Volunteer in

Vietnam

Frequently asked questions(Vietnam - FAQ's)

FAQ's Application and Program Details

When should I apply for the volunteer programs in Vietnam? expand_more

It is advised to apply for the projects once the volunteering/ traveling dates are decided as there are limited spots available. The application fee is valid for one full year and can be sent earlier than the desired year of volunteering for timely confirmation of the seat. As soon as you decide the travel dates, we suggest you to apply for the program and hold your spot. 
The earlier you apply, the better it is, as you would get more time to be prepared for your program in Hanoi, Vietnam, and complete the necessary documentation, Visa formalities as well as take the vaccinations in time.

How long will it take to process my application? Will my application be accepted ? expand_more

Usually, it takes around 10-12 working days for the application to be processed and placement to be confirmed. After we review your CV and documents, your booking is confirmed and the booking confirmation is updated in your My Account and you can view the information in your account. The application acceptance depends on the availability of seats in the project as well as the eligibility criteria of the program (age, skills and experience etc.).

Are there any necessary requirements to participate in the Hanoi - Vietnam volunteer programs? expand_more

Below are the necessary requirements to participate in the Vietnam volunteer projects:
Volunteers must be 18 years or older at the time of joining the project. 
Volunteers joining the medical volunteer project must be either Pre-Medical, Medical or Nursing students or possess other qualifications related to the medical and nursing field. Medical professionals such as doctors and nurses are also welcome to join the program as well. 
Volunteers need to have an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment. 
The volunteer should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference.
Clean Criminal Background Check Report for participants joining Childcare and Teaching Projects.
Participants must be in good health.

Can I volunteer as part of a group? expand_more

Yes, you are welcome to take part in Vietnam Volunteer Program as part of a group. We welcome families, friends, high school students, college/university and corporate groups to volunteer together in the India program. Volunteering Solutions Vietnam programs have hosted large student groups as well as families coming to volunteer in the programs. We have hosted groups, from universities in UK, Europe, and the USA as well as other countries.

I haven’t traveled or volunteered abroad before. Can I still be a part of VolSol experience ? expand_more

Yes, most definitely you can, as we believe that every participant brings something new to the project. If you do not have previous experience, we offer you the opportunity to have a great start with us. We make international volunteering easy – not only are our Volunteer Abroad opportunities rooted in offering you extensive support, but they are also very affordable.

When do I need to arrive in Hanoi for my program? What will happen once I arrive in Hanoi? expand_more

All volunteers need to arrive at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi on the program starting date i.e First or Third Thursday of the month. Volunteers will be received at the International Airport by the local representative and will be transferred to the volunteer accommodation. A brief orientation would be conducted the next day where you will also be shown the area around the accommodations, the nearest ATM, market, and will be given safety guidelines as well as information about your project.

Flights and Visa

Does Volunteering Solutions help with Visa? expand_more

All enrolled participants are provided information on the appropriate Visa requirements for Vietnam in the pre-departure manual. You can also contact your pre-departure point of contact to know more about the Visa requirements.

What are the recommended airlines to fly to Hanoi? expand_more

Noi Bai International Airport is Vietnam’s largest airport and is well connected with major international destinations.

Some of the international airlines flying to Vietnam include:

From the USA
Air China
Cathay Pacific
Vietnam Airlines

From the UK
China Southern    
Vietnam Airlines

From Australia
Vietnam Airlines
Jetstar

From Asia
Malaysia Airlines
AirAsia
Cathay Pacific
Tiger Air
Singapore Airlines
Silk Air
Jet Airways
Vietnam Airlines

From the Middle East
Emirates
Qatar Airways 
Etihad Airways

Health and Safety

How safe is Hanoi in general? expand_more

Vietnam is a relatively safe country for visitors, including solo travelers (both men and women). When you venture out of your volunteer placement or accommodation, try to stay with your group. You are responsible for the safety of your bags and cameras etc. Traffic in Hanoi is very chaotic and one should be cautious while crossing the road and walking as a pedestrian. 

