- The best travel insurance plans for Vietnam
- Is it currently safe to travel to Vietnam?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Vietnam?
- Why take out travel insurance for Vietnam?
- What Travel Insurance for Vietnam Should Cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Vietnam
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Vietnam
- Does my current insurance provide coverage in Vietnam?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Vietnam: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Vietnam covers medical emergencies, repatriation, trip cancellation, and lost baggage.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory, but vital as local hospitals require upfront payment from foreigners.
3. Healthcare cost: A private hospital stay can cost over $900 CAD per night for foreigners.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Vietnam costs between $30 and $60 CAD.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes medical evacuation, as quality healthcare is limited outside major cities.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Vietnam.
The best travel insurance plans for Vietnam
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | CA$1.5M | A strong choice for Vietnam, balancing safety and flexibility. - high medical limit - medical repatriation - covers theft risk |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | CA$1.5M | Great for short or urgent travel with responsive service. - 24/7 medical helpline - no deductible - cancellation cover |
| Tourist Card | CA$750K | Practical for tourism in Vietnam, good base protection for most travelers. - solid medical cover - emergency assistance - budget friendly |
| Travel Pass Monde | CA$1.1M | Well-suited for extended stays and wide activity scope. - hospital costs covered - repatriation - robust claims support |
| Globe Partner | CA$450K | Reliable contract for standard trips with essential coverage. - medical care abroad - simple claims - includes civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | CA$750K | An affordable pick for shorter stays or lower-risk trips. - core medical coverage - fast reimbursement - clear policy terms |
- high medical limit
- medical repatriation
- covers theft risk
- 24/7 medical helpline
- no deductible
- cancellation cover
- solid medical cover
- emergency assistance
- budget friendly
- hospital costs covered
- repatriation
- robust claims support
- medical care abroad
- simple claims
- includes civil liability
- core medical coverage
- fast reimbursement
- clear policy terms
Is it currently safe to travel to Vietnam?
As of June 2025, Global Affairs Canada advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Vietnam, primarily because of the high rate of petty crime. Travel is permitted, but vigilance is stressed throughout the country.
- Security risks: theft and bag snatching are prevalent, especially in crowded urban areas like Ho Chi Minh City and on popular transport routes. Official taxis and trusted ridesharing apps are advised, as scams involving unlicensed vehicles are frequent.
- Health risks: medical care is uneven and can be very limited outside major centres. Malaria is present in some rural zones, and cases of dengue fever occur annually, with the risk highest during the rainy season.
- Legal requirements: a valid visa is compulsory for all Canadian travellers, and reporting presence to local authorities is mandatory. Non-compliance, even for short stays, can result in fines.
- Cultural caution: avoid public demonstrations and political gatherings, especially in central city squares, as foreign involvement in protests is strictly prohibited by law.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by Global Affairs Canada, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Vietnam.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Vietnam?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Canadian travellers to enter Vietnam for tourism or business.
Travel insurance is still highly recommended as most Vietnamese hospitals may require upfront payment for care, and your Canadian health plan is not valid in Vietnam. Access to quality care may be limited outside major cities.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Vietnam. This high rate is due to the variable quality of medical facilities, upfront payment requirements and specific health risks in the country.
Why take out travel insurance for Vietnam?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Vietnam.
