Do you need insurance for Vietnam?
| Question | Sources say (October 2026) |
|---|---|
| Compulsory on entry? | No general rule per one guide; another cites a declaration on the visa form; no systematic check confirmed |
| Cost of a solid policy | One guide estimates $50 to $120 for two weeks with $100,000 medical and $250,000 evacuation |
| Cost of care and evacuation | No reliable price found: ask the hospital or insurer for a quote |
| Emergency | 115 is often quoted for ambulances: confirm with your hotel |
Care in Hanoi and motorbikes
In Hanoi, private hospitals for foreigners, such as Vinmec or the French Hospital, are often mentioned by travellers. They are not verified here: ask your insurer which accept direct billing. Otherwise you advance the costs. For motorbikes and the Ha Giang loop, see the Ha Giang loop: a crash without a valid licence can void cover.
Comparison: your options
| Option | What it gives | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) | Nothing in Vietnam: valid only in the EU and EEA | No repatriation |
| Premium bank card | Assistance and medical costs, sometimes | Trip paid with the card, limits, two-wheelers often excluded |
| Home health insurer | Partial reimbursement abroad | You advance costs; often no repatriation |
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Care, hospital stay, emergency evacuation | No cancellation, no pre-existing conditions |
| Trip-cancellation insurance | A different product: costs if you cancel | No partner on this site |
SafetyWing: facts as of 24 October 2026
- Essential plan: from $62.72 per 4 weeks (ages 18 to 39, list price), up to 364 days.
- Medical up to $250,000; emergency evacuation up to $100,000 lifetime; death transport up to $20,000.
- Not covered: pre-existing conditions, maternity, cancer treatment; no cancellation in Essential.
- Bought online, before departure or once abroad.
- Motorbike accidents covered only with the right licence, full safety gear and no alcohol.
This is not a promise of reimbursement: read the contract before buying.
Risks to plan for
Heavy traffic, dengue, food poisoning and pollution: see scams and safety in Hanoi. For a Sapa trek, check that altitude and hiking are covered.
How to choose
- Look for at least $100,000 of medical cover and a real evacuation benefit.
- Read the motorbike clause: licence, helmet, alcohol.
- Save the assistance number offline.
- Add cancellation cover if your trip is costly and non-refundable.
FAQ
Is travel insurance compulsory for Vietnam?
According to the guides as of October 2026, there is no general requirement at entry, but sources disagree. Check the visa portal before you leave.
How much does travel insurance for Vietnam cost?
One guide estimates $50 to $120 for two weeks with $100,000 medical and $250,000 evacuation (October 2026).
Is the EHIC valid in Vietnam?
No, it covers only the EU and EEA.
Is my bank card enough?
Sometimes for care, rarely for motorbikes: read the limits and conditions.
Can I buy cover after arriving?
SafetyWing allows it, but a condition already known is not covered.
To go further
Prepare the trip with the Hanoi budget, where to stay in Hanoi and the Ha Giang loop.
