Key Takeaways
- Vietnam’s Da Nang, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City feature in the top 10 remote work hubs.
- Da Nang sees a 109% increase in digital nomads in 2023, ranking second only to Tokyo.
- The cost of living for nomads in Da Nang is notably low at $942 per month.
Da Nang, Vietnam–Vietnam’s prominence in the remote work landscape is rising, with Da Nang, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City securing spots among the fastest-growing hubs for digital nomads.
Nomad List’s Database Revelations
According to a VNExpress report, Nomad List’s extensive data shows Da Nang’s digital nomad community burgeoning with a 109% growth in 2023, positioning it just behind Tokyo.
Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City follow suit with significant increases in nomad populations.
Da Nang’s Digital Appeal
Recognized as Vietnam’s third key city, Da Nang offers not only free Wi-Fi and rapid internet in its urban core but also serves as a gateway to renowned heritage sites, enhancing its allure for nomads.
Living Costs in Vietnam’s Hubs
The report noted that while Da Nang presents an appealing monthly living cost of $942, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City remain competitive, with costs of $1,289 and $1,157 respectively.
Safety and Connectivity
Both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are acknowledged as politically stable and connected, with free Wi-Fi in public spaces, further adding to their appeal for remote workers.
Global Comparisons
Tokyo leads the global trend in digital nomad growth, with Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang also making the top five.
Per the report, the research encompasses an analysis of 300,000 check-ins by remote workers over two years.
Visa Accessibility
The report noted that although Vietnam has yet to introduce a dedicated digital nomad visa, the country facilitates easy online tourist visa applications, allowing a 90-day stay for citizens from nearly 200 countries.
What We Think
Vietnam’s cities are quickly becoming prime destinations for digital nomads, thanks to their low cost of living, robust Wi-Fi infrastructure, and political stability.
These factors, coupled with the country’s cultural richness and tourist attractions, create an inviting blend for remote workers.
However, to fully capitalize on this trend, Vietnam might consider instituting a specific visa for digital nomads, following the lead of neighboring Southeast Asian countries.
