Destination Guide VIETNAM Country Code Time Zone Currency Exchange Rate (as of 01/11/2010) Source: www.oanda.com Voltage: 220V +84 GMT +7 Vietnamese Dong (VND) 1 US Dollar = 18,469 VND Cycles: 50Hz WORLD BANK GROUP HRSGM Mishka Cira (mishka_cira@yahoo.com) Ckatsu @worldbank.org Phone +1.202.473.7239 – MC8-537 1818 H Street, NW , Washington, DC 20433 DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 1/22 Contents 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................3 RESIDENCE PERMIT REQUIREMENTS/ENTRY VISA .....................................3 2.1 2.2 Entry Visa ......................................................................................................................... 3 Residential Permit/Visa, Identity Card and Duty-Free Quota Book .................................. 4 HEALTH..............................................................................................................4 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 HSD Country Health Services .......................................................................................... 4 SOS ................................................................................................................................. 4 Vaccinations ..................................................................................................................... 5 Health Information for Travelers ....................................................................................... 5 Medical Information on Vietnam ....................................................................................... 5 Medical Referral ............................................................................................................... 6 CUSTOMS REGULATIONS ...............................................................................7 SECURITY ..........................................................................................................7 SPOUSE/PARTNER CAREER SERVICES ........................................................8 6.1 6.2 Spouse Work Permit Regulations .................................................................................... 8 Relevant links/information resources ............................................................................... 8 HOUSING ...........................................................................................................9 7.1 7.2 7.3 Neighborhoods ................................................................................................................. 9 Furniture and equipment .................................................................................................11 Utilities ............................................................................................................................12 HOUSEHOLD HELP AND SECURITY GUARDS .............................................13 SCHOOLING.....................................................................................................14 9.1 List of international schools in Hanoi ...............................................................................15 10 RESOURCES FOR SETTLING IN.................................................................17 11 AUTOMOBILES ............................................................................................19 12 DRIVING A CAR............................................................................................21 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 10.5 11.1 11.2 11.3 11.4 Banking ...........................................................................................................................17 Mail .................................................................................................................................18 Reference Materials ........................................................................................................18 Language Instruction .......................................................................................................19 Duty-Free and other Shopping ........................................................................................19 Purchase .........................................................................................................................19 Registration .....................................................................................................................20 Car Insurance..................................................................................................................20 Resale/Re-Export ............................................................................................................21 DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 2/22 1 INTRODUCTION The purpose of these fact sheets is to make the process of settling in Vietnam easier by giving you country specific information on visa, health, housing, schooling, etc. Additional relocation advice can be obtained from the Office Administration Unit at the Hanoi, Vietnam country office and the World Bank Vietnam Family Network of international staff and families at the World Bank Vietnam field office. To join the Network email listserv, log onto www.yahoogroups.com and type in wbvietnamfamilynetwork. At Headquarters in Washington, D.C., additional resources can be obtained from the WBFN through their network of spouses who have resided in Vietnam. The url of WBFN website is: www.wbfn.org, email address: familynetwork@worldbank.org. Within the World Bank Vietnam country office, the following departments assist international staff and their families in relocating to Vietnam: Office Administration Unit: Primary point of contact for assistance with relocation; assistance in reviewing rental contracts, household staff employment contracts, etc.; assistance in acquiring residence permit/identity card/duty-free quota book; assistance with duty-free automobile purchase/import/registration, etc.; provides introduction letter for banking purposes, etc. Visiting Mission Unit: Assistance with entry visa and temporary accommodation recommendations. Resources Management Unit: Assistance with processing of rental advance/prepayments and other local relocation benefit grants (including furniture allowance, language instruction reimbursement, issuance of local healthcare identification, reimbursement of household guard salaries). 