It was an incredible experience for me. Discovering the culture of Vietnam has been wonderful, meeting so many people and making friends from many different parts of the world. Also, treating with very nice local people and a great local team, and being able to enjoy time in kindergarden with the children was very fulfilling and I am very grateful for this amazing experience. I highly recommend.
Volunteer in Vietnam
Explore International Volunteer HQ’s fascinating Vietnam volunteer abroad program. Choose from a wide range of trusted Vietnam volunteer projects, including Teaching English, Medical, Special Needs Care, Childcare and Food Outreach. Volunteer work in Vietnam is based throughout a variety of communities in and around the city of Ho Chi Minh. With affordable Program Fees and top rated volunteer projects trusted by over 155,000 travellers, IVHQ is the best volunteer organisation in Vietnam.
Highlights:
- 5 meaningful project options available year-round
- Program Fees from AU$652 for 1 week
- Includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals, and 24/7 in-country support
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Accommodation in a volunteer dormitory in Ho Chi Minh City
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Optional Cultural Immersion Culture Week available as an add-on
Key information
Volunteer opportunities in Vietnam
Increases access to education
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from AU$652
- Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in kindergartens in Ho Chi Minh City
- Volunteers aged 16+ and families
Help with all aspects of running a childcare center, with a specific focus on assisting with English lessons for early learners.
Improves health & wellbeing
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from AU$652
- Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in soup kitchens
- Volunteers aged 16+ and families
Assist soup kitchens to serve up to 800 meals to low income workers, students, the elderly and other locals who couldn’t otherwise afford a suitable daily lunch.
Improves health & wellbeing
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from AU$971
- Duration: 2 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in a hospital
- Volunteers aged 18+
Shadow and assist local doctors and nurses in a Vietnamese hospital, helping with basic tasks and triage.
Improves health & wellbeing
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from AU$652
- Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in hospitals and clinics
- Volunteers aged 16+ and families
Support hospitals and clinics to care for those with special needs, including those affected by Agent Orange. You can assist with physical therapy, education and sensory tasks.
Increases access to education
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from AU$652
- Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in a local college
- Volunteers aged 16+ and families
Help to teach English in a local college to students aged between 16-25, enhancing their job prospects and opportunities for further study.
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
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Lucía Pascual García-Gamón
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JJ
Juan Jiménez Muñoz
During my two-week volunteer experience with the Food Outreach program in Vietnam, I gained much more than I expected. Beyond contributing to the community, I developed a deeper sense of empathy and cultural awareness. Working closely with local families taught me the importance of adaptability and humility—sometimes the most impactful actions are the simplest ones, like sharing a meal or listening to someone’s story. I also strengthened my teamwork and problem-solving skills, as every day brought new challenges that required collaboration and creativity.
For anyone hesitant about joining this program, my advice is to embrace the uncertainty and focus on the bigger picture. It’s normal to feel nervous, but the experience will push you out of your comfort zone in the best possible way. You don’t need to be perfect or have all the answers; what matters most is your willingness to learn and contribute. The connections you make and the perspective you gain will stay with you long after the program ends.
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AT
Alex Tran
The advice I would give to a person that is hesitant is that, I was also hesitant but doing this program has made me love it so much it was the best experience ever I got to go out solo and see more of the world and in this program there are so many people from different states and countries it’s awesome everyone is loving
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IO
Isabella Olsen
I gained not only a deeper understanding of the culture and community, but also valuable personal growth and lasting friendships. The support from the local team made me feel safe and welcome throughout. To anyone hesitant: take the leap! It’s an incredibly rewarding experience that will stay with you long after you return home.
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To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Popular add-ons & experiences in Vietnam
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Vietnam program.
Cu Chi Tunnel
Dive into a half-day exploration of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic historical site – the Cu Chi Tunnels, a must-see attraction.
AU$249
Top rated
Food Tour
A Vietnam Food Tour for the food lovers! Eat like a Vietnamese for a night! We will take you to the most popular street stalls and hidden alleyways in the city, showing you where the locals truly love to eat! So, save your appetite, delight your palate, and let us fill your tummy with delicious and authentic Vietnamese food!
AU$106
North Vietnam Snapshot - 7 day tour
Get ready for an epic 7-day tour through North Vietnam. You will taste mouth-watering street food in Hanoi, cruise and kayak through Ha Long Bay, and trek through stunning rice terraces in Sa Pa.
AU$1424
Cu Chi Tunnel
Dive into a half-day exploration of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic historical site – the Cu Chi Tunnels, a must-see attraction.
AU$249
Top rated
Food Tour
A Vietnam Food Tour for the food lovers! Eat like a Vietnamese for a night! We will take you to the most popular street stalls and hidden alleyways in the city, showing you where the locals truly love to eat! So, save your appetite, delight your palate, and let us fill your tummy with delicious and authentic Vietnamese food!
AU$106
North Vietnam Snapshot - 7 day tour
Get ready for an epic 7-day tour through North Vietnam. You will taste mouth-watering street food in Hanoi, cruise and kayak through Ha Long Bay, and trek through stunning rice terraces in Sa Pa.
AU$1424
Check what's required to visit Vietnam
Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important you monitor this right up until you depart for your trip.
