Internships in Ho Chi Minh City

A program to suit you

Do you have a taste for adventure?

Whatever your interests, we have an option for you. We offer a customized travel program in addition to our one and two-month internship programs.

Take a look at our additional program options in Ho Chi Minh City:

Internship Programs in Ho Chi Minh City

Experiences Programs in Ho Chi Minh City

We offer 18 professional Career Fields for all our internship programs

Program dates

Places are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to apply at least 6-10 weeks prior to your preferred start date.

Ho Chi Minh City Placement-Only Dates

We also offer a Placement-Only program for 1, 2, 3 months all year round.

Please refer to all program start dates HERE.

Placement-Only Programs include guaranteed internship placement & emergency support, but exclude accommodation, visas, and events.

High-quality Accommodation

By choosing our Internship Program you will be provided guaranteed accommodation in fully furnished shared apartments or private studios.

• The accommodation is vetted and approved by CRCC Asia
• Access to private or shared kitchens and laundry services
• Wifi and utilities are included  (there is a fair usage policy, so any excess may be deducted from your accommodation deposit)
• Convenient location with amenities and/or public transport links in the surrounding area
• Within reasonable commuting distance of all our host companies
• Some accommodations require a refundable deposit at check-in

One of CRCC Asia’s 5 Key Learning Objectives is “Global Connections” – therefore we will do our best to ensure all participants are housed in the same building/complex. Due to demand, for some program locations it might be necessary to use accommodation in different locations across the city.

All costs are estimated in USD:

Planning your budget for your internship experience in Ho Chi Minh City is an important step. This estimated cost of living guide will help you understand the potential expenses you may encounter during your stay. Please note that these are estimates and your actual costs will vary significantly based on the season, location and your individual spending habits, dining choices, and lifestyle preferences.

For instance, your budget may be influenced by factors like whether you prefer cooking at home or dining out, your choice of transportation, and your shopping and entertainment needs. Additionally, unexpected changes, such as fluctuations in exchange rates or local prices, could impact your overall spending.

We strongly recommend conducting thorough research and considering your specific needs and preferences when planning your budget for your trip.

Visa Requirements

As of August 15, 2023, citizens of 25 countries on this list are allowed to stay in Vietnam for 14-90 days from the time of entry without having to apply for a visa.

However, if your country is not on the visa exemption list, you will need to obtain a visa to enter Vietnam. Please speak with our Admissions Team to know more about the visa application process. Your visa & processing costs are not included in your Program Fee.

CRCC Asia has partnered with Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City, New Jersey, to offer a U.S. transcript and award 3, 6, or 9 academic credits for our international internship programs. Students will be enrolled in CRCC-295: CRCC Asia Internship Course.

Credit awarded will be based on the successful completion of CRCC Asia’s Global Internship Curriculum, CareerBridge, proof of hours worked, reflective essay, and an evaluation from your host company supervisor.

Access & Mobility

Q: How accessible is public transport in Ho Chi Minh City for people with disabilities?

• A: Ho Chi Minh City’s public transport is improving, but there are still challenges. The bus system covers much of the city, and it’s an affordable way to get around. However, buses are not always equipped with features like ramps or low floors, which can make it difficult for people with mobility issues. Ride-hailing services like Grab are very popular and offer a convenient alternative for those needing more flexibility. The upcoming metro system, expected to be fully operational soon, should provide more accessible options.

Q: Are sidewalks and streets pedestrian-friendly?

• A: The streets in Ho Chi Minh City are vibrant and busy, often filled with motorbikes. While some central areas have well-maintained sidewalks, others can be uneven or cluttered with vendors and parked vehicles, which can pose challenges for pedestrians, especially those with disabilities. However, pedestrian-friendly zones are expanding, particularly in District 1, and the city is making efforts to improve infrastructure.

Q: Are public buildings accessible?

• A: Many newer buildings, especially malls and hotels in central districts, are built with accessibility in mind, offering ramps and elevators. However, older buildings and some public spaces may lack these features. As the city modernizes, more facilities are being updated to be more inclusive.

LGBTQIA+ Norms

Q: Is Ho Chi Minh City LGBTQIA+ friendly?

• A: Ho Chi Minh City has an emerging LGBTQIA+ scene, and the community is gaining visibility. Events like VietPride are celebrated, and there are a number of LGBTQIA+ friendly bars and clubs, particularly in District 1 and District 3. While societal attitudes are slowly shifting toward more acceptance, it’s still common for people to be discreet about their sexuality in some parts of the city.

Q: What legal protections exist for the LGBTQIA+ community?

• A: Same-sex marriage is not legally recognized in Vietnam, but the law does not prohibit same-sex couples from living together or organizing private ceremonies. There is growing advocacy for more rights, and societal attitudes are gradually changing, especially among younger generations.

Race and Ethnicity

Q: How diverse is Ho Chi Minh City’s population?

• A: Ho Chi Minh City is a multicultural hub, with a significant mix of ethnic Vietnamese, Chinese, Khmer, and an increasing number of expatriates. Areas like District 5, known as Chinatown, offer a vibrant mix of cultures. Expats from Western and other Asian countries are settling in growing numbers, making the city feel more international. This diversity is reflected in the city’s cuisine and culture.

Q: Do foreigners face challenges in Ho Chi Minh City?

• A: While most foreigners find Ho Chi Minh City to be welcoming, there may be occasional cultural misunderstandings or assumptions. For example, some locals might assume that Westerners are wealthier or that foreigners from certain countries are only in Vietnam to teach English. However, these interactions are typically curious rather than hostile, and most expats find the city easy to navigate once they’ve settled in.

Religious Tolerance

Q: What is the religious landscape in Ho Chi Minh City?

• A: Ho Chi Minh City is religiously diverse, with Buddhism, Catholicism, and indigenous beliefs like Cao Dai practiced alongside each other. Temples, churches, and pagodas can be found throughout the city, such as the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and Jade Emperor Pagoda. Religious festivals like Tet (Lunar New Year) and the Mid-Autumn Festival are widely celebrated and are integral to local culture.

Q: How should I behave when visiting religious sites?

A: Visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering temples or pagodas. It’s also respectful to remain quiet and avoid taking photographs where not allowed. Participating in religious customs, like lighting incense or making offerings, is welcomed if done respectfully.