Roger
@Anh Map
American expat in Vietnam
Forum posts
61
Contacts
6
About me
American
Lives in Binh Duong
Speaks English
Registration: 19 August 2012
Passport for my newborn
No reason not to. Life changes. You may choose to leave VN and/ or travel in the future. Oz passport is much less restrictive than VN. Read More
How to Get "Certificate of No Marriage"? by America2Vietnam
Hi, I'm an American citizen looking to marry a Vietnamese citizen. There is one document that just seems impossible to get. It's the certificate saying that I am not currently married in the USA. This must be provided by the state vital ...
Go to the Consulate. Get the affidavit of single status. https://vn.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/Marriage-in-Vietnam.pdf Read More
18 year old with associates degree looking to teach English next year
Associates won't meet the official criteria for work permit. That being said, you can find work. Might be "second tier" but there are a lot of opportunities out there. Pay will be a bit less. Just come and do the circuit visiting ... Read More
Moving To Vietnam In 2018 by onceuponastage
Hello, I'm a disabled USAF vet and will be moving with my wife to (hopefully) Vung Tau later this year. I was actually born in Saigon and left when I was 4 yrs. old. I'm working on completing my BA and will be enrolling in either a CELTA ...
Being Viet born, many places will expect to pay you less no matter your experience or credentials. Several friends who went to Canada as kids and returned to VN have run into that. For many places it is how you look rather than your skills / ... Read More
fiance visa by Teach4fundotcom
Can someone shed some lights into this with your personal experience? How easy is the process and the length of time it takes to get it done? Thanks.
As others have said, go to visajourney.com. It's a DIY site with sample forms and lots of personal experiences that you can draw from. Specifically read the Vietnam regional forum to prepare for the meat grinder. If you are living here in ... Read More
any store that sells fisherman's friend? by freshair
preferably in Binh Thanh area, or D1/3. Thanks!
I usually find them at Citimart here in Binh Duong. I'd guess they have the brand in all locations. Read More
PERMANENT RESIDENT STATUS IN HANOI - NORTH VIETNAM by peterwij
Being a foreigner married to a Vietnamese citizen, lived and worked in Hanoi Vietnam for the last 15 years. My children were born here and do the schooling here in Vietnam, still I hold a Temporary Resident Permit (renewable every 3 years). ...
Rice farmers running the government are paranoid about foreigners and folks from the south being too close. Read More
How much money to send to GF and baby per month in Vietnam by TonyMapleLeaf
How much money to send per month to GF and baby living in Nha Trang? I figured about $700 or 14 mil dong/month to covered baby formula, clothing, foods, ect for both. Already paid a year rent upfront no worry about that. What say you? about right? ...
Be sure to have the money talk before she arrives in CN. What are her expectations and what are yours. You both need to stick to it. Read More
Binh Duong- accepted an offer at Eastern International University by Guest6832
Hello All I am new to this forum. Have accepted a teaching position at Eastern International University and will commence in August. Would appreciate any advice from members on what to expect, what I should consider bringing with me (what items are ...
You will find many more tailors in Saigon. Here in BD look on Phu Loi street in Thu Dau Mot ( the area near Binh Duong Square plaza and going away from highway 13/Binh Duong Blvd.) Getting around, busses, xe om, taxi. Depends on where you are ... Read More
How much money to send to GF and baby per month in Vietnam by TonyMapleLeaf
How much money to send per month to GF and baby living in Nha Trang? I figured about $700 or 14 mil dong/month to covered baby formula, clothing, foods, ect for both. Already paid a year rent upfront no worry about that. What say you? about right? ...
$700 on top of rent is PLENTY for the average Viet to live on with a child. What did she live on before you came into the picture? FWIW, the expectations that you set now will only increase as your relationship continues. Read More
Places to rent in Buon Me Thuot by Raggers
I don't really mind if its a house or an apartment. I am moving from London and she is moving from Nha Trang. Her home town is Buon Me Thuot and I knew she wanted to move back there to be closer to her family and our daughter, so it will have to ...
Another misleading statement. Anyone, accepted by the VN Government under their terms, can get citizenship. They can even retain their original citizenship, now. Successful applicants include people from the West, as well.Just follow the simple ... Read More
Places to rent in Buon Me Thuot by Raggers
I don't really mind if its a house or an apartment. I am moving from London and she is moving from Nha Trang. Her home town is Buon Me Thuot and I knew she wanted to move back there to be closer to her family and our daughter, so it will have to ...