2 ENTRY VISA AND RESIDENCE PERMIT REQUIREMENTS 2.1 Entry Visa The Visiting Mission Unit (VMU) and the Office Administration Unit in the Hanoi, Vietnam country office assist the staff member and family to get the entry visa for Vietnam. The VMU requests the Consular Department in Vietnam to issue an assignment visa authorization to allow such person to work long-term in Vietnam. The staff member receives a reference number for the visa authorization and contacts the Embassy of Vietnam in Washington, DC to get the visa issued. The time for processing takes at least 3 weeks. It is the staff member’s responsibility to send the request to the Visiting Mission Unit within enough time to ensure completion of the authorization. The staff member should have the visa stamped into the United Nations Laissez-Passer in order to take advantage of duty-free privileges in Vietnam. Family members use their personal passports. Embassy of Vietnam in Washington, DC, web site: http://www.vietnamembassy-usa.org 1233 20th Street NW, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20037 Tel: +1-202-861-0737 Fax: +1-202-861-0917 DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 3/22 E-Mail: info@vietnamembassy-usa.org 2.2 Residential Permit/Visa, Identity Card and Duty-Free Quota Book Upon reporting to the Hanoi, Vietnam country office duty station, the staff member and family start the procedure to get a residence visa stamped in their passports, as well as a local identity card and the duty-free quota book. The staff member submits the Laissez-Passer and family members’ passports, photos (3x4 cm) and completed application forms to the Office Administration Unit (OAU). The OAU submits the application form along with a letter from the Country Director to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Protocol Department for issuance of the residential permit/visa, local identity card and the duty-free quota book. This process takes 5-10 business days. The residential permit/visa is valid until the date of expiration of the staff member’s Laissez-Passer. It is the staff member’s responsibility to ensure validity of the passport and the personal passports of family members, and to initiate the renewal process when needed. After a few days of receipt of the residential permit/visa, the OAU requests the local identity card and the duty-free quota book. The staff member receives 2 blank quota books for completion and signature. These are returned to the Protocol Department and the final duty-free quota book is issued after 7-15 additional working days. Staff members must possess a UNLP passport in order to receive a duty-free quota book. The duty-free quota book is required in order for the customs clearance of the relocation shipment and for duty-free purchase of an automobile and other duty-free quota goods. This privilege is valid for the first six months at the duty station. It is the staff member’s responsibility to return the quota book to the OAU after the first 3 months to have the remaining quota of wine and drinks stamped for purchase. Contact the OAU for assistance in determining duty-free privileges. It is the staff member’s responsibility to retain the duty-free quota book until departure from Vietnam, as it will be needed to clear the relocation shipment out of the country, as well as to sell a tax-free automobile. The duty-free quota book is submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by the Office Administration Unit prior to the staff member’s departure. 3 HEALTH 3.1 HSD Country Health Services The Country Health Services (CHS) unit of the Health Service Department provides medical and administrative guidance to HQ and country staff at all duty stations, and coordinates medical evacuations. Contact +1 202 458 4505. 4 SOS The WBG group is a member of International SOS (www.sosinternational.com) which provides international healthcare and emergency medical assistance worldwide. International SOS is the world’s leading provider of medical assistance, international healthcare, security services and outsourced customer care. International SOS provides advice or assistance abroad 24/7 whether it is a minor complaint or a serious illness. International standards of primary medical care in developing countries can also be accessed through International SOS’s own network of International SOS clinics. In case of accident or serious illness, International SOS is on standby to provide immediate help anywhere in the world. They offer a complete support system including patient transfer and evacuation or repatriation. DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 4/22 4.1 Vaccinations Recommended vaccinations for Vietnam: You can find this information in the SOS country guides. To access the SOS site you need Bank’s membership number: 1CMA1005. The url for the SOS site is: www.internationalsos.com 4.2 Health Information for Travelers Additional country health information can be found in the Health Information for Travelers to Vietnam in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website (http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/default.aspx) 4.3 Medical Information on Vietnam Vietnamese medical facilities do not meet international standards, and frequently lack medications and supplies. While international health clinics in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can provide acceptable care for minor injuries and illnesses, more serious problems will often require medical evacuation. Please note that if the person who is injured or ill is a minor, only one adult receives authorization to accompany the child in the event of an emergency medical evacuation. In the event of an emergency or non-emergency medical evacuation, the staff member and family will work with L. Quinn McClean, MSN, MPH, the WBG Regional Medical Officer. She helps to make arrangements and to advise on the procedure for evacuations. L. Quinn McClean, MSN, MPH Regional Medical Officer Country Health Services Health Services Dept. The World Bank 14 Martin Pl. Sydney Australia, 2000 office: (61) (2) 9235-6528 cell: (61) (4) 23 606-850 qmcclean@worldbank.org Doctors and hospitals usually expect immediate cash payment for all services. However, the World Bank Hanoi, Vietnam country office is a member of International SOS Clinic – Hanoi and the Hanoi French Hospital. The Resource Management Unit will supply the staff member and family members with a World Bank membership card for the Hanoi French Hospital. World Bank staff are entitled to discounted services with use of the card, but staff must submit forms individually for insurance reimbursement. At the International SOS Clinic, the staff person or family member should inform the clinic that they are affiliated with the World Bank. Take proof of health insurance to ensure that SOS will submit insurance reimbursement on the staff member’s behalf. For medical services paid for by cash, the attending doctor will have to complete the appropriate forms required by Aetna, Vanbreda or other insurance providers in order to ensure reimbursement (make sure the hospital/doctor’s bill includes diagnosis). The appropriate Aetna forms can be downloaded through the Bank’s intranet (via MIP – Aetna – Forms). Check with the insurance provider to confirm what information is needed at the time of the doctor’s visit. Many prescription medications are available, although some local pharmacies have been known to carry counterfeit medications. Bring an adequate supply of prescription medications and, if DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 5/22 refills must be sent from abroad, be sure to make arrangements beforehand. A supply of basic medicine chest items should also be brought. The Country Health Services unit in Headquarters will supply the staff member with a starter medical kit, which is supplied through the World Bank Health Clinic. Additional items in the medical kit can be re-ordered via pouch mail. Similarly, refills of prescription medications can be ordered and shipped via pouch mail to the country office. Prescription refill forms are supplied by the Country Health Services unit. The Country Health Services in HQ provides basic food and water precaution information at the pre-assignment briefing. Some families choose to purchase an ozone maker to wash fruits and vegetables in their homes. Household staff should be advised about procedures for keeping foods clean and the kitchen environment safe. The tap water in Vietnam is not safe to drink and