What immunizations/vaccinations will I need ? expand_more

All participants are recommended to consult their physician or travel doctor before traveling to Vietnam. To view the general list of vaccinations recommended for your travel to Vietnam, click here.

Do I need to buy health insurance? expand_more

Yes, for all participants, it is mandatory to have a valid travel medical insurance for their trip. Volunteers have the option to purchase Travel and Medical Insurance at a nominal extra cost from Volunteering Solutions.  To provide the best option to our participants, we offer comprehensive insurance coverage in collaboration with a leading insurance provider. 

If you already have a valid Travel and Medical insurance, you can email us a copy of the same. It is also advised to bring along the Insurance documents during your trip.

Accommodation and Living

How do I get to the program location? expand_more

Your project coordinator will take you to your project placement and introduce you to everyone after giving you a basic orientation about the program/city/culture etc. You will be told about the directions to the project location from your accommodation and the best and the most affordable mode of transport you can use. Volunteers usually opt for public transport, as they are much affordable.

Can I know more about accommodation and food arrangements? expand_more

Volunteers in Hanoi are provided accommodation in a volunteer house/ hostel. Wireless internet is available for the volunteers and rooms are shared. Shared bathrooms are there for volunteers with running water and flush system. Air conditioning is provided during the night in the volunteer rooms. 

Convenience stores and internet cafes are also not very far from the volunteer house. The local cook at the volunteer house will prepare meals for the volunteers. Lunch and dinner usually comprise of rice, vegetables, meat, chicken dishes, tofu, and soups. Breakfast can be tea, bread, butter, jam, eggs or local Vietnamese dishes.

What if I have my own accommodation. Can I still volunteer for the project? expand_more

Unfortunately, the entire volunteering experience is as much about volunteering on your project, as it is about the cross-cultural exchange and community building. A lot of that happens through the accommodation that we have set up, where one can enjoy by being with like-minded people. Additionally, for safety reasons, all volunteers must live in the allotted accommodation.
 

Can vegetarians be accommodated? expand_more

Yes, that is not a problem at all. However do inform us beforehand about your any special dietary requirements.

Would I have free time during my program ? Can I do sightseeing during my program? expand_more

Volunteers work from Monday - Friday and have their weekends free for sightseeing. Evenings are free for the volunteers and they usually get together and go out for social gatherings, eat out or just relax at the volunteer house. Weekends are free for the volunteers and you can go for short weekend trips. There is a lot to do in Hanoi. You can start with Cu Chi Tunnels, Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater, Hon Viet - The Soul Of Vietnam, Cu Chi Wildlife Rescue Station and much more. You can also go to Mekong Delta or head out to Hanoi.

Are there more expenses once I arrive in Hanoi? expand_more

Your program fee does not cover your personal expenses. You will need to provide for yourself your personal expenses, such as bottled water, local transport, telephone, shopping, sightseeing etc. However, you should carry around $70-$80 per week for your basic personal expenses. This amount can vary and you would need a higher amount if you go on different weekend trips out of town.

For how many hours will I volunteer every day? expand_more

Depending on the project, elected volunteers will work during the week from Monday- Friday. You will have the weekend off so you can travel on weekends. However, volunteers need to be flexible, open minded and understand that work requirements can change as well on certain occasions.

Where can I change my money in Hanoi? Are there ATMs in Hanoi? expand_more

Currency exchange options are ample in Hanoi. Inside the airport terminal, there are several exchange counters that offer the official exchange rate. You can also carry smaller denominations of your currency and buy things using them. Please check the latest currency exchange rate before going to Vietnam. 

Connect with Past Volunteers

How can I connect with past Volunteering Solutions alumni as well as other former and current volunteers? expand_more

We encourage volunteers to get in touch with former Volunteering Solutions participants and also other program participants joining our projects. You are recommended to join the Volunteering Solutions Facebook Page or Facebook Group to communicate with other participants.

To read alumni interviews from past participants, visit the ‘Meet a Volunteer’ section on our website.