Poker in Vietnam: Live, Cashgames, Tournaments
Poker in Vietnam
Vietnam, the easternmost country on the Indochina Peninsula, is increasingly becoming a hub for poker players, both local and international. With a complex history and a unique blend of cultural influences, the poker market in Vietnam has its own distinct character. While the local Vietnamese are restricted from gambling, the recent changes in legislation have made it possible for them to enter selected casinos under certain conditions, making the poker scene in the country quite fascinating.
Legal notice: Is it legal to play poker Vietnam ?
Is Poker a Game of Skill or Chance?
Vietnam's gambling laws traditionally have not distinguished between games of skill and chance. However, the perception of poker being a strategic game involving substantial skills is gaining momentum. This perception, though not legally endorsed yet, may have potential implications for the future legal status of the game.
Poker in Public Places in Vietnam
Vietnam's regulations traditionally have prohibited locals from gambling, including playing poker in public places. However, since 2017, a three-year pilot program has been in place, allowing Vietnamese locals to gamble in selected casinos under certain conditions, such as having a monthly income of more than 10 million dong. This has allowed for the growth of poker in a few regulated environments.
Conclusion
Playing poker in Vietnam comes with legal complexities, particularly for locals. Although the law is gradually changing, it's always recommended that both local and foreign players understand and comply with the current gambling laws to avoid any legal implications.
Cashgames: Real money poker games in Vietnam
Cash games are popular among the international poker playing community visiting Vietnam. Although Vietnamese locals are restricted from gambling, recent legislative changes have enabled some locals to participate in cash games in selected casinos.
-
Natural8Cash Games- Online
- NLH
- PLO
4.9Limits$0.01/ $0.02
up to $200/$500Players5032 -
GGPokerCash Games- Online
- NLH
- PLO
4.9Limits$0.01/ $0.02
up to $300/$600Players5421 -
WPT GlobalCash Games- Online
- NLH
- PLO
4.9Limits$0.01/ $0.02
up to $30/$60Players845 -
CoinPokerCash Games- Online
- NLH
- PLO
4.8Limits$0.05/ $0.10
up to $1,000/$2,000Players718
Poker tournaments in Vietnam
Vietnam is increasingly becoming a destination for international poker tournaments. Prominent among these are the Asian Poker Tour (APT) and the World Poker Tour (WPT), which have been hosted in the country. The Pro Poker Club in Ho Chi Minh City and the Crown Poker Club in Hanoi are well-known venues for such tournaments.
Poker Clubs: The best poker rooms in Vietnam
There are several poker clubs in Vietnam catering mostly to tourists and expatriates. These clubs offer a variety of poker games and regularly host tournaments. Noteworthy clubs include the aforementioned Pro Poker Club and Crown Poker Club, known for their professional environment and high-stakes games.
Live poker in casinos near by Vietnam
Despite the restrictions for locals, Vietnam is home to a number of casinos offering live poker games, primarily catering to tourists and expatriates. Among the most popular are the Grand Ho Tram Strip Casino and the Corona Resort and Casino, where various poker games are offered. These establishments also regularly host poker tournaments, attracting international participation.
Best Poker Players from Vietnam
The following list shows you the Top 10 poker players with the highest tournament winnings from Vietnam.-
1. Tony Tran
USD 2,067,951.00 -
2. Linh Tran
USD 1,243,645.00 -
3. Tai Hoang
USD 988,219.00 -
4. Kyle Nguyen
USD 702,701.00 -
5. Huu Dung Nguyen
USD 699,507.00 -
6. Thi Xoa Nguyen
USD 692,558.00 -
7. Ngoc Khanh Le
USD 654,835.00 -
8. Duc Trung Vu
USD 645,743.00 -
9. Ngoc Anh Cao
USD 619,362.00 -
10. Nang Quang Nguyen
USD 609,177.00
Homegames: Pokern for real money in Vietnam in private locations
Due to the restrictions on locals participating in gambling, poker home games among locals are quite rare and can potentially lead to legal issues. However, expatriates and tourists may participate in private poker home games.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions about Poker in Vietnam
Is poker legal in Vietnam?
Gambling, including poker, is traditionally illegal for Vietnamese locals. However, recent changes in legislation permit locals to gamble in selected casinos under specific conditions.
Can I play cash games in Vietnam?
Cash games in Vietnam are mainly open to tourists and expatriates, with some locals allowed to participate in selected casinos.
Are there poker tournaments in Vietnam?
Yes, Vietnam hosts several international poker tournaments, including the Asian Poker Tour and the World Poker Tour.
What types of poker games are popular in Vietnam?
Texas Hold'em is the most popular poker variant in Vietnam, although Omaha and other games are also available.
Are there casinos in Vietnam where I can play poker?
Yes, several casinos in Vietnam offer poker games. Notably, the Grand Ho Tram Strip Casino and the Corona Resort and Casino.
What is the minimum age to play poker in Vietnam?
The minimum age to gamble in Vietnam, including playing poker, is 21.
Can I play online poker in Vietnam?
Online poker is technically illegal for locals in Vietnam. However, many international online poker sites accept players from Vietnam. Players should be aware of the potential legal risks and play responsibly.
Is it safe to play poker in Vietnam?
It is safe to play poker in Vietnam provided players comply with the local laws, especially concerning the restrictions on local players and the age limit.
Can Vietnamese locals play poker?
Historically, Vietnamese locals have been restricted from gambling, including playing poker. However, under a three-year pilot program since 2017, locals can gamble in selected casinos if they meet certain conditions.
How can I participate in a poker tournament in Vietnam?
International players can participate in poker tournaments in Vietnam by visiting poker clubs or casinos that host such events. It's recommended to check the schedule of these establishments or follow the Asian Poker Tour or World Poker Tour for their Vietnam events.
The best Online Poker Rooms in comparison
Online poker, as part of online gambling, is technically illegal in Vietnam for locals. Nevertheless, many international online poker sites accept players from Vietnam. Vietnamese locals participating in online poker may face legal risks, while foreign players are generally free to participate, though they should do so responsibly and in adherence with their home country's laws.