You won't get citizenship.....ever. Unless the laws change dramtically. It isn't easy to get a residency card. Renewing visas every 3 months or so is in your future unless you obtain employment that can help you with a work visa. That ... Read More
who studied abroad can help me by thaitrang1910
how much time does it normally take to know if a student can be accepted into the university from the time of applying the admission application form ?
The university normally can tell you their response time / calendar. Contact the school directly. Read More
new to expat
Get a job and the school will take you through the paperwork as you will need a work contract to get the work visa. Be sure to have all the needed docuemnts from home stamped/authenticated as needed before you arrive in VN. It makes the process ... Read More
English Teaching Job Prospects by quynh27
Hi everyone. I was planning to move to Ho Chi Minh City between mid/end of September 2014. I'm a native English speaker, born and raised in the U.S, but with Vietnamese heritage. By the time I move, I would've completed an online TESOL ...
Work visas are more easily obtained once you are in VN. For a teaching job be sure to have the properly certified/notarized/verified copies of credentials. Easier to do while at home than from here. If your school is going to go by the book, ... Read More
Getting your passport notarized for tax by JasonGomez
I am here working on a tourist visa and have been asked to get my passport notarized for tax. I this a normal procedure and is it easy to do?
No places in TDM for the notarization. I've had to go into Saigon for it. That is with my employer doing the legwork. Read More
motorbike driver wanted by maximus0760
Hello, I will spend three months in Go Vap (ward 12, Phan Huy Ich), from 4 Dec 2014. I would need somebody reliable and able to speak and understand English, willing to take me to places on their motorbike. I would pay market prices for this ...
I doubt anyone here on this site is looking for work as a xe om driver. Lots of buses in Go Vap along with taxis. Best advice was already given: buy a helmet and find one of the local xe om drivers that you like. Read More
I am desiring to live in Vietnam, can someone help me? by YenThaiYawannisri
:heart: [color=#F41EF0]My name is Nancy Alice, but I have decided that I would rather have a Vietnamese name, so I only answer to Yen Thai Yawannisri. I am 46 years old, and I have a passionate desire to leave America and renounce my American ...
Come and spend a few months to see how it feels living here. Also, as others have said, it's extremely unlikely that you would obtain VN citizenship so you will need another passport if you wish to renounce US citizenship. I wouldn't put ... Read More
possession of work permit
I paid the fee for my permit(s). The school has the original, I think. Haven't had to transfer so far. Who pays is probably a negotiable thing. I figured that if I paid, then it's my permit. Though who really has all the leverage? ... Read More
What papers are required abroad to legally marry in Vietnam? by Canuck2014
Hi. I am from Canada and will be returning to Vietnam end of the year to get marry. What documents are required from my home country to be legally marry in Vietnam? Thanks.
It takes some time (several days minimum) to do all the paperwork before getting married. So be sure to allow yourself enough time to get it all done before you return home. And no, they won't take your word for it. Read More
Any CELTA Certified Teachers Here? by kjwyatt
Hi, all! I'm enrolled in the CELTA course at ILA starting October 14th. Are there any CELTA certified teachers on this site who can give me some advice or share their experience? Also, where in Saigon can I buy (or download) the recommended grammar ...
The CELTA course is like trying to drink from a fire hose. Don't schedule a lot of outside activity during the weeks that you'll be taking the course. Scrivner is a must read. Swan's practical English Usage is another good resource. Best of ... Read More
Rain Gear
I found a couple of old threads in the blog area about where to get rain gear in VN. I am getting ready to head over and the stores in VN will not have my size. So what are the recommendations? Poncho? Rain suit? Foul weather gear able to ... Read More
Kitchen Appliances by Chris NJ
Hello everyone, Does anyone know where I can get a kitchenaid or a meat grinder with sausage attachment? Also where I can get sausage casings? I have been wanting to make some good Italian sausage. Thanks in advance.
Ever since I installed a metal detector in abattoir I've never eaten sausagesDo you have your own slaughter house, and if so, why did you need to install a metal detector in it?Saw the same thing when I did a tour of a facility. All processing ... Read More
HCMC Hotel - First Stop
I'll be arriving in a couple of weeks. Any suggestions on a hotel to start off with? Just something simple and in reasonable proximity of the ESL school area(s). Just need a place to begin the search, not the place to stay long term. In the ... Read More
'Tis the season (Halloween): Where to buy pumpkins in HCMC by Jayhawk
I have lived here a few years now and Halloween is becoming more popular every year. It is apparent by the increasing number of costume shops and Halloween parties in schools, restaurants, and bars. However, I still cannot find a place to buy ...
