How to Pay for Medical Treatment in Vietnam (2026 Guide)

Vietnam has become one of Asia’s fastest-growing destinations for medical tourism. With modern hospitals, internationally trained doctors, and treatment costs significantly lower than in Western countries, thousands of international patients choose Vietnam each year for healthcare services.

However, one of the most common questions foreign patients ask before arrival is:

“How do I pay for medical treatment in Vietnam?”

In 2026, Vietnam offers several payment options for medical services, including cash, bank transfers, international cards, and insurance reimbursement. Understanding how the payment system works can help patients plan their treatment smoothly and avoid unexpected issues.

This guide explains how to pay for medical treatment in Vietnam in 2026, including accepted payment methods, insurance considerations, hospital policies, and practical tips for international patients.

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Overview of the Vietnamese Healthcare Payment System

Vietnam’s healthcare system includes both public hospitals and private hospitals/clinics.

• Public hospitals mainly serve local residents and often require cash or local payment methods.

• Private hospitals and international clinics are the preferred choice for foreigners and medical tourists.

For international patients, payment is usually out-of-pocket, with insurance reimbursement handled later depending on the policy.

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Common Payment Methods for Medical Treatment in Vietnam

In 2026, the following payment methods are commonly accepted at reputable hospitals and clinics.

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1. Cash Payment (Vietnamese Dong or USD)

Cash remains one of the most widely accepted payment methods in Vietnam.

Accepted currencies

• Vietnamese Dong (VND) – always accepted

• US Dollars (USD) – accepted at many private hospitals

Pros

• Simple and fast

• No processing fees

• Accepted almost everywhere

Cons

• Large amounts of cash may be inconvenient

• Exchange rates vary

• Public hospitals may only accept VND

Important note:
Large private hospitals often have on-site currency exchange counters, but rates may be less favorable than banks.

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2. Credit and Debit Cards

Most international hospitals and premium clinics in Vietnam accept major cards:

• Visa

• MasterCard

• JCB

• UnionPay (limited)

Where cards are commonly accepted

• International hospitals

• Private medical centers

• Dental clinics serving foreigners

Pros

• Convenient and secure

• Easy payment tracking

• Useful for insurance reimbursement documentation

Cons

• Processing fees (2–3%)

• Daily card limits

• Some clinics accept card payments only above a minimum amount

Patients should notify their bank before traveling to Vietnam to avoid card blocks.

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3. Bank Transfer (International or Local)

Bank transfers are increasingly popular for:

• Major surgeries

• Medical tourism packages

• Advance deposits

Types of transfers

• International wire transfer (SWIFT)

• Local Vietnam bank transfer (for residents)

Pros

• Secure for large amounts

• Transparent documentation

• Common for pre-treatment deposits

Cons

• Processing time (2–5 working days)

• Bank transfer fees

• Requires accurate bank details

Many hospitals request partial prepayment before scheduling surgery.

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4. Online Payment Links

In 2026, many international clinics provide:

• Online payment links

• Secure payment gateways

• Invoice-based payment systems

This is especially common for overseas patients who confirm treatment before arrival.

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How Medical Bills Are Structured in Vietnam

Medical bills in Vietnam are typically divided into:

• Consultation fees

• Diagnostic tests

• Treatment or surgery costs

• Medication

• Hospital stay (if applicable)

Private hospitals usually provide itemized invoices in English, which are essential for insurance reimbursement.

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Payment Before vs After Treatment

Outpatient treatment

• Payment is usually made after service

• Same-day billing

Surgery or major treatment

• Deposit required before admission

• Final settlement upon discharge

Deposits typically range from 30%–70% of the estimated cost.

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Using International Health Insurance in Vietnam

This is one of the most important topics for foreign patients.

Does Vietnam accept international insurance directly?

In most cases:
❌ No direct billing

✔ Reimbursement model is standard

Patients pay first, then claim reimbursement from their insurance provider.

