🧭 US Stock Investing from Vietnam – Decision Tool + Guide

How to buy US stocks in Vietnam

Complete guide: choose the right platform, open an account and start investing safely.

Can you buy US stocks from Vietnam?

Clarify misconceptions and prepare the essentials

Reality

  • You cannot walk into a US branch to open directly
  • You need platforms that support international users
  • Follow FX rules and KYC requirements

Possible routes

  • International Broker (real stocks/ETFs)
  • Trading App / CFD Platform (price following, no ownership)

Prepare

  • Identity documents
  • Bank account
  • Ability to transfer internationally
Goal: remove the misconception “Vietnam cannot buy US stocks”.

Choose the way to buy US stocks that fits you

Answer 3 questions to get a clear recommendation

✅ Recommendation: International Broker

• Own real shares and ETFs

• Suitable for long-term investing

• Requires international transfer

This is directional guidance. Check the comparison and risk notes before deciding.

Backup option: CFD

If conditions do not fit your primary choice, consider the backup option.

Platform comparison

Clarify differences: real ownership, cost, risk, and suitability

TypeReal stock ownershipThresholdCostRiskSuitable for
International Broker✅ YesMediumLowLowLong-term
CFD Platform❌ NoLowMediumHighShort-term/Learning
Local Vietnam Brokers❌ Not supported
CFD ≠ stock. Do not confuse ownership when choosing platforms.

Step-by-step

Two routes: International Broker (recommended) and CFD (not for long-term)

  1. Choose a suitable international broker
  2. Online registration and KYC
  3. Link bank account
  4. Transfer funds internationally
  5. Search stocks/ETFs and place orders

• Check account base currency

• Fill transfer Reference correctly

• Complete tax forms as applicable (e.g., W-8BEN)

Cost & risks of buying US stocks

Give ranges and explanations, not exact figures

Cost

  • Platform fees
  • FX spread
  • International transfer fees
  • Tax (dividend withholding)

Risks

  • FX risk
  • Platform risk
  • Market volatility
Costs vary by platform and transfer route. Assess by ranges and reasons.

Common mistakes

Build trust by increasing awareness

  • Thinking CFD = stock
  • Ignoring FX cost
  • Using unknown “buy US stocks for me” middlemen
  • Not checking platform licenses/regulation

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Can Vietnamese buy US stocks?
Yes, via international brokers or CFD platforms (no ownership).
How much money to start?
You can start small with CFD; international brokers are better for long-term plans.
Is it legal?
Follow FX regulations and KYC requirements of your platform.
Do I need to pay taxes?
Dividend withholding may apply; fill tax forms like W-8BEN when applicable.
Buy stocks or ETFs?
Depends on your goals; ETFs diversify, stocks are more selective.

Once you understand how to buy US stocks, the next step is to choose a platform aligned with your goals.

View account opening steps or compare platforms to decide.