In Vietnam, foreigners are usually expected to use private clinics such as FV Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City or Vinmec International in Hanoi, where prices are high and full payment is required before treatment. Public hospitals are generally not recommended for visitors, as standards, language support and equipment are often inadequate.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Canada in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Vietnam.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at FV Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 45,000,000 VND (CA$2,500) | up to CA$150,000 |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 18,000,000 VND (CA$1,000) | up to CA$150,000 |
| I need to be repatriated | 350,000,000 VND (CA$19,500) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 80,000,000 VND (CA$4,500) | up to CA$150,000 |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What Travel Insurance for Vietnam Should Cover
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospitalization, medical consultations, and exams in case of illness or accident. Recommended minimum: CA$150,000. |
| ✈️ Emergency evacuation | Pays for ambulance, airlift, or transportation to Canada if needed after a medical emergency. Recommended minimum: CA$150,000. |
| 💊 Medication | Covers prescription drugs you may need due to illness or hospitalization. Recommended minimum: CA$1,000. |
| 🦴 Personal liability | Protection for accidental injury or property damage caused to others. Recommended minimum: CA$1,000,000. |
| 🧳 Lost or stolen baggage | Compensation for loss, theft, or delay of your luggage. Recommended minimum: CA$2,000. |
| 🚫 Trip cancellation | Reimburses prepaid expenses if you must cancel for a covered reason. Recommended minimum: CA$3,000. |
| 💼 Repatriation of remains | Covers the costs of returning remains to Canada in case of death. Recommended minimum: CA$15,000. |
Recommended minimum: CA$150,000.
Recommended minimum: CA$150,000.
Recommended minimum: CA$1,000.
Recommended minimum: CA$1,000,000.
Recommended minimum: CA$2,000.
Recommended minimum: CA$3,000.
Recommended minimum: CA$15,000.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often offers limited coverage, low limits, and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with comprehensive coverage. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Vietnam
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | CA$35 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | CA$65 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | CA$85 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | CA$190 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance is influenced by several key factors: your age, the duration of your trip, your destination, the amount of coverage you select, and any optional add-ons like trip cancellation. Considering these elements is crucial for finding a policy that fits your needs and budget, ensuring you're properly protected without overpaying.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Vietnam
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Vietnam while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip duration | Longer trips increase the premium, as there’s more time at risk in Vietnam. | Book only for the exact dates of your trip to avoid paying for unused coverage. |
| 🚶♂️ Traveller's age | Age impacts cost, with premiums rising for older travellers. | If over 62, compare options; Heymondo does not increase its prices after that age. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | High coverage limits for medical expenses are necessary given local costs. | Choose coverage amounts that fit Vietnam’s risks to avoid unnecessary add-ons. |
| 🚗 Activities covered | Some policies cover risky activities, which are popular for travellers. | Only select extra options like scooter accident cover if you plan to use them. |
| 🏨 Cancellation protection | This raises the premium, especially for expensive trips. | Consider skipping cancellation if your flights and accommodation are refundable. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Number of travellers | Family or group policies may offer savings versus buying individual coverage. | Opt for family plans if traveling with children to cut costs per person. |
| 💳 Excess/deductible | A higher deductible lowers the premium but increases costs in a claim. | Increase your excess only to an affordable level if you want to reduce your rate. |
Does my current insurance provide coverage in Vietnam?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or your public health system—can protect you during a trip to Vietnam. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Vietnam? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (provincial/territorial health care) | Never | No coverage for medical care or hospitalization abroad. Repatriation and emergency evacuation not included. | Travel insurance covers up to CA$1,000,000+ for medical care and repatriation, with 24/7 worldwide assistance. |
| Private health insurance (health benefit plans) | Limited coverage | Some reimbursement for medical fees abroad, often after return. Usually excludes medical evacuation, hospitalization, and trip cancellation. | Travel insurance can offer CA$500,000 to CA$1,000,000+ for local hospital care, plus immediate repatriation and evacuation. |
| Classic credit card (Scotiabank Value, CIBC Classic Visa, RBC Classic Visa) | Limited coverage | Travel accident cover under CA$15,000. Medical coverage rare or under CA$25,000. No baggage or trip cancellation protection. | Travel insurance covers CA$1,000,000+ plus trip cancellation (about CA$5,000) and baggage cover. |
| Premium credit card (RBC Avion Visa Infinite, BMO World Elite Mastercard, TD Aeroplan) | Limited coverage | Medical costs under CA$100,000. Trip delay/baggage loss under CA$1,000. Usually excludes adventure sports and pre-existing conditions. | Travel insurance increases medical cover to CA$1,000,000+, supports adventure activities, and has higher trip interruption limits. |
Example
After a scooter crash in Ha Giang, Liam's emergency surgery and medical transport to Hanoi cost $15,000. His CIBC Visa Infinite's insurance only covered $1,000, and his provincial health plan was insufficient. Without comprehensive travel insurance, he faced a staggering $14,000 bill for a common tourist mishap.