I will be traveling from what has become Halloween Central (Salem, MA USA) in a week or so. Not sure if a burnt witch can fit in my luggage. :lol: Read More
Any BMW rep on here? by Wild_1
Hi guys, 2 months ago, in an effort to learn a little about the 335is cabriolets, I sent the Vietnamese BMW managers, in Saigon and Hanoi, a set of questions. Until this day, no one lifted a finger, not even an acknowledgement of my emails. ...
Is there an owners club in HCMC that might be able to supply the info? Enthusiasts can come up with great solutions. Read More
Any BMW rep on here? by Wild_1
Hi guys, 2 months ago, in an effort to learn a little about the 335is cabriolets, I sent the Vietnamese BMW managers, in Saigon and Hanoi, a set of questions. Until this day, no one lifted a finger, not even an acknowledgement of my emails. ...
Not being a smartazz. What info are you looking for that you aren't able to find online or in auto magazine reviews? Read More
Long-term temporary residence card instead of Visa? by Minnesota
Ok another worry that I have about moving to VN is getting Visa renewals. I am not sure about having to keep going to Cambodia for this so was wondering what you have to do to get a residence card. I would think that many people move to VN all the ...
I will try to find a good employer to sponsor me. Does put a lot of pressure on me.First things first. Concentrate on the CELTA. The rest will work itself out. Read More
Long-term temporary residence card instead of Visa? by Minnesota
Ok another worry that I have about moving to VN is getting Visa renewals. I am not sure about having to keep going to Cambodia for this so was wondering what you have to do to get a residence card. I would think that many people move to VN all the ...
What I am saying is can I get a residence card even before I go? It would be better than to keep trying to update a visa ever 3 months.Not possible. Read More
Moving to HCMC Vietnam by Minnesota
Well I currently live in Minnesota USA. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Business. Also have over 10 years accounting experience but no direct classroom teaching experience. I already have a place with a nice family to rent a room from in ...
For getting a room I would not have anyone to show me around. I never been to VN before. For me 4K seems to be close but I guess with traffic the way it is there is may be kind of hard.Think of a giant ant colony, and that still doesn't do it ... Read More
Moving to HCMC Vietnam by Minnesota
Well I currently live in Minnesota USA. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Business. Also have over 10 years accounting experience but no direct classroom teaching experience. I already have a place with a nice family to rent a room from in ...
I did not realize that you had to have them stamped by the secretary of state office. I am not near DC so I am not sure how I would do this. Maybe I will do it in HCMC. Just one more question for you. Do I just need my diploma or do I need all ... Read More
Moving to HCMC Vietnam by Minnesota
Well I currently live in Minnesota USA. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Business. Also have over 10 years accounting experience but no direct classroom teaching experience. I already have a place with a nice family to rent a room from in ...
Anh Map, you did bring up a great point about the diploma. Right now I am having my college send me two notarized originals. Is this enough or should I order more? What do you recommend?They need to be authenticated. State Secretary of State ... Read More
Moving to HCMC Vietnam by Minnesota
Well I currently live in Minnesota USA. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Business. Also have over 10 years accounting experience but no direct classroom teaching experience. I already have a place with a nice family to rent a room from in ...
Also, get your college diploma authenticated so that you have that with you. It's needed if you're going to get a work permit. It can be done from VN, but likely easier in the States. Also get a criminal background check done as well. Just ... Read More
Moving to HCMC Vietnam by Minnesota
Well I currently live in Minnesota USA. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Business. Also have over 10 years accounting experience but no direct classroom teaching experience. I already have a place with a nice family to rent a room from in ...
It's like drinking from a fire hose. Read More
Moving to HCMC Vietnam by Minnesota
Well I currently live in Minnesota USA. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Business. Also have over 10 years accounting experience but no direct classroom teaching experience. I already have a place with a nice family to rent a room from in ...
The full time CELTA experience is very intense. Moving to a new part of the world and doing the CELTA is even more of a challenge. Read More
Teaching english in Vietnam by distantarray
Well I just got back from my 7 week trip to Vietnam, and loved it. Although I had some tough times there. I love the country very much, and have completely fallen for a girl there. Due to certain circumstances I might not be able to marry her to ...
Off topic: depending on what the "circumstances" are, take time now to figure out the US visa process for your new love. Read More
I need help! by Marie Brizard
Hi everybody! I will start my first trip to Ho Chi Minh city with my fiance on next week. I want to have a romantic dinner with him in that city. Do you know any restaurants that have good meal and romantic space? And also any landmarks we should ...