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Hospitals More Likely to Support Insurance Claims

International hospitals and private clinics usually provide:

• English medical reports

• Itemized invoices

• Doctor signatures

• Diagnosis codes

These documents are critical for insurance claims.

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Insurance Types Commonly Used

Foreign patients in Vietnam typically use:

• International private health insurance

• Expat health insurance

• Travel medical insurance

Coverage depends on:

• Policy limits

• Pre-existing conditions

• Type of treatment

• Hospital classification

Always confirm coverage before treatment.

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What Is Usually NOT Covered by Insurance

Most insurance policies exclude:

• Cosmetic surgery

• Elective procedures

• Non-medical aesthetics

• Some dental treatments

• Alternative therapies

Medical tourists should not assume coverage without written confirmation.

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Payment for Dental Treatment in Vietnam

Dental care is one of Vietnam’s strongest medical tourism sectors.

Payment features

• Mostly self-pay

• Lower costs than Western countries

• Transparent pricing

• Card and cash accepted

Many patients choose Vietnam for dental treatment even without insurance due to affordability.

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Payment for Cosmetic and Elective Procedures

Cosmetic surgery, aesthetic treatments, and non-urgent procedures are:

• Paid fully out-of-pocket

• Not covered by insurance

• Often packaged as fixed-price programs

Clinics usually require:

• Deposit before surgery

• Full payment before discharge

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Payment for Emergency Medical Treatment

In emergency situations:

• Hospitals provide immediate care

• Payment or deposit is required shortly after stabilization

• Passport may be requested for registration

Travel insurance is highly recommended for emergency coverage.

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Medical Tourism Packages in Vietnam

Many international patients choose all-inclusive medical packages, which may include:

• Medical consultation

• Treatment or surgery

• Hospital stay

• Airport pickup

• Translation support

• Post-treatment follow-up

These packages usually require:

• Advance payment

• Bank transfer or online payment

They offer better cost transparency for overseas patients.

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Typical Medical Costs in Vietnam (2026 Estimates)

Prices vary by hospital and city.

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Currency Exchange Tips for Medical Patients

• Exchange money at banks or licensed exchange offices

• Avoid street exchange

• Keep receipts for documentation

• Carry both VND and card options

ATMs are widely available in major cities.

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Important Tips Before Making Payment

1. Ask for a Written Treatment Plan

Always request a written estimate before treatment.

2. Confirm What Is Included

Clarify whether medication, follow-ups, and tests are included.

3. Request English Invoices

Essential for insurance claims.

4. Keep All Receipts

Insurance companies require complete documentation.

5. Avoid Paying Full Amount Too Early

Pay deposits only after treatment confirmation.

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Is Medical Treatment in Vietnam Safe for Payment?

At reputable hospitals and licensed clinics, payment systems are secure and transparent.

However, patients should:

• Avoid unlicensed clinics

• Verify hospital credentials

• Use official invoices only

• Work with trusted medical tourism facilitators when needed

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Role of Medical Tourism Facilitators

Many international patients use medical tourism agencies to:

• Coordinate hospitals

• Clarify pricing

• Arrange payment schedules

• Assist with insurance documentation

• Provide language support

This can reduce risk and improve overall experience.

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Future Trends in 2026

Vietnam’s healthcare payment system is evolving:

• More digital payment platforms

• Improved international billing support

• Better insurance documentation

• Growing acceptance of foreign patients

These changes are making Vietnam increasingly accessible for international medical care.

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Final Thoughts

Understanding how to pay for medical treatment in Vietnam in 2026 is essential for a smooth and stress-free healthcare experience.

While most treatment is paid upfront, Vietnam offers:

• Affordable pricing

• Transparent billing

• Multiple payment options

• High-quality private healthcare

For international patients, careful planning, documentation, and choosing reputable providers are the keys to safe and successful medical treatment in Vietnam.

With the right preparation, Vietnam remains one of Asia’s most practical and cost-effective destinations for modern healthcare.