Careful?
✔ Your visa or TRC is close to expiry
✔ You left Vietnam but still keep a local bank account
✔ You cannot access mobile banking after biometric policy updates
✔ Your company changed payroll bank
If any of these apply, visit your bank branch early. Waiting until the account is restricted can make the process more stressful, especially if you are outside Vietnam or need urgent transfers.
Official and News Reference Links
· VietnamPlus — Foreigners advised to visit bank branches for biometric verification: VietnamPlus report
· Vietnam News — People flock to bank branches for biometric verification: Vietnam News report
· Vietnam News — Mandatory biometric authentication for new bank cards: Vietnam News economy report
· Vietnam Banks Association — Banks to comply with biometric verification: VNBA update
✔ VietnamPlus reported that foreign customers without chip-based ID cards can visit bank branches for biometric registration
✔ Vietnam News reported branch congestion before biometric verification rules took effect
✔ Vietnam News reported biometric authentication requirements for new bank cards from 2026
✔ VNBA reported that banks operating in Vietnam must comply with biometric verification requirements
Final Note
Opening a bank account in Vietnam is usually manageable if you prepare the right documents. The key is to choose a bank that understands foreign customers and to complete KYC or biometric verification properly.
For long-term residents, keeping your passport, visa, TRC, address, and phone number updated with your bank is just as important as opening the account itself.