A文 Luky info portal · any country · no fluff
RU AR DE EN ES FR HI IT JA KO PT TH TR ZH

Using UnionPay Cards in Vietnam: real experience from chats

Short answer
Russian UnionPay cards are widely accepted at major retailers, restaurants, and hotels, while VRB ATMs allow cash withdrawals using 'Mir' cards. For smaller vendors and markets, carry cash in US dollars or Vietnamese Dong, as card acceptance can be inconsistent.

From real experience

Payment methods in Vietnam for Russian travelers can be inconsistent.
'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.
✓ 3 reports from chats
When making purchases via QR code in Vietnam, the effectiveness of payment cards like Alfa and Tinkoff can vary.
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.
✓ 2 reports from chats
Russian Rosselkhozbank (RSB) UnionPay cards are functional in Vietnam, primarily in major supermarkets, chain restaurants, and hotels.
Small local shops may not accept them. Using a yuan-denominated UnionPay card can be cost-effective due to the exchange rate, but users should be aware of potential 2-3% surcharges added by some merchants for card transactions.
✓ 2 reports from chats
Upon late-night arrival in Hanoi, with hotel check-in only in the morning and no airport hotels available, currency exchange options are limited.
Airport exchange rates may be higher, but were reported to be comparable to city exchange offices on May 22nd (26350 VND per USD). It's advisable to use new USD bills for better rates. UnionPay cards, particularly Ruble-denominated ones, are accepted for payments, offering favorable exchange rates. Withdrawing cash from ATMs is not recommended due to high fees and poor exchange rates.
✓ 1 report from chats
Russian tourists in Vietnam can use VRB (Vietnam-Russia Joint Venture Bank) ATMs to withdraw cash with 'Mir' cards.
For everyday payments, UnionPay cards from Russian banks (e.g., RSHB) are widely accepted in restaurants and supermarkets. Alternative payment methods include QR-code transfers via Russian banking apps (Sber, Tinkoff, MTS). US dollars (even older bills) are typically exchanged at local jewelry stores.
✓ 1 report from chats
For travel to Vietnam, it is recommended to carry new US dollar bills as they are more widely accepted and may offer a better exchange rate compared to older notes.
Some establishments may offer lower rates or refuse older bills. Card payments are possible, with UnionPay (especially a Ruble-denominated card) being a viable option to avoid double conversion.
✓ 1 report from chats
When shopping at airport stores before flying to Russia from Vietnam, both US dollars and Vietnamese Dong (VND) are accepted.
For card payments, UnionPay or RSB cards may work. Additionally, currency exchange specialists can assist with converting Russian Rubles to VND.
✓ 1 report from chats
Russian UnionPay cards (e.g., RSHB) are widely accepted in Vietnam for direct payments.
Conversion occurs via the Chinese yuan. However, cash remains necessary for local markets, street food stalls, and small fruit vendors. Always verify acceptance with shop staff before purchasing.
✓ 1 report from chats
The log does not provide information on whether UnionPay cards are accepted in Vietnam or if they can be used for ATM withdrawals, including details on potential commissions.
✓ 1 report from chats
UnionPay cards are generally accepted in Vietnam, with the exception of some street markets.
It is recommended to confirm acceptance with individual vendors.
✓ 1 report from chats

Related topics

💰 Using USD and Banknote Requirements 💱 Currency Exchange Locations and Tips 💰 Paying via QR Codes (Russian Banks) • Exchanging Russian Rubles for Dong • Regional Climate Guide • Importing Vapes and IQOS to Vietnam

Tired of googling the same thing?

Ask Luky — answers for your case, from recent reports, not generic articles.

And Luky is a live voice translator for real conversations: chat in the lobby with travellers from other countries.

PS: flirt on a date in a foreign language? No problem 😏

Open Luky