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Healthcare Costs in Vietnam: What Expats Need to Know
As trusted experts in expat health insurance in Asia and official CFE representative, Alea provides all the essential information you need.
Last update:
8th May 2025
8th May 2025
As trusted experts in expat health insurance in Asia and official CFE representative, Alea provides all the essential information you need.
Last update: 8th May 2025
Living in Vietnam as an expatriate offers many opportunities, but navigating the healthcare system can be challenging. Between public hospitals, private clinics, and international medical facilities, the cost and quality of care vary significantly. A simple consultation can range from hundreds of thousands to several million VND, and without expat health insurance, medical expenses can quickly become a financial burden.
As trusted experts in expat health insurance in Asia and official CFE representative in China and Hong Kong, Alea provides all the essential information you need.
1. Understanding Vietnam’s Healthcare System: Public vs. Private
Vietnam has a dual healthcare system:
- Public hospitals: Very affordable but not well-suited for expatriates.
- Private hospitals & international clinics: More expensive but offer higher-quality care.
Public Hospitals: Low Cost but Limited Services
Pros:
- Very low fees (a consultation costs between 50,000 and 300,000 VND (2 - 11 EUR)).
- Hospitals available in all major cities.
Cons:
- Long waiting times.
- Limited English-speaking medical staff, making communication difficult.
- Lower hygiene and medical equipment standards compared to Western hospitals.
- Cash payment required upfront for consultations, tests, and medications.
While expats can use public hospitals, language barriers and inconsistent service quality make this option less attractive.
Private Hospitals & International Clinics: The Preferred Choice for Expats
Most expats prefer private hospitals or international clinics, which provide healthcare closer to Western standards.
Pros:
- English-speaking (and sometimes French-speaking) doctors and staff.
- Premium services, including longer consultations and personalized follow-ups.
- Faster access to specialists.
Cons:
- 5 to 10 times more expensive than public hospitals.
- Immediate payment required before treatment.
- Some local Vietnamese insurance plans do not cover these facilities.
2. How Much Does Medical Care Cost for Expats in Vietnam?
Consultations & Routine Medical Care
| Type of service | Public hospital | Private hospital | Internationale clinic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generalist consultation | 50,000 - 300,000 VND (approx. 2 - 11 Euros) | 800,000 - 1,500,000 VND (approx. 39 - 54 Euros) | 1,500,000 - 3,500,000 VND (approx. 54 - 126 Euros) |
| Specialist consultation | 200,000 - 600,000 VND (approx. 7 - 22 Euros) | 1,500,000 - 3,500,000 VND (approx. 54 - 126 Euros) | 2,500,000 - 6,000,000 VND (approx. 90 - 217 Euros) |
| Pediatric consultation | 100,000 - 500,000 VND (approx. 4 - 18 Euros) | 1,500,000 - 4,000,000 VND (approx. 54 - 145 Euros) | 2,500,000 - 6,500,000 VND (approx. 90 - 235 Euros) |
| CT scanner / MRI | 500,000 - 2,500,000 VND (approx. 18 - 90 Euros) | 5,000,000 - 12,000,000 VND (approx. 180 - 434 Euros) | 10,000,000 - 20,000,000 VND (approx. 361 - 723 Euros) |
Hospitalization & Emergency Care
A private hospital stay can quickly cost millions of VND per day, especially for surgeries. An international clinic hospitalization can exceed 50 million VND (1,800 EUR) or more.
⚠ Important: Private and international hospitals require immediate payment unless you have health insurance covering the full amount.
3. Vaccinations & Preventive Care in Vietnam
Access to vaccinations in Vietnam depends on the facility:
- Public hospitals: Some vaccinations are subsidized for residents, but availability and quality control are not always guaranteed.
- International clinics: Offer Western-standard vaccines but at higher costs.
Average vaccination costs in Vietnam:
Public hospital: 800,000 - 1,500,000 VND per dose (29 - 54 EUR) International clinic: 2,000,000 - 3,000,000 VND per dose (72 - 108 EUR)
💡 Tip: Always verify vaccine traceability and international compliance before receiving any vaccinations in Vietnam.
4. Do Expats Need Health Insurance in Vietnam?
With high medical costs in the private sector and limited public healthcare options, expat health insurance is essential in Vietnam.
Why You Need Expat Health Insurance in Vietnam
- Covers expensive medical treatments (consultations, hospitalization, diagnostics).
- Provides access to top private and international hospitals without large upfront payments.
- Ensures emergency and unforeseen medical coverage.
- Protects against tropical diseases (dengue, malaria, viral infections).
As a leading insurance broker for expats and official CFE partner, Alea assists the French and expat community in finding the best health insurance solutions.
With Vietnam's complex healthcare system and the high cost of private care, we compare top-tier health insurers—including APRIL, Henner, and MSH—to secure the best coverage at the best price for you and your family!
