Guide to Hiring a Maid in Vietnam: Salaries & Tet (2026)

One of the greatest lifestyle advantages for expats moving to Vietnam is the affordability of domestic help. Hiring a maid, nanny, or full-time housekeeper is highly common and can dramatically improve your quality of life.

However, because the domestic worker industry operates largely through informal networks and word-of-mouth, many expats find themselves confused about fair market salaries, legal contracts, and the expectations surrounding the annual “Tet Bonus.”

[!WARNING] Legal Disclaimer: While hiring domestic help is straightforward, it is still governed by the 2019 Vietnam Labor Code. Failing to provide a clear, written agreement can lead to wage disputes. This guide is for informational purposes only.

1. How Much Does a Maid Cost in Vietnam? (2026 Benchmarks)

Answer-first: In 2026, a full-time, live-in domestic helper in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi costs between $300 and $550 USD per month. For part-time help, the standard hourly rate is approximately 100,000 VND ($4 to $5 USD) per hour.

Your actual costs will vary based on several key factors:

• Language Skills: Helpers who speak conversational English will command a premium, often pushing their salary toward the higher end of the spectrum ($450 - $550+).
• Specialized Duties: If you require specialized childcare (nanny duties), elderly care, or advanced cooking of Western cuisine, expect to pay more than standard cleaning rates.
• Location: Salaries in expat enclaves like Thao Dien (HCMC) or Tay Ho (Hanoi) are generally 15-20% higher than in local districts.

[!TIP] Currency Pro-Tip: Always agree upon and pay the salary in Vietnamese Dong (VND). Pegging the salary to USD can cause friction due to exchange rate fluctuations.

2. Is the “Tet Bonus” Legally Mandatory?

Answer-first: No. Despite popular belief within the expat community, paying a 13th-month salary or a “Tet Bonus” (Lunar New Year bonus) to a private domestic helper is not a statutory requirement under the 2019 Vietnam Labor Code.

However, there is a catch: It is a massive cultural expectation.

If you do not pay a Tet bonus (which is traditionally equal to one month’s salary), your helper is highly likely to quit immediately after the holiday.

Furthermore, if you formally write a Tet bonus into your employment contract, it transitions from a cultural expectation into a binding legal obligation. Once committed to in writing, the employer cannot unilaterally withdraw this benefit.

3. The Legal Requirement of a Written Contract

Answer-first: Yes, by law, employers are required to sign a written employment contract with their domestic workers.

While thousands of expats rely entirely on oral agreements—and local authorities rarely inspect private households—operating without a contract exposes you to unnecessary risks. A written contract protects both parties by clearly defining:

1. Exact working hours and guaranteed days off.
2. Specific duties (e.g., does “cleaning” include ironing and grocery shopping?).
3. The exact salary and the date it will be paid.
4. The terms of the Tet bonus, if agreed upon.
5. Notice periods for termination.

You do not need a lawyer to draft this. A simple, bilingual (English-Vietnamese) document signed by both parties is legally sufficient and prevents 99% of common disputes.

4. How to Find a Reliable Helper

Answer-first: Finding a trustworthy helper who fits your household’s dynamic is crucial. Here are the most effective channels:

Finding a trustworthy helper who fits your household’s dynamic is crucial. Here are the most effective channels:

1. Word of Mouth: This is the gold standard. Ask outgoing expats who are leaving Vietnam if their helper needs a new employer.
2. Your Landlord or Building Management: They often have a network of vetted cleaners who already work in your specific building.
3. Expat Facebook Groups: Groups like “Expats in Ho Chi Minh City” or “Hanoi Massive” are excellent resources. Helpers or their previous employers frequently post availability here.
4. Professional Agencies: Agencies charge a placement fee but often provide background checks and a “replacement guarantee” if the first helper doesn’t work out.

FAQ

Do I need to provide health insurance for my maid in Vietnam?

Under the Labor Code, if a domestic worker works a full-time schedule, the employer is responsible for contributing to their Social, Health, and Unemployment insurance. In practice, many expats and local workers agree to roll the equivalent cash value of these premiums directly into the monthly salary. For more on standard coverage, see our expat health insurance guide.

Can I hire a foreigner as a domestic helper in Vietnam?

No. Foreigners cannot obtain a work permit to work as domestic helpers or nannies in Vietnam. You must hire a Vietnamese citizen.

Should I keep a copy of my helper’s ID?

Yes. It is standard and highly recommended practice to request a photocopy of your helper’s National ID card (CCCD) for security purposes before they begin working in your home.