Language:

Vietnamese (official), English (increasingly favored as a second language), some French, Chinese, and Khmer; mountain area languages (Mon-Khmer and Malayo-Polynesian)

Cost of Living:

The cost of living in urban centers in Vietnam is similar to major cities elsewhere in the world, with Saigon being quite expensive if one chooses to live in serviced apartments geared towards foreigners. Other housing options can be quality private homes which are available for as little as $500 USD per month (not including utilities) or up to many thousands of dollars per month for giant mansion-like homes with an incredible array of amenities that would rival any 5 star luxury hotel.

Visa and Work Permits: 

A work permit is required for all foreign workers.  You will need a company to sponsor and obtain a work visa for you. Once you obtain this, then you will be able to change your visa status from visitor visa to a work visa.

Job Searching:

It is difficult for foreigners to find employment in Vietnam since the country has an unemployment rate of 20% and they prefer to hire locals. However, Most of the growth takes place in the construction, mining, manufacturing, water generating programs, engineering, tourism, and IT industries. The senior positions are open to foreigners in these sectors, while Vietnamese citizens fill the lower levels.

If you have a Bachelor's degree and a TEFL qualification, you may find employment in Vietnam through one of the teaching recruitment programs. The ILA in Vietnam offers the widest range of English teaching positions. You can apply at ilavietnam.com. The minimum requirements vary according to student programs. They remunerate on a slide scale from 1-5 according to qualifications and experience. Teachers get 4 weeks paid annual leave and have medical insurance.

The Nguoi Vet newspaper runs job advertisements on Thursdays in it's English edition. The Internet is a good source for executive positions. Non-governmental organizations run several types of development programs in the country. You can get more information through sites that link the different member groups such as http://www.interaction.org/ If you are not highly qualified in one of the growing industries, it will be difficult to find employment in Vietnam

Money Banking and Taxes:

With proper identification you should have no problems getting established with a local bank in Vietnam.  Vietnam is a socialist country and as such subscribes to the Marxist belief that a heavy progressive income tax should be applied to all income, individual and corporate. A serious discussion with a tax lawyer and/or accountant in the country would be a wise action to take if you are considering moving to and living full time in Vietnam.

Safety:

For complete safety information please refer to: http://www.cvtips.com/looking_for_work_australia.html