Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Far from the café-lined avenues of Paris, a growing number of French citizens are now choosing Vietnam as their new home, drawn by its dynamic economic growth and rich culture. While Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are often seen as prime destinations, other lesser-known cities are becoming real magnets for this expatriate community, offering attractive career and lifestyle opportunities.
This article explores these unexpected places where the French are settling, explaining why these particular destinations captivate those seeking to combine adventure and stability, while shedding light on the demographic and cultural trends shaping these residential choices.
Mapping Francophone Communities in Vietnam
The history of Francophone communities in Vietnam reflects a complex dynamic, shaped by French colonization, cultural and economic exchanges, and the evolution of bilateral relations between Vietnam and France.
Historical and Demographic Evolution:
- The French presence began in the 18th century with the arrival of merchants, missionaries, and explorers. Their influence significantly increased from 1858, the start of colonial conquest, followed by the establishment of French Indochina in 1884.
- French became the quasi-official language during the colonial period, used in administration, education, and cultural life.
- After Vietnam’s independence in the mid-20th century, the use of French declined sharply but remained a language of the elite, culture, and access to higher education.
- Since the 1990s, Francophonie has experienced a revival, particularly due to Vietnam’s accession to the International Organization of La Francophonie in 1970 and enhanced educational and cultural cooperation.
Factors in the Settlement of Francophone Communities:
- Cultural heritage from French colonization: architecture (opera houses, town halls, cathedrals), schools and universities, Francophone literature and press.
- Economic opportunities: trade, technical cooperation, direct investments by French companies, the role of the language in accessing certain skilled jobs.
- Educational opportunities: scholarships, university programs in French, student mobility between Vietnam and France.
- Bilateral relations: cooperation agreements, sister cities, support for Francophone institutions.
Geographical Distribution of Francophone Communities:
| City/Region | Main Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Ho Chi Minh City | Largest Francophone community, strong presence of schools and businesses |
| Hanoi | Cultural institutions, universities, embassies, dynamic community life |
| Da Nang, Hue | Historical Francophone presence linked to colonization and recent exchanges |
| Coastal Cities | Tourism, cultural cooperation, networks of retirees and expatriates |
Recent Demographic Data:
– The exact number of daily French speakers varies by source, but it is estimated that about 700,000 people have some proficiency in French, with several tens of thousands of active speakers.
– Several thousand French nationals reside primarily in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
Testimonials and Case Studies:
– “For me, speaking French is a link to my family’s history and an opening to the world.” (student in Hanoi)
– A Franco-Vietnamese entrepreneur in Ho Chi Minh City explains that Francophonie facilitates business exchanges and access to certain professional networks.
– In central regions, teachers share how Francophonie contributes to preserving cultural heritage and opening professional opportunities for youth.
Key Cultural and Educational Institutions:
- Lycée Français Alexandre Yersin (Hanoi)
- Lycée Français Marguerite Duras (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Institut Français du Vietnam (present in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue)
- Hanoi Medical University (French-speaking sections)
- Alliance Française (language courses and cultural activities)
- France Excellence Scholarships for Vietnamese Francophone students
Francophonie in Vietnam today is a dynamic space, at the crossroads of historical legacies, contemporary educational and cooperation challenges, and the diversity of individual paths.
Key Takeaways:
- Strong colonial heritage visible in architecture and educational institutions.
- Communities concentrated in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and certain coastal cities.
- Central role of schools, cultural institutes, and associations in the vitality of Vietnamese Francophonie.
- Varied experiences, between family memory, economic opportunities, and international openness.
Good to Know:
Francophone communities in Vietnam, heirs of French colonization, have evolved over the decades, influenced by complex history and bilateral relations between France and Vietnam. Historically concentrated in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, they leverage the economic and educational opportunities these major urban centers offer, particularly through cultural and educational institutions like the Institut Français and French high schools. Recent data indicate that Francophones in Vietnam number several thousand, steadily increasing due to professional and academic exchanges. For example, a French engineer who moved to Da Nang testifies to the diversity of experiences, enriched by bilateral cooperation programs. Although less known, coastal cities like Da Nang and Nha Trang also host a small but dynamic Francophone community, attracted by the tourism and restaurant markets. These cities benefit from the presence of Francophone clubs and regular cultural events that strengthen community ties and preserve the French language as a bridge between generations.
