Vietnam Life Weekly Update: Your Essential Guide for American Expats
a
awa
April 2, 2026 21 min read 1
Week 14, 2026 (March 31 - April 6)
Executive Summary & Key Highlights
Welcome to Week 14, everyone. As we move deeper into spring, Vietnam is buzzing with energy. This week's major focus is on the final implementation phase of the new 90-day e-visa validity, which is now fully operational and changing travel patterns for many. We're also seeing a significant shift in the international school enrollment cycle, and regional weather patterns are becoming a primary concern for daily life and travel planning. The VND continues to show resilience, and the co-working space market is evolving rapidly. Let's dive into the details you need to navigate the week ahead.
1. Policy, Visa, and Regulatory Changes**
A. Immigration & Visa: The 90-Day E-Visa is Now Standard
The transition period is over. As of this week, all eligible nationalities (including the US) applying for the single-entry e-visa will only be issued visas with a 90-day validity and a 90-day stay period. The old 30-day option is no longer available through the official portal.
What This Means for You:
For Tourists & Short-Term Visitors: This is a net positive, offering more flexibility. The fee remains the same at $25 USD.
For Longer-Term Residents on Visa Runs: This significantly alters the calculus for those using frequent border runs. A 90-day stay reduces the frequency of exits but requires more careful long-term planning if you are not on a formal residency permit.
Action Item: If you are on a visa-run strategy, ensure your entry and exit dates are meticulously tracked. Overstaying, even by a day, results in heavy fines and potential bans. Consider if it's now the right time to consult with an immigration agent about converting to a longer-term business or investor visa.
B. Residential Registration (Tạm Trú) Enforcement Drive
Local ward (phường) authorities in major expat hubs like Thao Dien (HCMC) and Tay Ho (Hanoi) have begun a new quarter push to verify temporary residence registrations.
What This Means for You: If you are renting long-term (over 30 days), your landlord is legally required to register your presence with the local police. While enforcement has been sporadic, this quarter's drive means you or your landlord might be contacted.
Practical Advice: Politely ask your landlord or rental agency for confirmation that your tạm trú has been filed. Having a copy of this document is also wise. If you're in a homestay or very short-term rental, this is less of a concern.
C. Digital Nomad Scene: Clarification on "Digital Nomad Visas"
There is no official "Digital Nomad Visa" in Vietnam. However, the 90-day e-visa, combined with the rise of formal co-working and business center memberships (see Section 4), is creating a more stable environment. We are hearing increased rumors of a pilot program for a specific longer-term visa for remote workers, potentially tied to minimum income thresholds and health insurance requirements, but this is not yet policy. We will monitor this closely.
2. Practical Advice & Things to Note**
A. Lifestyle & Health: "Giao Mùa" - The Seasonal Transition
We are in the period Vietnamese call giao mùa (changing seasons). This brings unpredictable weather—sudden heavy downpours in the South, and lingering damp cold snaps in the North—and a notable uptick in common illnesses.
Health Advice: Cases of flu, sinus infections, and seasonal allergies are spiking. Ensure you have a good stock of your preferred remedies. Reconfirm that your international health insurance is active and you know the process for visiting clinics like Family Medical Practice, Vinmec, or Hanoi French Hospital. Hydration is key, even when it's not intensely hot.
Travel Planning: If traveling domestically this week, especially to coastal areas like Da Nang or Nha Trang, check weather forecasts diligently. Afternoon thunderstorms can be intense but brief. Always have a rain poncho or umbrella.
B. Transportation: Ride-Hail Price Fluctuations
With the unpredictable rain, expect surge pricing on Grab and Be to be more frequent and severe, particularly during late afternoon rush hours (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM). The "Motorbike" option may disappear during heavy rain for safety reasons.
Pro Tip: For essential trips during peak storm times, consider booking a GrabCar Comfort or BeCar in advance, or use the "Schedule a Ride" feature. The price will be locked in and you'll guarantee a four-wheeled vehicle.
C. Cultural Note: Approaching Hung Kings' Festival & Reunification Day
April is a month with two major public holidays stacked closely together:
Hung Kings' Temple Festival: April 9-10 (Observed). A celebration of the nation's founders.
Reunification Day & Labor Day: April 30 - May 3 (Long holiday).
What This Means:Start planning now. This period is the busiest domestic travel season of the year. Flights and trains to popular destinations (Da Lat, Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Nha Trang) will be fully booked and prices are already skyrocketing. If you plan to travel, book immediately. If you plan to stay in the city, expect a peaceful, quiet atmosphere as many locals return to their hometowns. Many services and smaller shops may be closed.