bottled water is easily available and cheap. General disease-related information is supplied through Country Health Services and can be accessed through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. From time to time, updated disease information and health warnings specific to Vietnam are circulated through a United Nations weekly security update (see Security section). Ambulance Service Local ambulance: dial 115 (Vietnamese language only) Hanoi French Hospital ambulance: dial (04) 3574-1111 4.4 Medical Referral If you are sick or injured or need medical advice please contact HSD Country Health Services, the World Bank Group Regional Medical Officer and/or SOS first. Hospitals/Clinics International SOS Clinic – Hanoi 31 Hai Ba Trung, Hoan Kiem District Tel: +84 4 3934 0666 www.internationalsos.com International SOS Clinic – Ho Chi Minh City 65 Nguyen Du Street, District 1 Tel: +84 4 3829 8424 www.internationalsos.com Hanoi Family Medical Practice Van Phuc Compound, 298 I Kim Ma Road, Ba Dinh District Tel: +84 4 3843-0748 www.vietnammedicalpractice.com Ho Chi Minh City Family Medical Practice Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan Street, District 1 Tel: +84 4 3822-7848 DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 6/22 www.vietnammedicalpractice.com Hanoi French Hospital 1 Phuong Mai Road, Dong Da Tel: +84 4 3577-1100 www.hfh.com.vn For a listing of medical specialists in Hanoi, consult the Hanoi Guide1 and other reference materials. 5 CUSTOMS REGULATIONS Please refer to section 2.2 for details about customs clearance of the shipment of household effects. Customs clearance of a staff member’s personal effects and household goods in Vietnam occurs only upon the staff member’s arrival at the duty station and after the diplomatic privileges are processed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Protocol Department. It is advised to keep the arrivals customs declaration upon entry at the airport for the purpose of customs clearance in case the duty-free quota book is still pending. The Office Administration Unit assists in providing official verification of procedural papers prepared by the authorized local shipping agent. Staff members sign the papers and are responsible for making delivery arrangements with the shipping agent. It is advisable to hold onto a copy of the insurance form prepared prior to the move in order to use it as a reference at the time of shipment delivery. It can also be helpful to maintain possession of that insurance form to ease the process of document preparation at the time of departure from Vietnam. 6 SECURITY Upon arrival in Vietnam, staff members and their families may choose to register with the embassy of their country of origin. The World Bank is included in the United Nations security plan for Vietnam. The Office Administration Unit provides the names of staff and their families to the UN, and the UN issues an emergency contact card for each person. The United Nations circulates a Vietnam-specific weekly security update to all World Bank staff. Family members receive the update via the World Bank Vietnam Family Network listserv. Additional travel and security information can be found on the US State Department Vietnam Country Specific Information page. http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1060.html Although created for Americans traveling to Vietnam this page has information which can be helpful for people of all nationalities on topics such as crime, what to avoid, traffic safety and road conditions, and medical facilities. 1 The Hanoi Guide is published by the Hanoi International Women’s Club (hiwchanoiguide@gmail.com, www.hanoi-iwc.com). You will receive it from the country office Admin Unit during your pre-assignment trip or upon arrival. You can also request it from them. DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 7/22 7 SPOUSE/PARTNER CAREER SERVICES 7.1 Spouse Work Permit Regulations Work permits are necessary for almost all nationalities and require a considerable amount of paperwork and documentation. Permits may be obtained before or after arriving in Vietnam, and require a letter of invitation or employment. Many businesses assist their staff in obtaining the appropriate visas and work permits. Refer to the Vietnam Ministry of Planning and Investment website for details about applying for a work permit for foreign laborers in Vietnam: www.business.gov.vn/LicenseDetail.aspx?id=1440. While the Office Administration Unit will assist in providing guidance on work permit regulations if any currently available in connection with diplomatic privilege, it is the spouse’s individual responsibility to seek and secure employment in Vietnam. 7.2 Information resources/ Relevant links The following are links to sites which contain general information about living in Vietnam including advice for job seekers and job vacancies. VietnamWorks http://www.vietnamworks.com.vn/?lang=2 This site currently features about 3,000 job postings from across Vietnam. Users can search for jobs, get career advice, and upload their resume. Volunteer Abroad http://www.volunteerabroad.com/search.cfm This site is an extensive resource for volunteer job opportunities all over the world. InterAction http://www.interaction.org American Council for voluntary international action. VUFU-NGO Resource Centre, Vietnam http://www.ngocentre.org.vn/ The VUFO-NGO Resource Centre was established in 1993 through a partnership between International Non-Government Organizations (INGOs) working in Vietnam, and the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations (VUFO). The objectives of the Resource Centre are to promote, facilitate, and contribute to the sharing of information, resources and experiences within and between INGOs, their partners and local organizations, in order to improve the quality and impact of their work in Vietnam; strengthen the relationship and enhance the dialogues between INGOs and other development actors in Vietnam, including government agencies, donors and local organizations. Craigslist Vietnam http://vietnam.craigslist.org/ This part of the large Craigslist site has classifieds for Vietnam, including jobs, housing, events, items for sale, and more. DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 8/22 8 HOUSING 8.1 Neighborhoods Staff members and their families are responsible for the house selection process. They may choose to work with a licensed real estate agency. The World Bank Vietnam Family Network can provide recommendations for real estate agents, as well as comments on types of housing and neighborhoods in Hanoi. Types of housing in Hanoi include single-family furnished/unfurnished homes, furnished/unfurnished apartments, villas, townhouses, extended-stay hotels/apartments. Neighborhoods to consider: Tay Ho (West Lake): 20-30 minutes drive to the World Bank office and other parts of downtown; 5-10 minutes drive to the United Nations International School (UNIS); 20-30 minutes drive to Hanoi International School. Walking distance to food shops, small commercial area, various preschools. Many houses are located on or near the lake. Housing includes single-family homes, furnished/unfurnished apartments,extended-stay hotels. Ciputra (a gated community): 30-40 minutes drive to World Bank office and other parts of downtown; walking distance to UNIS; 20-30 minutes drive to Hanoi International School. Walking distance to limited commercial area. Housing