Neighborhoods Favored by French Expatriates in Vietnam
Main Neighborhoods Where French Expatriates Settle in Vietnam
| City | Neighborhood | Major Assets |
|---|---|---|
| Ho Chi Minh City | District 1 | Economic and cultural heart, vibrant life, numerous shops/restaurants, easy access to services |
| District 2 – Thao Dien | Preferred residential area for French families: modern and spacious housing, international schools (including the International French School Marguerite Duras), green spaces, calm and secure atmosphere | |
| District 7 – Phu My Hung | Largest expatriate community in the country: modern infrastructure (international medical centers, schools), high-end living environment but limited cultural immersion | |
| Hanoi | Tay Ho | Largest expatriate community in Hanoi: calm ambiance around West Lake, numerous international restaurants/bars, imported products in supermarkets, nearby international schools |
| Ba Dinh | More authentic atmosphere with affordable cost of living; close to downtown but relatively peaceful environment | |
| Long Bien | Tranquility and green spaces; spacious housing suitable for families |
Main Reasons for Attractiveness
- Proximity to French/international schools, facilitating children’s education.
- Quick access to international medical facilities.
- Increased presence of services tailored to expatriates (supermarkets with imported products, Western restaurants).
- Secure environment with green spaces for families.
In Thao Dien (District 2), a French family testifies that “everything is here to feel at home while enjoying the tropical climate”: a pool in their modern residence, French bakeries within walking distance on weekend mornings. The children bike to school every day on quiet roads.
In the Tay Ho neighborhood in Hanoi, an expatriate explains:
> “We chose Tay Ho because that’s where most Francophone activities are: cafés serving real pain au chocolat like in Paris or sports groups organizing tournaments among French people every Sunday.”
Detailed Characteristics by Neighborhood
- Housing: High-end apartments or modern villas often available furnished. High rents especially in Thao Dien/Phu My Hung/Tay Ho.
- Cultural Life & Leisure:
- Numerous events organized by the Alliance Française or Francophone associations.
- Regular French culinary festivals in certain neighborhoods.
- Varied offer of sports activities suited to European tastes (international fitness clubs).
- Shopping & Dining:
- Supermarkets offering cheeses/common European imports.
- Fine dining restaurants run by French people or inspired by French cuisine.
- “French-style” bakeries/pastry shops highly appreciated for their authenticity.
List of Advantages/Disadvantages According to Testimonials:
- Advantages:
- Strong sense of community thanks to an active Francophone community (dynamic local Facebook groups).
- Environment adapted to Western family needs without major language barriers in these specific neighborhoods.
- Disadvantages:
- Sometimes prohibitive cost compared to the rest of the country for housing/international food
- Less perceived Vietnamese immersion, especially in Phu My Hung
“We find a little piece of France here… neighbors often invite each other for barbecues after shopping at the local French deli,” shares a resident of District 7.
This daily life illustrates why these neighborhoods remain preferred despite their high costs: they offer Western comfort without sacrificing safety or essential amenities for successful integration.
Good to Know:
French expatriates in Vietnam favor neighborhoods such as District 2 and Phu My Hung in Ho Chi Minh City, as well as Tay Ho in Hanoi, known for their modern infrastructure, the presence of French international schools, like the Lycée Français Alexandre Yersin, and a dynamic cultural life. These neighborhoods offer a variety of housing ranging from spacious villas to modern apartments, often equipped with amenities like pools or gyms. They also feature a multitude of restaurants, cafés, and shops offering typical French products, creating a familiar and welcoming environment. The Francophone community is active and regularly organizes events, facilitating integration and maintaining cultural ties. An expatriate testifies to the ease with which they adapted thanks to these infrastructures and the established social network, making their experience in Vietnam enriching and enjoyable despite the distance from France.
French Networks and Their Role in Integration
French social and professional networks in Vietnam play a central role in the integration of expatriates, facilitating their adaptation to local life, access to employment, housing, and essential services.
Role of Social and Professional Networks:
- Networking: Platforms such as InterNations or Facebook groups like French Expat Vietnam allow newcomers to ask questions, get practical advice, and meet other French people sharing their experience.
- Community Events: Regular meetups are organized to foster social connections, share information about Vietnamese culture, or discuss administrative procedures.
| Network/Association | Main City | Primary Objectives |
|---|---|---|
| InterNations | Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City | Professional/social networking |
| French Expat Vietnam (FB) | National | Practical advice, job/housing/services |
| Union of French Abroad (UFE) | Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City | Administrative/cultural support |
| Welcome of French in Saigon (AFS) | Ho Chi Minh City | Social/cultural activities |
Facilitation of Integration in Key Areas:
- Employment:
- Rapid dissemination of job offers via specialized groups on Facebook or LinkedIn.
- Exchanges on locally recruiting sectors and concrete feedback.
- Member recommendations for accessing certain positions hard to find from France.
- Housing:
- Dedicated groups for posting searches; near-instant connection with local Francophone or English-speaking real estate agents.
- Personalized recommendations avoiding common pitfalls of the Vietnamese real estate market.
- Essential Services:
- Shared information on French/international schools, French-speaking doctors, banks suited to expatriates.
