Health Insurance In Vietnam For Foreigners Guide

Hong Duc Anh Nguyen
Tue, 23 Sep 2025 10:15:10 +0000
dental knowledge, dental insurance, dentist vietnam, greenfield dental, health insurance, health insurance in vietnam for foreigners

Learn everything about the healthcare system, from hospitals & clinics to choose the right health insurance in Vietnam for foreigners.

The post Health Insurance In Vietnam For Foreigners Guide appeared first on Greenfield Dental.

Introduction

Living, working, or traveling long-term in Vietnam comes with countless rewarding experiences—delicious food, vibrant culture, and friendly communities. But one important area often overlook is health insurance in Vietnam for foreigners.

While Vietnam’s healthcare costs are lower than in many Western countries, unexpected emergencies or treatment in private international hospitals can become expensive quickly. That’s why choosing the right insurance—and knowing your options for supplementary plans like dental memberships—is essential.

This guide will help you understand how healthcare works in Vietnam, why insurance matters, and how foreigners can make smart choices to protect their health and finances.

1. Healthcare Overview in Vietnam

Vietnam offers both public and private healthcare services:

Public hospitals: Low-cost but often overcrowded. English is limited, and facilities may not meet international expectations.

Private hospitals: More expensive but modern, with international standards, English-speaking doctors, and shorter waiting times. Examples include FV Hospital, Vinmec, and International SOS.

Foreigners usually prefer private hospitals and clinics for reliable service and communication.

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2. Why Health Insurance Is Essential

Having health insurance in Vietnam for foreigners is about more than compliance—it’s about peace of mind. Key reasons include:

Financial protection: International hospitals can charge hundreds to thousands of dollars for treatment.

Emergency coverage: Accidents, especially motorbike-related, are common.

Access to specialists: Insurance ensures you can afford advanced diagnostics and surgeries.

Visa requirements: Long-term visas and work permits may require proof of insurance.

3. Types of Health Insurance Plans

a) Local Vietnamese Insurance Plans

Affordable premiums.

Limited hospital network and coverage.

Best for basic needs.

b) International Health Insurance Plans

Coverage valid in Vietnam and abroad.

Higher premiums but wider hospital networks.

Ideal for expats or frequent travelers.

c) Travel Insurance

Covers emergencies and accidents.

Suitable for tourists and short-term visitors.

Not ideal for long-term care.

4. Cost of Healthcare and Insurance

Doctor consultation at a private hospital: $30–$80 USD.

Hospitalization per night: $200–$500 USD.

Major surgery: $2,000–$10,000+ USD.

Average premiums:

Local plans: $300–$800 USD/year.

International plans: $1,000–$5,000 USD/year.

5. What’s Covered

Most plans include:

Inpatient and outpatient care.

Emergency treatment and hospitalization.

Surgery and specialist consultations.

Emergency evacuation.

Optional add-ons: maternity, dental, and vision.

Always check exclusions, especially for pre-existing conditions or motorbike accidents.

6. How to Choose the Right Plan

When selecting health insurance in Vietnam for foreigners, consider:

1. Length of stay – short-term vs. long-term.

2. Budget – balance premiums with benefits.

3. Hospital network – ensure your preferred providers are covered.

4. Repatriation – essential for serious cases.

5. English support – for easier claims and communication.

6. Claim process – look for direct billing.

7. Trusted Providers

Local: Bao Viet Insurance, PVI Insurance.

International: Cigna Global, Allianz Care, AXA International.

Travel: World Nomads, SafetyWing.

Papaya Insurance: Covering Dental Care at Greenfield

One of the most practical choices for expats and travelers is Papaya Insurance, a digital health insurance provider in Vietnam. Known for its flexibility and ease of use, Papaya offers direct billing partnerships with trusted hospitals and clinics—including Greenfield Dental in Hanoi.

What’s Covered?

With Papaya, you can expect coverage for essential dental treatments such as:

Teeth examination & consultation: Routine check-ups at Greenfield Dental are fully covered or reimbursable, depending on your plan.

Tooth extraction: Includes both simple and permanent teeth extractions, reducing out-of-pocket costs for patients.

Additional dental care: Depending on the package, Papaya also helps cover fillings, scaling, and preventive care.

Why It Matters for Foreigners

Cashless payments: Papaya’s direct billing system means you won’t need to pay upfront at Greenfield Dental—just show your insurance card.

Convenience: Their app allows you to track claims and benefits in English, making the process smoother for expats.

Peace of mind: Whether it’s a sudden wisdom tooth extraction or a routine exam, Papaya ensures you’re financially protected.

Extra Option: Dental Membership Plans in Hanoi

Besides traditional insurance, expats in Hanoi can also benefit from dental membership programs that cut costs and ensure consistent care.

At Greenfield Dental, the Family Gleam Membership Card offers comprehensive dental benefits for families:

Highlights of the Family Gleam Card

Unlimited free services: Consultation, X-rays, fillings, cleanings, whitening, fluoride application, baby teeth extraction, and more.

Discounted treatments:

50% off permanent teeth extraction (including wisdom teeth).

20% off porcelain crowns, veneers, dentures, and general dentistry.

10% off implants, orthodontics, and minor surgeries.

Covers up to 4 members: Share benefits without limits.

Extra 5% guaranteed discount: Always better than standard clinic promotions.

Voucher guarantee: If unused after 9 months, it converts into a voucher worth 15,000,000 VND.

For expat families, this membership card is an excellent supplement to health insurance in Vietnam for foreigners, ensuring affordable, high-quality dental care year-round.

By combining Papaya Insurance with local options like Greenfield Dental’s Family Gleam Membership Card, foreigners in Vietnam can enjoy comprehensive health and dental coverage with predictable costs and premium care.

Do you have questions about Family Gleam Card

If you have questions about Family Gleam Card, submit the form below or speak to our enquiry coordinators on +84 906 621 988 .
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8. Tips for Expats and Visitors

Always carry your insurance card.

Use hospitals with direct billing to avoid upfront payments.

Follow traffic rules and wear helmets—motorbike accidents are common.

Renew policies on time to prevent gaps.

9. FAQs

Q: Is health insurance mandatory in Vietnam for foreigners?
Not for tourists, but often required for work permits and long-term visas.

Q: Can I use my home country insurance in Vietnam?
Only if it covers international treatment. You may need to pay upfront and claim reimbursement.

Q: Do policies cover motorbike accidents?
Yes, but only if you have a valid license and helmet.

Q: What’s best for short stays?
Travel insurance with medical coverage.