Useful numbers and emergencies in Vietnam
(Photo: Christoph Burgstedt)
1. National emergency numbers (free services)
These numbers can be reached 24 hours a day from any phone (landline or mobile).
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112: Unified emergency number (equivalent to 911 or the European 112). It coordinates emergency and rescue services nationwide.
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113: Police (rapid response).
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114: Fire and rescue.
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115: Medical emergencies and ambulances.
Tip: If you are calling from a mobile phone, it is sometimes better to dial the city code before the number (e.g. 024 113 for Hanoi or 028 113 for Ho Chi Minh City).
2. Assistance for tourists
The big cities have dedicated “hotlines” for foreign visitors to report lost documents or a scam, or to ask for general assistance:
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Tourist assistance service (Hanoi): +84 24 3926 1515
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Tourist assistance service (Ho Chi Minh City): +84 28 3925 0000
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Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) hotline: 1900 1839
3. Embassies and consulates (French-speaking countries)
If you lose your passport or need consular assistance:
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French Embassy: * Hanoi: +84 24 39 44 57 00
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Consulate in HCMC: +84 28 35 20 68 00
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4. Transport and information services
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Directory enquiries: 1080 (general information, weather, addresses).
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Airports:
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Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi): +84 24 38 86 50 47
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Tan Son Nhat Airport (HCMC): +84 28 38 48 53 83
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Good to know
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Visa Do I need a visa?
Vietnam issues e-visas to nationals of many European countries. The conditions, the permitted length of stay and the open entry points change regularly. Read the guide -
Communication Phone and internet: how does it work?
Tourist SIM cards and eSIMs can be bought as soon as you land at the airport, simply by showing your passport. 4G covers all three regions; hotels and cafés all have Wi-Fi. Read the guide -
Health Do I need vaccinations?
No vaccinations are compulsory for travellers coming from Europe. Take out travel insurance covering medical expenses and pack mosquito repellent for the forest and the Mekong Delta. Read the guide -
On the street How do you cross the street through the motorbikes?
Walk slowly and at a steady pace, without stopping suddenly or stepping back: the riders will steer around you. Read the guide -
Safety How do I keep my belongings and documents safe?
Leave your passport in the hotel safe and carry a copy with you; in markets and busy streets, wear your bag in front of you. Read the guide -
Etiquette Pagodas and temples: what should you know?
Cover your shoulders and knees, take off your shoes before entering the sanctuary, speak quietly and ask permission before photographing local people. Read the guide -
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