Paying via QR Codes (Russian Banks) in Vietnam: real experience from chats

'Mir' cards may face issues, while UnionPay might have better acceptance. QR code payments, particularly from Sberbank, have been reported to work in some locations, but acceptance can be selective. For example, QR codes might not work at Gold Coast mall. Withdrawal from VRB ATMs using 'Mir' cards is possible. It is advisable to confirm current card acceptance policies and have backup payment methods, such as cash or other card types, readily available.

Ensuring the Sberbank app is updated, particularly on iPhones, is recommended. For Android users, checking settings for blocks or trying alternative QR codes might resolve the issue. Some local QR codes, like those for art schools, have been reported to work successfully.

It's advisable to check with local vendors or a financial expert about which cards are most widely accepted for QR code payments. Carrying a UnionPay card or a card from a bank like RSB might offer broader acceptance, and for rubles, an exchange expert can be consulted.

Other Russian banks may not be widely accepted. Having local currency (VND) is advisable, but digital payment options are also increasingly available.

A currency conversion fee may apply, with rates around 7% reported. Acceptance can vary: while some fruit stalls and shops may accept QR payments, larger establishments like coffee chains or stores might be selective or prefer partial payment via QR code combined with cash. Ensure your banking app supports QR payments and check for associated fees.

This works at merchants displaying VietQR or VNPAY codes. The transaction automatically converts VND to RUB. Internet connection is required, and some smaller venues may not support this, so carrying cash as a backup is advised.

While some services may facilitate currency exchange by accepting Rubles via Sberbank and providing Dong in cash, it's essential to verify the legitimacy of such services and their exchange rates. Some platforms might have minimum transaction amounts for certain payment methods.

Payments may sometimes be rounded down by 1 VND, causing merchant verification issues. When using UnionPay at ATMs, note that some terminals require 6-digit PINs; if your PIN is 4 digits, try adding two zeros at the end.

ATMs operated by VRB (Vietnam-Russia Joint Venture Bank) support Russian cards (MIR) for cash withdrawals. Standard withdrawal fees for approx. 10 million VND are around 624 RUB.

Also, caution users about potential issues when paying landlords via QR code, such as unfavorable exchange rates and the lack of official receipts.

Further user feedback or official information would be required to assess its performance and benefits.

Payments from Android devices worked without issues. This suggests a potential limitation of the Sberbank payment system with iOS in Vietnam.

This is an alternative to physical cash or unsupported UnionPay cards, though availability is limited to specific merchants.

Purchases on the island typically require local currency (VND) or international credit/debit cards. It is advisable to have alternative payment methods available.