Which Hanoi banks are most practical for foreigners to open an account, get a bank card, or exchange cash?

If one Vietcombank branch will not exchange cash or is difficult to deal with, try another nearby office. BIDV was also mentioned as an alternative for cash exchange.

At one Vietcombank branch, a customer was reportedly refused a withdrawal from their account and was told that only funds transferred from abroad could be withdrawn. Confirm the withdrawal policy at the specific branch before visiting.

One report says Vietcombank opened an account without difficulty but did not issue a physical card. At BIDV, cash exchange was possible but account opening was refused, suggesting that outcomes may vary by branch and staff.