3. Cost Updates & Financial Insights**
A. Exchange Rate & Banking (As of April 2, 2026)
The Vietnamese Dong (VND) remains surprisingly strong against global currency fluctuations.
USD/VND:1 USD ≈ 24,150 VND (Commercial Bank Rate). The rate has held steady in a tight band between 24,100 and 24,200 for several weeks.
Advice: This is a stable rate for routine transfers. For larger amounts, consider using reputable transfer services like Wise (TransferWise) or Atlantic Money, which often provide better rates and lower fees than traditional international bank wires. Always compare the final received amount in VND.
B. Rental Market Trends
The market is showing a clear two-tier trend:
High-End Apartments (Central HCMC/D1, Hanoi's Tay Ho): Prices remain firm with low vacancy. A modern 2-bedroom in a prime central area still commands $1,200 - $2,500+ USD/month.
Mid-Range & Suburban Areas (HCMC D7, Thu Duc; Hanoi's Ciputra, Trung Hoa Nhan Chinh): Increased inventory is leading to more negotiation room. Landlords are more open to covering management fees or offering one month free on a 12-24 month lease. This is an excellent time to look if your lease is up for renewal or you're considering a move for more space.
C. Education: International School Enrollment Cycle
Admissions for the 2026-2027 Academic Year are in full swing. Many top-tier schools (ISSP, ISHCMC, UNIS Hanoi, etc.) have already filled key grade levels for August 2026 intake.
Urgent Advice for Families: If you are planning a move with school-age children in mid-2026, contact schools immediately. Spots are scarce, and waitlists are growing. Be prepared for application fees, entrance assessments, and interviews.
Tuition Update: Tuition increases have been announced, averaging 5-8% across most institutions. Factor this into your long-term financial planning.
D. Cost of Living Snapshot
Coffee (local café): 25,000 - 40,000 VND
Craft Beer (tap, at a bar): 90,000 - 150,000 VND
GrabBike (3km ride): 25,000 - 40,000 VND (base, before surge)
Weekly Local Market Groceries for 2: 800,000 - 1,200,000 VND
Dinner for 2 at a mid-range restaurant: 600,000 - 1,500,000 VND
4. Recommended Resources & Upcoming Events**
A. New & Noteworthy Resources
Co-Working:The Sentry (HCMC) has just opened a second location in District 1, offering state-of-the-art facilities and networking events tailored to entrepreneurs and remote workers. Their "Sentry Passport" allows access to multiple locations.
Legal/Administrative:Vietnam Visa (vietnam-visa.com) remains a reliable aggregator of official info and a conduit for agents, but always cross-check with the official government e-visa website (https://immigration.gov.vn/) for the most current rules.
Community Forum: The "Hanoi Massive" and "Expats in Ho Chi Minh City" Facebook groups continue to be active, but take advice with a grain of salt. For more curated discussions, look for specific hobby or professional groups (e.g., "Hanoi Creative Collective").
B. Upcoming Events (Week 14 & Beyond)
HCMC: Saigon Craft Beer Week (Apr 4-10): Various venues across the city. A great chance to sample local microbreweries like Pasteur Street, Heart of Darkness, and Winking Seal.
Hanoi: Hidden Art Spaces Tour (Saturday, Apr 5): A guided tour exploring independent galleries and artist studios in the Old Quarter and West Lake areas. (Book via Hanoi Tourism).
Da Nang: International Fireworks Festival 2026 - Opening Night (Saturday, Apr 4): The first competition night (Vietnam vs. TBA) kicks off this beloved annual festival. Expect huge crowds.
Nationwide: Clean-Up Initiatives: Many local environmental groups are organizing clean-ups for Earth Day (April 22). A fantastic way to give back and meet like-minded people. Search for "Keep Vietnam Clean" groups in your city.
Final Thought
Vietnam in April is dynamic. The extended visa is a game-changer for flexibility, but it demands more responsible long-term planning. With the major holiday season looming, proactive planning is the single most important thing you can do this week to ensure a smooth and enjoyable month. Stay dry, stay healthy, and embrace the vibrant energy of the season.
This report is compiled based on official sources, community feedback, and local expert insights. Regulations and conditions can change rapidly. Always consult official channels or a licensed professional for critical legal or financial decisions.
Stay tuned for next week's update. Have a great week in Vietnam!
⚠️ Disclaimer: This article is an exclusive analysis by Luceve Editorial based on publicly available information. It is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer to buy/sell securities. Always consult a qualified advisor before making investment decisions.