includes townhouses, villas and furnished apartments. Downtown (apartments): walking distance to the World Bank office, Old quarter, shops and restaurants; 20-30 minutes drive to UNIS or Hanoi International School; 20 minutes drive to Tay Ho pre-schools. Housing includes apartments and restored villas managed and rented by the Diplomatic Service Department of the Vietnam Government. Apartment buildings to consider include Hanoi Lake View (1 Thanh Nien Rd), Co.Co. (14 Thuy Khue St.), Sun Red River Building (23 Phan Chu Trinh St.), Coco Village, Hanoi Lake (11 Nam Trang Rd.), Lake Front (18 Tran Vu Road), Skyline (4 Dang Dung Rd.), Rainbow Building (7 Trieu Viet Vuong Rd.). In the event that the staff member does not secure permanent housing during the pre-assignment visit, the family may choose to stay in an extended-stay accommodation upon arriving at the duty station. Extended-stay options (for more options, check the Hanoi Guide or other reference materials): Sedona Suites 96 To Ngoc Van, Tay Ho Tel: (84-4) 3718 0888 Oriental Palace 33 Tay Ho Road, Tay Ho Tel: (84-4) 3829 1200 Somerset Grand (Hanoi Towers) 49 Hai Ba Trung Tel: (84-4) 3934 2342 Somerset West Lake, Tay Ho 254D Thuy Khue Tel: (84-4) 3843 0030 Golden Lodge Resort, Tay Ho 2 Tay Ho Road (84-4) 3718 0100 Thien Thai Apartment Building, Tay Ho DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 9/22 #2 Lane 30 Tay Ho Road Tel: (84-4) 0943 889 509 (Ms. Mai, Manager) Fraser Suites, Tay Ho 51 Xuan Dieu Tel: (84-4) 3719 8877 Once a house has been selected, the staff member will sign a Memorandum of Understanding to secure the house, or a Lease Agreement with the landlord. The Office Administration Unit can supply a template for a typical MOU and Lease Agreement. Prior to signing the MOU, the Office Administration Unit will assist in inspecting the housing for safety and security, review the MOU and provide any necessary guidance. The staff member should be prepared to put down a deposit (usually one month’s rent) in U.S. dollars at the time of signing the MOU. The relocation grant, issued in Washington, D.C., can be used for payments such as a housing deposit. It is recommended that the staff member check the landlord’s references prior to final housing selection. Check with the World Bank Vietnam Family Network for further guidance. Lease negotiations are the responsibility of the staff person, though guidance can be sought from the OAU. It is common to request inclusion in the lease agreement of standard kitchen appliances, a washing machine and dryer, dehumidifiers, air-conditioning units, window screens and a back-up generator (strong enough to power the refrigerator/freezer, at least one A/C unit and some lights). It is advisable to follow a checklist for negotiating with the landlord, and each agreement should include the World Bank’s standard Diplomatic Clause. The lease agreement does not require legal review by World Bank Headquarters. Staff can coordinate with the Office Administration Unit to receive local legal counsel if it is needed for legal review or dispute over the lease agreement. Checklist for Lease Negotiations with Landlord * Exact name of landlord and authorized signatory * Exact address of premises—description of space * Inventory of equipment, furniture and furnishings on premises * Terms of lease agreement * Commencement date of lease agreement * Renewal option—description and date of notice * Landlord’s consent for partial sublet * Monthly rental amount and type of currency * Advance payment of rent—amount and date to be made * Responsibility for taxes—adjustment for increases * Adjustment of rent based on Government cost index * Utility costs responsibilities if part of lease * Deposit of payment in landlord’s account * Condominium fee and projected increases of fees * Responsibility for structural repairs and damage to building * Responsibility for cosmetic repairs to building/ordinary wear and tear * Landlord’s insurance coverage of premises * Bank’s tenant insurance of coverage * Location of settlement of disputes between Landlord and Bank * Diplomatic clause; Preservation of Immunity clause; Force Majeure clause * Termination conditions DIPLOMATIC CLAUSE PROVIDED ALWAYS that in the event the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development or International Finance Corporation closes its offices in (City) DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 10/22 _________ for any reason, Lessee may terminate this lease by giving Lessor (one) month’s written notice whereupon the balance of any rent paid in advance by Lessee and the house deposit shall be refunded by Lessor. Such termination of this lease will be without prejudice to any right of action or remedy of either party in respect of any antecedent breach of the terms and conditions contained herein. The staff member may be required to make a rental advance equivalent to up to six to nine smonths’ rent at the time of taking possession of the rental property. The staff member may request the rental advance from the Resources Management Unit in the Vietnam country office. Upon reporting to the duty station, the staff member provides a copy of the lease to the Resource Management Officer (Budget office), along with an invoice or payment request from the landlord. The rental advance is made to the staff member’s local bank account. Currency of payment is subject to prevailing foreign exchange regulations of Vietnam. Currently, payment can be made in USD into the staff’s USD account in Vietnam (see section on Banking for information on setting up a local USD account in Vietnam). It takes approximately one week for the bank to process the rental advance to the staff’s account. It is the staff’s responsibility to check the appropriate currency for paying rent to the landlord which is also subject to the local FOREX regulations. Currently, rent payment should be made in local currency (VND). 8.2 Furniture and equipment Furnished homes and apartments are available. In addition, tenants can sometimes negotiate to have the landlord furnish the home in an agreed-upon style for an increased monthly rent. For staff members who select unfurnished homes and opt not to ship furniture, there is a wide range of prices and quality in furnishings in Hanoi. In deciding whether or not to ship furniture, it is important to consider the long-term effects on furnishings caused by exposure to high levels of humidity in Hanoi. It is possible to find most living/dining/bed/family room furnishings. Some people may find the mattresses to be very hard, so they may opt to include mattresses and pillows in the shipment. Please note that the standard bed sizes in Vietnam are different from the U.S.2 Plan accordingly in shipping linens and blankets. Contact the Accounting Unit upon arrival at the duty station to start the procedure for receipt of the furniture allowance, in accordance with change of duty station benefits from Headquarters. The allowance can be deposited into a bank account or through payroll. It is also common to have furniture made to order in Vietnam. Prices of materials are rising, but there are still good deals on custom-made furniture. Beware of the quality of the final product and make sure to retain the final payment until it has been inspected. Bring copies of furniture catalogues and pictures of particular items. Custom-made furniture can generally be produced in 2-4 weeks. See the Hanoi Guide or check with the World Bank Vietnam Family Network for resources and a listing of furniture stores in Hanoi. Tenants should negotiate the inclusion of standard appliances and equipment (see section 8.1). Additional appliances and equipment not included in the lease can be found at local electronics 2 Standard mattresses sizes in Vietnam (mattresses can be made to order for different sizes): twin bed: 120 cm x 200cm (34.3 in x 57 in) queen:160 cm x 200 cm (45.7 in x 57 in) king:180 cm x 200 cm (51.4 in x 57 in) DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 11/22 shops and street-side vendors. See the Hanoi Guide and other reference materials for resources. 