How Does ATMs & Cash Work in Vietnam?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Asia
1The Quick Answer
Cash (VND) is widely needed — use Vietcombank, Techcombank, or BIDV ATMs and exchange at banks or gold shops for the best rates.
2What You Need to Know
Vietnam remains largely cash-based outside of upscale establishments and hotels. Vietcombank, BIDV, and Techcombank ATMs accept most foreign Visa and Mastercard debit cards with a transaction fee of around 30,000–60,000 VND. Exchange rates at licensed banks and kim hoang (gold shops) are significantly better than at hotels or airports. Never exchange money with street vendors — counterfeit notes and short-changing are common risks.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Withdraw larger amounts at once to minimize per-transaction fees — most ATMs dispense up to 3,000,000–5,000,000 VND per transaction.
- 2Wise (formerly TransferWise) debit card users can often withdraw with lower fees — compare with your home bank's international charges.
- 3Keep a mix of small denominations (10,000–50,000 VND) for street food and tipping, as vendors rarely have change for large notes.
Important Warning
Never exchange money with unlicensed street changers — short-changing and counterfeit VND notes are a known risk.
How does this compare?
ATMs & Cash rules in nearby and similar countries:
Japan is heavily cash-based — always carry yen. 7-Eleven (Seven Bank) ATMs are the most reliable for foreign cards.
Thai ATMs charge a 220 baht fee per foreign card withdrawal — minimise withdrawals, carry cash for markets and temples, and always choose to be charged in Thai baht.
ATMs from DBS, OCBC, UOB, and POSB are widespread, but contactless payments and e-wallets are accepted almost everywhere in Singapore.
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