Staying At A Friend’s House In Vietnam? Here’s What You Need To Know.

As of July 1, 2026, Vietnam has updated its residency notification rules. Many people have been asking what happens if you stay at a friend’s or relative’s house instead of a hotel, hostel, Airbnb, or homestay. Here’s what you need to know.
If you’re staying overnight at a friend’s or relative’s home, the stay must be reported to the residency authorities.
Here’s what you need to know:
• The host is normally responsible for making the notification. If no one from the household is present, the guest must make the notification instead.
• The notification must be submitted before 11:00 PM on the first night. If you arrive after 11:00 PM, it must be submitted before 8:00 AM the following morning.
• A single notification covers up to 30 days.
• Notifications can be made through VNeID, the National Public Service Portal, the residency authority’s website, by phone, email, or other approved digital channels. There is no need to visit a police station.
• The process is free and is designed to keep residency records accurate while supporting public services, public safety, and emergency response.
What are your thoughts on this new rule? Let me know in the comments below.