8.3 Utilities Upon taking possession of the rental property, the tenant is responsible for ensuring payment of utilities (water, electricity, phone). Tenants do not typically need to transfer the utilities into their names. For single-family homes, payment of utilities is collected on a monthly basis by a representative from the utility company that comes to the residence. In apartments, payment is often made directly to the landlord. The range of utility costs varies based on the time of year, but be prepared to have at least 3.000.000 or 4.000.000 VND at home in order to pay the electricity bill. Leave funds with household staff if traveling for an extended period. A note about trash collection and recycling (for single-family homes): in many parts of Hanoi, households put all their garbage and recycling outside of the gate and it is collected by trash/recycling collectors who walk through the streets with trash carts. People come door-todoor to collect cardboard, bottles and other recyclable items. There is no formal recycling program in the city of Hanoi. The tenant is responsible for setting up telephone, cable and internet service. Some residences already come equipped with the phone lines and cable/internet wiring. It is up to the tenant to negotiate these items with the landlord prior to signing the lease. The following is a list of contacts for setting up these services (all providers have some English language representatives). For telephone: Name of company: VNPT Address: #4 Dinh Le street, Hanoi Telephone number: (04) 3 9361405 Fax: (04) 3 9361397 For Cable TV: Option 1: Name of company: Hanoi Cable TV Company Address: #30 Trung Liet Street, Dong Da dist,., Hanoi Telephone number: (04) 3 5375561 or (04) 3 5375562 Fax: (04) 3 3 8572782 Option 2 Name of company: Vietnam Cable TV Company Address: 16 Thuy Khue street, Tay Ho dist., Hanoi Telephone number: (04) 3 7280288 or (04) 3 7280299 Internet Service Providers Both internet service providers offer wireless access, or for freelance assistance, contact Mr.Bang at 0906 008 004. Option 1: Name of company: FPT Address: 48 Van Bao street, Ba Dinh dist., Hanoi or 75 Tran Hung Dao street, Hoan Kiem dist., DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 12/22 Hanoi. Telephone number: (04) 3 7601060 Fax: (04) 3 8223111 Contact: Mr.Hung (cell phone: 0915062090) Option 2 : Name of company: VNPT Address: 75 Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem dist., Hanoi Telephone number: (04) 3 8266001 Due to frequent power outages and rolling blackouts (at certain times of the year), a voltage stabilizer is recommended for such electrical units as TVs and computers, in addition to the house backup generator. With regard to mobile phone service, phones and SIM cards (to activate service) can be purchased at any of the mobile phone stores in Hanoi. Once activated, the user can choose to purchase recharge minutes or purchase a monthly plan. Minutes are available at many small convenience stores and food shops. Phones from abroad can also be activated as long as they are unlocked. Staff members will be given a World Bank office issued SIM card. They will receive a monthly bill to review and claim personal calls. 9 HOUSEHOLD HELP AND SECURITY GUARDS Housekeepers, cooks, drivers, and nannies are all available and relatively easy to find. Salaries are usually paid in U.S. dollars and vary depending on the employee’s experience, initiative, and language abilities. When hiring household staff, seek recommendations from colleagues, the World Bank Vietnam Family Network and other expatriates. For security reasons, only hire someone that another person introduces. Lock up all valuables and money so as not to misplace them. It’s very important to train the staff you hire to the way you prefer them to work, even those that have worked for other international staff. Be sure to clearly outline the expectations and responsibilities of each household staff member at the time of hiring them. It is advisable to make a contract and have your copy signed by the employee. The Office Administration Unit can supply sample contracts for reference. Also have the employee sign a receipt for each salary payment received. Household staff are entitled to a 13th month salary, also known as the Tet bonus. This amount is typically paid the week prior to Tet (date varies each year). Household staff are entitled to a salary increase at least once a year, usually on the anniversary of the start date. Contact the Office Administration Unit for more information about the employer’s duties according to local labor legislation. For safety and security purposes, the World Bank Vietnam field office highly recommends employing security guards to protect the rental property if it is a single-family home. As with other household staff, it is recommended to seek guards who have worked for other international families and come with references. The staff member is fully responsible for selecting the security guards and setting the terms of employment (including number of hours worked, rest days and holidays, overtime allowances, frequency of salary adjustments, Tet bonuses, etc.) in line with the local Labor Code. For security purposes, staff members are advised to submit the guards’ curriculum vitae to the Office Administration Unit for review. Once the staff member enters into a contract agreement with the guards, a copy of the contract is held on file with the OAU. The Office Administration Unit will provide a suggested template for an employment contract at the staff member’s request. DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 13/22 The Vietnam country office has issued guidelines for the reimbursement of security guard expenses. They stipulate that the staff member sets the remuneration at reasonable levels in line with Vietnam’s prevailing market conditions. Remuneration should be guided by each individual guard’s seniority (with a special premium for past employment with Bank staff) and his performance. Contact the Office Administration Unit to obtain details about current typical salary levels for security guards. The typical work week for guards is 48 hours, with overtime arranged in exceptional circumstances. Guards typically receive a Tet bonus in cash; however, this is not considered a reimbursable expense by the World Bank. Staff are expected to increase guard salaries at least once a year (as with other household staff), usually on the anniversary of the start date, taking into account performance, changes in the job market and cost-of-living increases over the corresponding period. At the end of each calendar year, the Office Administration Unit will review market conditions and update the suggested salary benchmarks. Staff members are entitled to reimbursement for