Concrete list of active network examples:
- InterNations – Monthly meetings in Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City
- Facebook Group “French Expat Vietnam” – over 8,000 members
- UFE Vietnam – recognized cultural/humanitarian organization
Importance of Cultural and Linguistic Support:
Associations often offer:
- Language courses or workshops (French/Vietnamese)
- Activities around French traditions (national holidays/gastronomy)
- Help with culture shock through shared experiences
This support strongly contributes to:
- Reducing feelings of isolation
- Facilitating mutual understanding with Vietnamese society
- Promoting an inclusive Franco-Vietnamese identity
Summary list: major benefits for community feeling
- Quick creation of a solid social circle upon arrival
- Shared feeling of “being at home away from home”
- Constant possibility to turn to a supportive group during administrative or personal difficulties
All these interactions promote successful integration by making reliable local information, daily mutual aid, and constant opportunities to build a robust professional/social network accessible. This associative fabric thus creates a genuine sense of belonging among French people living in Vietnam.
Good to Know:
French social and professional networks play a crucial role in the integration of expatriates in Vietnam, particularly through platforms like expatriate Facebook groups and the France Alumni Vietnam network. In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, associations such as the UFE (Union of French Abroad) and ADFE (Democratic Association of French Abroad) are very active, facilitating access to employment, housing, and a multitude of essential services. These networks offer cultural and linguistic support, creating a genuine sense of community and promoting successful integration. Regular meetups and cultural events not only strengthen bonds among French people but also enrich their local experience, fostering a sense of belonging beyond borders.
Challenges Faced by the French in Vietnam
French people living in Vietnam face several major challenges that can impact their integration, well-being, and professional success.
Main Challenges Encountered
- Language Barriers
- Proficiency in Vietnamese remains a significant obstacle for the majority of French expatriates, limiting access to certain jobs, public services, or a richer social life.
- Even though English is sometimes used in big cities and certain professional circles, it remains insufficient for many daily procedures.
- Expatriate Testimony: “I quickly realized that solid basics in Vietnamese were needed just to open a bank account or understand administrative documents.”
- Cultural Differences
- Vietnamese social codes differ significantly from those in France: importance of hierarchical respect, indirect conflict management, different relationship to time and speech.
- Culture shock can be accentuated by the bustling pace of big cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.
- Administrative Procedures (Visa and Work Permits)
- Obtaining a long-term visa or work permit often requires patience and rigor in dealing with a complex bureaucracy that varies by province.
- Processing times can be long; it is advised to anticipate all procedures well before departure (visa from the Vietnamese embassy), subscription to mandatory expatriate insurance, and vaccination against certain local diseases.
| Procedure | Main Difficulty | Recommended Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Visa | Lengthy/variable process | Anticipate; contact embassy |
| Work Permit | Numerous documents/translations | Inform via official site/lawyer |
| Health Insurance | Mandatory but complex choice | Compare international offers |
- Climate Adaptation
- The tropical climate (persistent humid heat) requires significant physical adaptation. Some expatriates mention increased fatigue during the first weeks/months on site.
- Local Cuisine
- While many appreciate Vietnamese cuisine (phở, bún chả…), others face difficulties with specific ingredients or very different eating habits: abundance of rice/rice flour, fermented products…
Resources & Available Solutions
- Local French associations (Franco-Vietnamese Chambers of Commerce – CCIFV) offering practical workshops on cultural and administrative integration
- Social networks/Francophone Facebook groups facilitating exchanges among new arrivals
- Online platforms dedicated to expatriate mutual aid: housing/health/local rights advice
- Intensive/language courses organized by Alliance Française
Practical Checklist to Facilitate Settlement
- Register with the consulate upon arrival
- Seek information from already settled expatriates via local forums/networks
- Regularly attend workshops/conferences on taxation/assets organized by specialized organizations
Good to Know:
French residents in Vietnam encounter various challenges, with the language barrier being foremost, as although English is widespread, Vietnamese remains essential for full integration and managing daily life; language courses are often recommended. Cultural differences, such as the subtleties of social interactions or understanding local customs, require an adaptation period. Administrative procedures, like obtaining visas and work permits, can prove complex and necessitate assistance from specialized agencies or advice from expatriates who have gone through the process. Getting used to the hot and humid climate, as well as sometimes spicy cuisine, can be an initial but enriching shock for culinary adventurers; gradually discovering these flavors by learning about local dishes facilitates adaptation. Testimonies from French expatriates emphasize the importance of social networks and forums for sharing advice and experiences, offering essential support in this settlement process.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. We encourage you to consult qualified experts before making any investment, real estate, or expatriation decisions. Although we strive to maintain up-to-date and accurate information, we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the proposed content. As investment and expatriation involve risks, we disclaim any liability for potential losses or damages arising from the use of this site. Your use of this site confirms your acceptance of these terms and your understanding of the associated risks.
Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
