Why Vietnam Is Rising on the Expat Radar in 2025 — and What That Means for Employers Targeting Foreign & Japanese Talent

Vietnam has become more than a manufacturing hub. In 2025, it is one of the world’s most attractive destinations for foreign professionals — thanks to affordable living, accessible housing, and strong career opportunities in industries from manufacturing and trading to IT and finance.

The Expat Essentials Index 2025 confirms what many employers already see: Vietnam ranks highly for housing affordability and availability, and continues to hold the #1 position worldwide for personal finance. In fact, 89% of expats say they are satisfied with the cost of living, while 87% believe their income is sufficient for a comfortable life.

For companies in Vietnam, this creates a unique advantage. With the right support, you can attract skilled international professionals — including Japanese candidates who are increasingly open to overseas opportunities.

What Makes Vietnam Attractive to Expats

1. Housing That Works

Unlike many global hubs where housing is a deal-breaker, Vietnam ranks near the top worldwide. Expats find accommodation both affordable and relatively easy to secure in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. For Japanese professionals — many with families — this stability is a decisive factor.

2. A Cost of Living Advantage

Vietnam’s cost advantage is unmatched. For companies, this means compensation packages are competitive without being inflated. For expats, disposable income stretches further, making relocation an easier “yes.”

3. A Strong Japanese Community

Vietnam hosts one of Asia’s fastest-growing Japanese communities, with established schools, supermarkets, associations, and clinics. For Japanese professionals and their families, this familiarity reduces relocation anxiety. Employers who highlight this support often win trust quickly.

4. Career Growth Opportunities

Japanese companies are expanding operations in Vietnam, particularly in electronics, automotive, and IT services. Foreign professionals also find opportunities in management, engineering, and finance. Employers that can showcase structured career pathways stand out to expats considering Vietnam.

What Employers Need to Do Differently

• Smooth the Admin Process: Expats still report friction around visas and local paperwork. Assigning bilingual HR support and preparing relocation guides (housing, banking, SIM cards) can remove early-stage stress.

• Offer Language Support: Vietnam ranks low in language accessibility. Providing starter Vietnamese lessons or pairing newcomers with bilingual colleagues demonstrates care and speeds up integration.

• Showcase Lifestyle and Community: For Japanese professionals, knowing there are reputable schools, safe neighbourhoods, and a supportive expat community is just as important as salary. Highlight these in your employer branding.

• Highlight Cost–Benefit to Talent: Illustrate how a salary package in Vietnam translates into a higher standard of living compared to Singapore or Hong Kong. This narrative can be decisive for families making relocation choices.

FAQs for Employers

Q1. Why should companies in Vietnam consider hiring Japanese or foreign expats in 2025?

Because Vietnam offers a rare balance: affordable housing, competitive salaries, and a supportive expat community. This makes relocation attractive — if companies provide the right onboarding support.

Q2. What are the main challenges expats face in Vietnam?

Language barriers and administrative processes. Employers that proactively address these stand out as attractive destinations for talent.

Q3. How can employers reassure Japanese professionals about moving to Vietnam?

Highlight the existing Japanese community, international schools, and familiar amenities. Show that your company values smooth integration for both professionals and their families.

Q4. Is Vietnam competitive compared to Singapore or Hong Kong?

Yes. While Singapore is strong on digital life and global reputation, Vietnam outperforms on affordability and housing. For many expats, that balance makes Vietnam a compelling long-term option.

Q5. What role does Reeracoen play?

We connect companies in Vietnam with skilled international and Japanese talent, ensuring every step of the relocation — from visa paperwork to first-week housing — is managed smoothly.

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References

• InterNations — Expat Essentials Index 2025

• InterNations — The Best & Worst Countries for Expats in 2025

• InterNations — Personal Finance Index 2025