the reasonable expense of employing the guards on a monthly or less frequent interval. The staff member submits proof of payment for the guards to the Accounting Unit and reimbursement is made through the staff member’s payroll. A special note about the Vietnamese New Year (Tet): The Vietnamese New Year falls in the beginning of the calendar year, according to the lunar calendar. It is a very important family time for Vietnamese people. In addition to the Tet bonus mentioned in the previous information, international families in Hanoi should be aware that Vietnamese employees are very busy in the days leading up to Tet, preparing the home, the local pagoda and many foods and celebrations. It is sometimes common for employers to provide a Tet ‘basket’ as a gift in addition to the bonus. This is at the employer’s discretion. As Tet is very important family time for Vietnamese, it is highly advisable to give the residence security guards leave as contracted. In the event that security coverage is needed during Tet, it is advisable to have the guards during the night shift (11pm – 6am). For more information on Tet and other Vietnamese holidays, see the Reference Materials section. 10 SCHOOLS While choosing a school overseas, it is important to keep in mind the type of education your children have had and where they will be moving to at the end of your assignment. Staff members are responsible for the procedure for enrolling their children in school in Hanoi. Contact the Office Administration Unit or the World Bank Vietnam Family Network for information and references about the various schools in Hanoi. Be sure to determine the application deadlines for schools in Hanoi at the time of planning your move. Staff members should not assume that they have priority status for admissions due to affiliation with the World Bank. Some schools do, however, provide priority status on a case-by-case basis. Staff members are entitled to reimbursement of education costs according to the Benefits on Change of Duty Station. In order to receive reimbursement for education costs, staff members must submit a request for reimbursement via the HR kiosk on the World Bank intranet. Once processed, the total amount as outlined by the staff member is deposited via payroll. At the end of each school year, the staff member must have the school sign a form issued via the HR kiosk to confirm payment of the fees. After that form is submitted, the staff member receives the reimbursement for the following school year. Staff members should be prepared to pay for admissions fees and tuition deposits for the first school year out of the Relocation grant prior to receiving the education benefit reimbursement. DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 14/22 10.1 List of international schools in Hanoi The following are schools that offer an international curriculum. For more information check the Hanoi Guide and other reference materials. United Nations International School (UNIS Hanoi) UNIS offers instruction in English to students from pre-K to grade 12. The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Its curriculum is designed to respond to the needs of international students. The student body includes approximately 850 students of several different nationalities. An active mother tongue program allows students to enhance their classroom learning by incorporating their mother tongue language into their academic experience. The school year runs from the end of August through the middle of June. After school and sports activities include basketball, soccer, baseball, volleyball, art classes, computer skills, dance, choir, music, and drama. Mailing Address: GPO Box 313, Hanoi Tel: +84 4 3758 1551 Fax: +84 4 3758 1542 Street Address: Phu Thuong Ward, Lac Long Quan Rd., Tay Ho District, Hanoi Email: info@unishanoi.org, admissions@unishanoi.org Website: http://www.unishanoi.org Hanoi International School (HIS) Hanoi International School offers classes in English for students from Kindergarten through grade 13. It offers the International Baccalaureate program. Its school year runs from the end of August until the middle of June. The student body includes about 250 students from 35 different countries. HIS has an international curriculum based on the Cambridge University International General Certificate of Education (IGCSE) and the IB program. Classes and extracurricular activities include computer technology, physical education, art, music, drama, foreign languages, swimming, basketball, and volleyball, among others. English as a Second Language is also available. HIS supports inclusion in the classroom and is willing to consider children with learning differences and special needs. The school has a part-time resource teacher on staff to work with children requiring additional assistance. If a student requires an aide in the classroom or a particularly high level of support, parents are expected to pay these additional costs. Address: 48 Lieu Giai Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Vietnam Tel: +84 4 3832-7379/8140 Fax: +84 4 3762-4814 Website: http://www.hisvietnam.com Email: mainoffice@hisvietnam.com Lycée Français Alexandre Yersin DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 15/22 The Lycée Français is recognized by the French Ministry of Education and provides classes in French to students from pre-K to grade 12. The school has about 400 students and includes two laboratories, a library, a gym, a cafeteria, and a computer center. The school year begins in early September and finishes near the end of June. Sports and extracurricular activities include art, choir, Vietnamese, dance, kung-fu, judo, hockey, dance, handball, basketball, and soccer. Address: 12 Nui Truc St., Giang Vo, Hanoi Tel: +84 4 3843-6779 Fax: +84-4 3823-2023 Website: http://www.lyceefrancaishanoi.net Email: secretariat.lfay@yahoo.fr The Rainbow School Rainbow School is a small international pre-school for children from 15 months to 6 years old. It follows the English national curriculum. The school year runs from the end of August until the end of June. A seven week summer program is also available. Address: 223 Au Co Road, Tay Ho District, Hanoi Tel: +84 4 3718 1390 Fax: +84 4 3718 1392 Website: http://www.rainbowpreschool.edu.vn Email: rainbowpreschool@vnn.vn Morning Star International Kindergarten (MSIK) MSIK offers a full-day or half-day educational program in English for children from 18 months to 6 years old. The school’s program is based on an Australian developmental curriculum. The school operates from mid-August until mid-June. A summer school is also available. The school has two campuses. Both campuses have large, shaded playgrounds and kitchens which prepare daily lunches and snacks. A library with books and a computer is also on site. Class size varies by age group, but every class has at least one expatriate and one Vietnamese teacher. Mailing Address: I.P.O. Box 228 Hanoi Street address: Van Phuc Campus Van Phuc 4, Van Bao Road, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi Tel: +84 4 3726 1587 Fax: +84 4 3726 1588 Website: http://www.morningstarkindergarten.com.vn Email: morningstar@hn.vnn.vn Tay Ho Campus No 98, To Ngoc Van Road Quang An Tay Ho, Hanoi Tel: +84 4 3719 5115 Fax: +84 4 3719 5116 DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 16/22 Website: http://www.morningstarkindergarten.com.vn Email: morningstar_tayho@fpt.vn Systems Little House 5 Tay