Thank you for your advices. I will tell my fiancee about this.Do you work in embassy in Viet Nam? FWIW: You should also research and prepare for the process of obtaining a US visa for your future spouse. The Consulate in HCMC is typically not a ... Read More
Where to live to experience life as a native by ancientpathos
Greetings, I understand that there are communities where the expats live. I am looking to live more among the vietnamese. Maybe what I am looking for is not possible. Anyone have any experiences they would like to share?
You won't have any problems finding all the authentic experiences you seek. Read More
ESL CELTA Certificate Authentication - US school by Anh Map
Any forum members here earn their CELTA from the US? If so, what steps did you have to take to have the certificate authenticated for the work permit? Thanks!
I'm done with getting things stamped and certified. If the CELTA needs to be authenticated I will do that from VN. The turnaround takes too long and I don't want to have documents chasing me from UK>US>VN. Read More
ESL CELTA Certificate Authentication - US school by Anh Map
Any forum members here earn their CELTA from the US? If so, what steps did you have to take to have the certificate authenticated for the work permit? Thanks!
CELTA is CELTA ... I don't think it matters where you have obtained it from. As I know, in Vietnam you need a teaching certificate and a university degree in order to be eligible for a work permit. If you apply for a work permit by yourself then ... Read More
Mobile phone in VN (I've done my searching through the forum) by Anh Map
I've read all the threads in the forum and am still wanting more info. I'm coming from the US with my 2 year old HTC Incredible. Also have an old BlackBerry 8830. The HTC is acting like a POS recently thanks to the latest software upgrade. ...
phones lock up and/or go into a perpetual reboot cycle when you are using any sort of map/gps feature especially. CAn be as simple as doing a check-in through facebook or getting walking directions in the city.Ah yes a well know problem and one ... Read More
Mobile phone in VN (I've done my searching through the forum) by Anh Map
I've read all the threads in the forum and am still wanting more info. I'm coming from the US with my 2 year old HTC Incredible. Also have an old BlackBerry 8830. The HTC is acting like a POS recently thanks to the latest software upgrade. ...
Mobiphone offering services for younger people's needs -I am curious as to what services you think they need v older people? I subscribe to their services and use, streaming, email, im,games, chat and other services. I wouldn't class myself as young ... Read More
Mobile phone in VN (I've done my searching through the forum)
I've read all the threads in the forum and am still wanting more info. I'm coming from the US with my 2 year old HTC Incredible. Also have an old BlackBerry 8830. The HTC is acting like a POS recently thanks to the latest software upgrade. ... Read More
Flag football (american football) ??? by lude2u
Hello everyone! ive been lurking on this forum for awhile but just recently registered. I am curious to know if anyone know of any sort of group that gets together and play flag football(American style football) in Saigon? Ive tried searching a ...
The big question is: does anyone have an actual football to toss around? Read More
I need help! by Marie Brizard
Hi everybody! I will start my first trip to Ho Chi Minh city with my fiance on next week. I want to have a romantic dinner with him in that city. Do you know any restaurants that have good meal and romantic space? And also any landmarks we should ...
FWIW: You should also research and prepare for the process of obtaining a US visa for your future spouse. The Consulate in HCMC is typically not a pleasant experience. Read More
Looking for a hotel room (for a family of 4 people) in Vung Tau by Nhung11281
Dear EB members, I am looking for a for a hotel room (for a family of 4 people) in Vung Tau. It should have good sea view or by the sea. I really need your recommendation. Please also share some restaurants, cafe and sight-seeings you ...
Stayed here a few years ago and it was ok. Right on the beach. http://intourcoresort.com.vn Read More
I need help! by Marie Brizard
Hi everybody! I will start my first trip to Ho Chi Minh city with my fiance on next week. I want to have a romantic dinner with him in that city. Do you know any restaurants that have good meal and romantic space? And also any landmarks we should ...
Have you prepared for what is required to be married in Vietnam? FYI >>> http://vietnamembassy-usa.org/basic-page/legalization-document-marriage-registration Read More
Official Documents for Working in Vietnam
Doing the same with my docs here in the US. I had my university degree and police check authenticated here in the US. The authentication takes place at the university and then (in the US) the individual state sec. of state office. This link ... Read More
ESL CELTA Certificate Authentication - US school by Anh Map
Any forum members here earn their CELTA from the US? If so, what steps did you have to take to have the certificate authenticated for the work permit? Thanks!
Given the time involved to get the authentication from Cambridge, and input I've gotten from other inquiries I will hold off on this. As stated earlier, VN gov't wants the college diploma for the permit. Teaching credential is a school thing. ... Read More
ESL CELTA Certificate Authentication - US school
Any forum members here earn their CELTA from the US? If so, what steps did you have to take to have the certificate authenticated for the work permit? Thanks! Read More