Using UnionPay in Vietnam: how it works in Vietnam — first-hand
Short answer
Russian travelers in Vietnam can withdraw cash from VRB ATMs using Mir cards and utilize UnionPay cards for payments in restaurants and supermarkets. Alternative options include QR-code transfers via major Russian banking apps, while US dollars can be exchanged at local jewelry stores.
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.
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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.
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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.
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For payments in Vietnam, QR transactions via Russian banks (Sber, VTB, MTS) can be slow (up to 1.5 minutes for confirmation).
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.
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For RosSelkhozBank Union Pay card in Vietnam: For cash withdrawals, a RUB-denominated card is generally better (RUB card withdrawal fee: 250 RUB, CNY card withdrawal fee: min 70 CNY).
For cashless payments, expect a 3-5% commission regardless of currency. RUB-denominated cards are more universal and often free to issue, while CNY cards may cost 4500 RUB to issue.
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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.