Ho Road Quang An Tay Ho, Hanoi Tel: +84 4 823 8997 Fax: +84 4 3719 5116 Website: http://www.morningstarkindergarten.com.vn Email: morningstar_tayho@fpt.vn Hanoi International Kindergarten No 28 Lane 52 To Ngoc Van Quang An Tay Ho, Hanoi Tel: +84 4 3719 1248 Website: http://www.hik.edu.vn Email: contact@hik.edu.vn Kinderworld International Kindergarten Kinderworld has five kindergartens in Hanoi and three in Ho Chi Minh City. These schools provide full-day kindergarten services in English for children from 18 months to 6 years of age. The Kinderworld curriculum is devised especially for its schools by an international team of specialists. Teaching staff include native English speakers and national bilingual teachers. The school year runs from the end of August to the beginning of July. A summer program is also available. Classes and activities include subjects such as math, arts and crafts, science, music and movement, and language and literacy. Locations in Hanoi include Ciputra (also provides UniWorld campus), Hanoi Towers, Hoa Binh Tower, The Manor, VanPhuc (also provides UniWorld campus). Corporate Address: Somerset Hoabinh Towers, 3rd Floor 106 Hoang Quoc Viet St. Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam Tel: (84-4) 3755 8186 Fax: (84-4) 3755 8187 Website: http://www.kinderworld.net.vn Email: kinderworld@kinderworld.net 11 RESOURCES FOR SETTLING IN 11.1 Banking Upon arrival at the Vietnam duty station, staff should open a local USD bank account. The Office Administration Unit will supply the staff member with a letter of introduction to the bank to verify affiliation with the World Bank and to allow DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 17/22 the staff member to open a USD account with a zero balance. The staff member will need this letter along with the passport information in order to open the account. ANZ Bank 14 Le Thai To St. (84-4) 3825 8190 Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam 191 Ba Trieu St. (84-4) 3223 4234 HSBC 23 Phan Chu Trinh (84-4) 3933-3189 Be prepared to pay most expenses in cash as few establishments/stores accept credit cards (checks are very rarely used). ATM machines are widely available, but beware that fees vary depending on the ATM bank and the card used. 11.2 Mail Change your address the HR kiosk at Headquarters prior to arrival at the Vietnam duty station. Check Preparing for Your Move for information on the diplomatic pouch. The current address for the Vietnam field office is: Staff/Family Name WB MSN HANWB PO BOX 27839 Washington, DC 20038-7839 Diplomatic pouch mail is picked up and delivered to the Vietnam field office every Wednesday and Friday. Outgoing mail can be delivered to the Office Administration Unit. 11.3 Reference Materials Hanoi Guide: Useful information about shopping, health, services, leisure activities, restaurants, etc. Available through Hanoi International Women’s Club, hiwchanoiguide@gmail.com, www.hanoi-iwc.com. Hanoi Pratique (French): Similar to the Hanoi Guide, published by the Cercle des Francophones. Useful websites: http://infosharehanoi.com/; www.hanoigrapevine.com; http://newhanoian.xemzi.com/; http://livinginvietnam.com; www.ticketvn.com (ticket agent for cultural events); http://fvheritage.googlepages.com (Friends of Vietnam Heritage); Vietnam Development Information Centre: Library and bookstore offering resources on development issues in Vietnam. Resource information also includes materials on social customs and business protocol in Vietnam. Located at the ground floor of the 63 Ly Thai To building. English-language local newspapers available for home delivery include: Vietnam News (subscription in person at office) 1 Tran Hung Dao Street Tel. 84-4-9332316 E-mail: vnnews@vnagency.com.vn Thanh Nien (representative comes to your door for subscription service) 218 Tay Son St. Tel: (84-4) 3857 0981 DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 18/22 Email: lelanhuong@thanhniennews.com On-line English-language newspaper: http://english.vietnamnet.vn/news/ 11.4 Language Instruction World Bank staff and their family members are entitled to US$500.00 worth of language instruction reimbursement each year. Contact the Resources Management Unit for details on reimbursement. World Bank colleagues and other expatriates can recommend individual Vietnamese language instructors, and there is a list of Vietnamese language schools in the Hanoi Guide. 11.5 Duty-Free and other Shopping World Bank staff are entitled to six months of duty-free shopping privileges with the duty-free quota book (privileges vary for the Country Director position). The book must be submitted after the first 3 months to the Administrative Unit for new quarterly quota stamps for use. The duty-free shop in Hanoi is Hapro, C4 Giang Vo St., Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, (84-4) 3826 7984. Most commercial items can be purchased now in Vietnam (clothes, household wares, bulk food items). However, if there is a particular type of container, linen or pantry item that is needed, staff may wish to ship these with the personal effects. The World Bank Vietnam Family Network is a good resource to ask about availability of goods in Hanoi. There are small food shops in the commercial areas of each neighborhood highlighted in the Housing section and many of them deliver groceries and bottled water to the home at no additional cost. See the Hanoi Guide for contact information for local shops. Household staff can assist in ordering groceries by phone, sending out dry cleaning, purchasing meat/fish/poultry, shopping at the local fruit/vegetable market, etc. There is an organic vegetable farm in Hanoi that will deliver to the door (minimum of 8kg per week for multi-family delivery): Than Xuan Organic Vegetables, Action for the City, rauhuuco@gmail.com, (84-4) 3629-78695. There are several restaurants in the residential neighborhoods that deliver meals free of charge. Refer to the Hanoi Guide for more information. This can be particularly useful in the first days settling into a new home. 12 AUTOMOBILES 12.1 Purchase The procedure for shipment of an automobile with personal effects is as follows: The shipped automobile will clear customs upon the staff member’s arrival at the duty station and after the diplomatic privileges are processed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Protocol Department (the issuance of the residential permit/visa, local identity card and duty-free quota book). Staff members should keep the arrivals customs declaration paper upon entry for the purpose of customs clearance should the duty-free quota book not be finalized when the shipment arrives. The Office Administration Unit assists in verifying the procedural papers prepared by the authorized local shipping agent. Staff members sign the papers and are responsible for arranging for delivery of the shipment to the residence. DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 19/22 The procedure for purchase of a duty-free automobile is as follows: Staff members are entitled to the import/purchase of one duty-free vehicle within the first six months of reporting to the Vietnam duty station. Staff members are responsible for selecting and arranging for the purchase of an automobile (new or used, local or imported). Staff are encouraged to look at newspaper classifieds, bulletin boards at neighborhood shops, and to contact the World Bank Vietnam Family Network and other expatriates. New