Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam • Asia
Vietnam's dynamic southern hub offering excellent coffee culture, fast internet, and energetic startup scene.
Why Ho Chi Minh City for Digital Nomads?
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is Vietnam's economic powerhouse and a rising star in the digital nomad world. The city combines French colonial charm with modern skyscrapers, world-famous street food with hip coffee shops. Internet speeds are excellent (often 70-100 Mbps), and the cafe culture is perfect for laptop workers - Vietnamese coffee is legendary for a reason.
Best Neighborhood: District 1/District 3
District 1 puts you in the heart of the action with easy access to coworking spaces, restaurants, and nightlife. District 3, just next door, offers a more authentic Vietnamese experience with lower prices. Both areas have excellent walkability and countless cafes perfect for working. Thao Dien in District 2 is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more Western environment.
The Vibe
Saigon pulses with entrepreneurial energy. The startup scene is booming, and you'll meet both local and international entrepreneurs at coworking spaces and networking events. The city is loud, chaotic, and endlessly fascinating. Scooters flood the streets, street food vendors set up on every corner, and life happens outdoors. It's a city that rewards the adventurous.
Digital Nomad Visa
Vietnam offers an E-Visa for up to 90 days, which can be extended. For longer stays, a Business Visa with local sponsorship is an option. The visa situation has improved significantly, and many nomads combine Vietnam with other Southeast Asian countries in their travel rotation.
Pro Tip
Learn to cross the street like a local - walk slowly and steadily, and traffic will flow around you. Get a Grab account immediately for transportation. The best cafes for working include The Workshop, Oromia, and L'Usine. Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá) will become your productivity fuel. Consider a local SIM from Viettel or Mobifone for cheap, fast data.
Visa & Legal Information
Entry requirements and visa options for Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Always verify with official government sources before traveling.
Food & Workspace Guide
Local food prices and work-friendly cafes in Ho Chi Minh City
Big Mac Index
Global cost comparison
US reference price: $5.79 (2025)
$2.00
$2.50
🍽️ Must Try
Pho Bo (Beef Noodle Soup)
World-famous street food, French-influenced bakeries, vibrant coffee culture
💰 Budget Eats
Work-Friendly Cafes
The Workshop Coffee
District 1
"Specialty coffee roaster, industrial design, great for focus"
Oromia Coffee
District 3
"Third-wave coffee, quiet upstairs seating"
L'Usine
District 1
"French-Vietnamese fusion, concept store with cafe"
Community Reviews
What digital nomads are saying about Ho Chi Minh City
Compiled from Reddit, NomadList & nomad forums by AI
Kevin N.
1 week ago · via NomadList
Vietnamese coffee culture is next level! ☕ The energy here is infectious - everyone's hustling on something. Pho for breakfast, banh mi for lunch, life is good.
Sophie L.
3 weeks ago · via r/digitalnomad
Internet is surprisingly fast, but crossing the street is a skill you need to learn! The heat and scooter chaos can be overwhelming at first. District 1 is manageable.
Chris H.
2 weeks ago · via Nomad Forums
The Workshop Coffee is my go-to spot! 🎯 Industrial vibes, excellent single-origin beans, and fast WiFi. Dreamplex is also amazing for serious work days.
Been to Ho Chi Minh City? Add your real experience! 💬
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Best Time to Visit
Plan your trip wisely
Hot & Wet (May-Nov, 30-35°C)
Warm & Dry (Dec-Apr, 25-32°C)
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Based on average costs for Ho Chi Minh City. Actual expenses may vary.
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