Vietnam uses the dong (VND). ATMs that accept international cards are just outside arrival gates at all major airports, and most hotels, restaurants and tour operators accept international cards. Carry some cash for small purchases and remote places, and pack for the region and month you travel in.
At a glance
Currency
Vietnamese dong (VND)
Coins
None in use, notes only
ATM limit
2 to 3 million VND local, 5 to 10 million VND international
Cards
Widely accepted by hotels, tour operators and restaurants
Tipping
Not expected, per Vietnam Tourism
Packing checklist
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Documents
Clothes and footwear
Personal and health needs
Money
Money and forex (VND)
Rules checked 22 Oct 2026
The official currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND). Vietnam Tourism says the notes range from 10,000 VND to 500,000 VND, no coins are used, and the 20,000 and 500,000 VND notes are similar shades of blue, so check before paying.
Cash and cards
Most establishments accept major credit cards such as Visa. Hotels, tour operators, boutiques, restaurants, grocery stores and spas generally accept international debit and credit cards, while cash is used for small purchases and street vendors. Conversion rates and swiping fees are set by your card provider.
ATMs and fees
Vietnam Tourism says ATMs accepting international cards are just outside the arrival gates at all major airports and are common in cities. Withdrawal limits per transaction range from 2 million to 3 million VND on local bank ATMs, and 5 million to 10 million VND on international bank ATMs. Currency exchange is available inside international airports before the exit gates, and usually at hotels, tourist hotspots and local banks.
Backup plan
Withdraw some extra cash before travelling to remote destinations. Use the hotel safe for cash, cards and valuables, and keep wallets close in crowded places, per Vietnam Tourism.
The Vietnamese dong (VND). There are no coins in use, only notes.
Where can I withdraw cash?
ATMs accepting international cards are just outside the arrival gates at all major airports and common in cities, per Vietnam Tourism.
Can I pay by card?
Hotels, tour operators, restaurants, grocery stores and spas generally accept international cards. Cash is used for small purchases and street vendors.
How much can I withdraw at once?
Per transaction, 2 to 3 million VND on local bank ATMs and 5 to 10 million VND on international bank ATMs.
Is tipping expected?
No. It is not a normal part of Vietnamese culture, though it is increasingly common for private tour guides and in beauty salons.
What about SIM and eSIM?
This guide does not cover SIM and eSIM because no official source was found.