cars are also available via various local car dealers. One such dealer is Motorcare A/S (Kjaer Group A/S), www.kjaergroup.com, (84-4) 3768 9920. In the event that an imported car shipment arrives after the expiration of the duty-free privileges (6 months), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must be notified in advance for certification to support the duty-free clearance of the shipment. With the Office Administration Unit’s assistance, the staff member must (1) submit an application to the Hanoi Customs Department (129 Nguyen Phong Sac) for an import permit for a duty-free automobile; (2) obtain Customs Clearance Papers from Port Customs. Note: Car owner receives two original sets of customs clearance papers, one for registration, one for re-export/sale of car later. Maintain possession of the second set for later use. One important thing to keep in mind is that, in Vietnam, the import of motorcycles more than 3 year old and cars more than 5 year old are NOT exempted from custom duties. Furthermore, a used vehicle can only be imported free of custom duties if it has been registered in the name of the staff for at least 12 months prior to import. 12.2 Registration The procedure for automobile registration takes approximately 7-10 working days. The Office Administration Unit assists in clarifying procedures, providing official verification, and recommending service providers to handle the work at staff’s expense. Staff members can also get assistance from hired drivers to complete the process. The procedure is as follows: 1. Apply to Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Letter of Introduction for car registration (3-4 working days). 2. Apply to the Hoan Kiem District Tax Office for registration tax and fee-free certification (1 Ly Nam De St.). Same day service provided. 3. Register at the Traffic Police Department (112 Le Duan Rd.). Allow 3-4 working days. License plates are issued at this point, but the registration card takes a few days to process. The car can be operated with the plate numbers and the appointment paper. 4. Apply to the Vietnam Register Office, Ministry of Transportation, for the Book of Certification record (for periodic motor vehicle inspection for technical safety and environmental protection). Same day service provided. 12.3 Car Insurance It is the staff member’s responsibility to find an automobile insurance provider and set up coverage for the automobile. This process should be started at the same time as registration to insure the car during operation to/from the registration site. Third party liability coverage is absolutely essential. The OAU and other World Bank colleagues can make automobile insurance company recommendations. Insurance providers typically come to the World Bank office in order to complete the transaction and necessary paperwork. If the staff member hires a driver, the driver should be familiar with the procedures relating to car insurance and should maintain the Office Administration Unit phone number for assistance. DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 20/22 12.4 Resale/Re-Export The procedure for the re-export/sale/transfer of an automobile is as follows (as with the purchase/import of an automobile, the OAU assists in clarifying procedures, providing official verification, and recommending service providers to handle the work at staff’s expense): 1. Re-export: The staff member goes in person to the Traffic Police Department to deregister the car, return the license plates and original registration card. The process takes 3-4 working days. The Certification of car registration cancellation is used to clear customs for the reexport of the automobile. 2. Local sale/transfer: Sale/transfer can only be made after the automobile has been used for a minimum of 12 months from the date of registration, or at the point of termination of assignment in Vietnam. Procedural steps follow: a. Application for car transfer is made to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). MOFA issues the transfer certification/letter of introduction. The process takes 3-5 working days. b. Staff member follows the above procedure for deregistration at the Traffic Police Department. The process takes 3-4 working days. c. Submit application to Hanoi Customs Department for car transfer clearance. There is a customs inspection of the car at this step. If tax is applicable to the buyer, tax payment must be made in order for the customs clearance papers and import permit to be issued. This process takes 3-5 working days. If this step is not completed, the staff member’s shipment of personal effects cannot be cleared out. d. The Office Administration Unit notifies the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with copies of the final car transfer documentation. Note: Staff members should maintain possession of the duty-free quota book for the duration of stay in Vietnam in order to complete the procedure for the import/re-export/sale/transfer of a dutyfree automobile and for the return of the quota book to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 13 DRIVING A CAR In order to get a local driver’s license, staff members and family members who will be driving in Vietnam should bring either their US driver’s license or an international driver’s license (issued by the A.A.A. or other similar organization). The license should be translated and notarized at a licensed public notary office. The OAU assists in submitting the application along with copies of the staff member’s (and family member’s if applicable) ID card and passport to the Ministry of Transportation. This procedure takes more than one week. The validity of the Vietnamese license will be the same as that of the US or AAA license so it is usually preferable to submit a US license if its validity is more than one year (AAA licenses are issued for one year only). Given the very challenging driving and traffic conditions in Hanoi, most staff owning a car decide not to drive on a regular basis and hire a driver instead. For staff members who wish to hire a driver, the OAU can supply a sample employment contract for reference. As is the case with household staff and security guards, drivers should come with checked references and the terms of employment should be clearly stated. Contact the World Bank Vietnam Family Network or other expatriates for recommendations on drivers and employment scenarios. Please note that in Vietnam, drivers typically work during weekdays, so factor in overtime pay for use during evenings and weekends. Some families may choose to use taxis, hired motorbikes, local buses or bicycles as alternative forms of transportation in the city. In the event of an accident involving the staff member’s automobile, the driver should contact the nearest traffic police, as well as notifying the Office Administration Unit and the staff member’s automobile insurance company. Locally hired drivers should be familiar with standard procedures in the event of an accident. DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 21/22 Taxi cabs are available throughout the city. If you choose not to buy a car, you may develop a working relationship with a particular taxi driver, whom you can call directly for rides to work, school, etc. Some companies are more reliable than others with regard to the metered fare. See the Hanoi Guide for taxi recommendations. WB61693 3/21/2016 DESTINATION GUIDE VIETNAM 3/21/2016 22/22