9. How to Transfer Money from Japan to Vietnam

Three-party transfer: This involves intermediaries in both Japan and Vietnam. You send money to the contact in Japan, and their counterpart in Vietnam delivers the equivalent amount to your family, based on an agreed exchange rate. This method carries risks and is generally not recommended.

Direct bank transfer: You can transfer funds directly to your family’s bank account in Vietnam. The fee depends on the amount sent, with a minimum charge of approximately 3,000 JPY (about 514,000 VND, based on the February 2025 exchange rate of 1 JPY = 171.41 VND).

Through acquaintances or organizations: You might ask someone from your supervising organization, company, or a trusted individual traveling to Vietnam to carry the money for you. However, this method has limitations due to potential issues like confiscation or loss at the airport, or the risk of entrusting money to unreliable individuals.