Vietnam , too severe policy for foreigners over bank account

I've been here for two and a half years and never had a problem. Ipened an account with a valid visa and have made deposits with a valid work permit and authorized pay slip.  I've been very pleased with the service at BIDV

If I come to VN on a visitor visa without employment or a working visa will I be permitted to open up a local bank account?

It's not as difficult as people claim it to be.  Sure, it may take a while to set up in person.  But, if you have the appropriate paperwork, it's a breeze.

I have never had a problem with opening an account. Putting money into an account once it's opened is a bit more difficult due to the governments fear of money laundering.

Personally, I think payments for less than $ 1,000 should be exempt from over the top red tape. I had credit card bills to pay overseas. And now, friends who owe me claim they cannot send me money.

You should check your friends story, I receive money from PayPal all the time. It's not money coming from outside of VN that's the problem,it's money being placed into your account from inside VN.

Your can open an VND/USD HSBC bank account within 3-4 days complete with internet banking secure device. Excellent personal service, at least at its main office branch.

I opened an account without any problem, and they gave me an ATM card. Curiously, if you want a debit or credit card, you have to open a second account. To my knowledge, visitors cannot open one.