Expert advice
Many bank card and provincial health plans exclude key coverages like trip interruption for a family emergency. Always read your policy's fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. For peace of mind, it's always safer to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?
Yes, Canadian passport holders need a visa to travel to Vietnam for all purposes, including tourism, business, student, or work activities. Vietnam offers an electronic visa (e-visa) for Canadians, which can be valid for up to 90 days and allows for both single and multiple entries depending on the application.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Vietnam?
To purchase travel insurance for Vietnam, first compare different options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Next, carefully check cover and exclusions, ensuring guarantees meet the specific health and safety needs of Vietnam. Then buy your policy online and, when finalized, you will receive an official insurance certificate immediately by email.
Are there specific health risks in Vietnam travelers should consider?
Vietnam presents a risk for diseases like dengue fever, malaria in some regions, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, and avian influenza. Medical facilities and supplies may be limited, especially outside major cities. It is advisable to ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation, hospitalization, and access to private care.
Will my Canadian health insurance cover medical expenses in Vietnam?
No, Canadian health insurance generally does not cover medical expenses or hospital care outside Canada. Vietnamese health facilities regularly require upfront payment and may not accept foreign health insurance. Purchasing travel insurance ensures you have coverage for emergencies, medical treatment, and potential evacuation.
How much does travel insurance for Vietnam cost for Canadians?
Travel insurance for a trip to Vietnam from Canada typically ranges from CA$40 to CA$130 for one to three weeks, depending on age, duration, and level of coverage. Coverage for longer trips or older travelers may cost more. Always compare plans to find one that offers the protection you need at a reasonable price.
What should I do in case of a medical emergency in Vietnam?
If you experience a medical emergency in Vietnam, contact your travel insurance's 24/7 emergency assistance line immediately. They will direct you to an appropriate medical facility and arrange care. Remember that payment is often required up front, so keep your policy details and emergency contact numbers with you at all times.
Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?
Yes, Canadian passport holders need a visa to travel to Vietnam for all purposes, including tourism, business, student, or work activities. Vietnam offers an electronic visa (e-visa) for Canadians, which can be valid for up to 90 days and allows for both single and multiple entries depending on the application.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Vietnam?
To purchase travel insurance for Vietnam, first compare different options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Next, carefully check cover and exclusions, ensuring guarantees meet the specific health and safety needs of Vietnam. Then buy your policy online and, when finalized, you will receive an official insurance certificate immediately by email.
Are there specific health risks in Vietnam travelers should consider?
Vietnam presents a risk for diseases like dengue fever, malaria in some regions, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, and avian influenza. Medical facilities and supplies may be limited, especially outside major cities. It is advisable to ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation, hospitalization, and access to private care.
Will my Canadian health insurance cover medical expenses in Vietnam?
No, Canadian health insurance generally does not cover medical expenses or hospital care outside Canada. Vietnamese health facilities regularly require upfront payment and may not accept foreign health insurance. Purchasing travel insurance ensures you have coverage for emergencies, medical treatment, and potential evacuation.
How much does travel insurance for Vietnam cost for Canadians?
Travel insurance for a trip to Vietnam from Canada typically ranges from CA$40 to CA$130 for one to three weeks, depending on age, duration, and level of coverage. Coverage for longer trips or older travelers may cost more. Always compare plans to find one that offers the protection you need at a reasonable price.
What should I do in case of a medical emergency in Vietnam?
If you experience a medical emergency in Vietnam, contact your travel insurance's 24/7 emergency assistance line immediately. They will direct you to an appropriate medical facility and arrange care. Remember that payment is often required up front, so keep your policy details and emergency contact numbers with you at all times.
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