Foreigners admitted to Vietnamese hospitals face three questions: how much deposit, does international insurance pay directly, and can the hospital hold my passport — with clear legal boundaries.
Can hospitals demand a deposit?
Yes, for non-emergency treatment: facilities may agree deposits or advance payments in the medical service contract. But in emergencies, the Law on Medical Examination and Treatment 2023 prohibits refusing emergency care over unpaid money — treat first, bill later. Deposits must be reasonable, proportionate to expected costs, and transparently disclosed.
How does international insurance direct billing work?
Hospitals sign direct-billing agreements with international insurers: the hospital sends a guarantee request, the insurer confirms coverage, the patient advances nothing. Conditions: valid insurance card, Vietnam within the coverage territory, and the treatment type covered. Hospitals should verify the guarantee before treatment (except emergencies) to avoid “insurer refused — who pays” disputes.
Can the hospital hold my passport over unpaid bills?
No. Holding someone’s passport or ID as payment security has no legal basis and can draw administrative penalties. Hospitals collect debts through civil channels: negotiation or lawsuits under the medical service contract. For foreigners who have left, the hospital may sue in Vietnam and enforce via judicial assistance — costly, but the only lawful route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does travel insurance cover hospital bills in Vietnam?
It depends on the policy: many travel policies cover emergency medical costs abroad within limits. Patients should contact the insurer immediately upon admission for guarantee guidance.
Is charging foreigners higher prices a violation?
On-demand service prices are set by the facility but must be publicly posted and uniformly applied. Discriminatory pricing without disclosed basis violates pricing rules.
What if a foreigner has no insurance and cannot pay?
The hospital must still provide emergency care. Afterwards, the parties negotiate payment; the hospital may sue for the debt under civil law.
This article has been quality-reviewed by the FLAW AI Legal Council