Vietnam · Etiquette

Vietnam — Cultural Etiquette

Group-oriented; relationship-based business and social interactions. North/South stylistic differences.

Cultural Dimensions (Hofstede)

PDI

IDV

MAS

UAI

LTO

IND

Source: Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com).

What This Means in Practice

Power Distance

· 70/100

Moderately hierarchical: respect for age and rank; formal address opens doors.

Individualism

· 20/100

Group-oriented: relationships and references matter more than transactional terms; warm small talk before business is normal.

Achievement Orientation

· 40/100

Balanced: assertiveness and care both valued.

Uncertainty Avoidance

· 30/100

High tolerance for ambiguity: relaxed about timing, terms, and improvisation.

Indulgence

· 35/100

Mid-range: balance of restraint and expression; reading the room matters.

Quick Reference

Languages: Vietnamese; English in tourist areas
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Emergency: 113 police, 115 medical

Cultural-dimension scores from the Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com); etiquette specifics curated from local sources, embassy guidance, and community contributions. Last verified April 2026.