AI Training Landscape in Vietnam (2026)

Vietnam's AI training market has expanded rapidly in response to government incentives and growing demand. The combination of Decree 182 (50% subsidy) and the AI Law (5-year PIT exemption) has made Vietnam an attractive location for AI skill development.

This guide catalogs available programs, providers, and strategic considerations for HR leaders and individuals.

Government Funding Overview

Decree 182: 50% Training Subsidy

Who: High-tech enterprises with MOST certification

Benefit: 50% reimbursement up to VND 100M per employee per year

Eligible AI Training:

• Machine learning fundamentals and advanced courses
• Deep learning and neural networks
• Natural language processing
• Computer vision
• AI ethics and responsible AI
• MLOps and AI infrastructure

Vietnam AI Law: 5-Year PIT Exemption

Who: Employees spending >50% time on AI development

Benefit: Zero personal income tax for 5 years (20-35% salary increase in take-home pay)

Employer Value: Major recruitment and retention advantage

Strategy: Combine Decree 182 training with AI Law exemption for total benefit of VND 450M-750M per employee over 5 years

AI Training Provider Categories

Category 1: International Online Platforms

These platforms offer globally recognized certifications and can qualify for Decree 182 through Vietnam partnerships.

Coursera Enterprise

Strengths:

• Stanford, DeepLearning.AI, and top university content
• Flexible online learning with certificates
• Vietnam partnership for Decree 182 qualification

Popular AI Programs:

• Machine Learning Specialization (Stanford/DeepLearning.AI)

  • Duration: 3 months, ~10 hours/week
  • Cost: ~VND 12M per person
  • Content: Supervised learning, neural networks, decision trees
  • Certificate: Coursera verified certificate

• Deep Learning Specialization (DeepLearning.AI)

  • Duration: 5 months, ~12 hours/week
  • Cost: ~VND 18M per person
  • Content: Neural networks, CNNs, RNNs, transformers
  • Certificate: Coursera verified certificate

• AI for Everyone (DeepLearning.AI)

  • Duration: 4 weeks, ~6 hours/week
  • Cost: ~VND 1.5M per person
  • Content: AI strategy, non-technical introduction
  • Audience: Managers, business leaders

Decree 182 Eligibility: Yes, through Coursera's Vietnam partnership with licensed institutions

Best For: Self-paced learning, foundational to advanced AI skills, recognized credentials

Udacity

Strengths:

• Project-based learning with industry mentorship
• Advanced nanodegree programs
• Career services and job placement support

Popular AI Programs:

• AI Programming with Python Nanodegree

  • Duration: 3 months, ~15 hours/week
  • Cost: ~VND 50M per person
  • Content: Python, NumPy, Pandas, PyTorch, neural networks
  • Project: Build your own image classifier

• Machine Learning Engineer Nanodegree

  • Duration: 4 months, ~20 hours/week
  • Cost: ~VND 70M per person
  • Content: Advanced ML algorithms, deployment, model optimization
  • Projects: Customer segmentation, recommendation system, capstone

• Deep Learning Nanodegree

  • Duration: 4 months, ~20 hours/week
  • Cost: ~VND 70M per person
  • Content: CNNs, RNNs, GANs, deployment
  • Projects: Image classification, speech recognition, face generation

Decree 182 Eligibility: Yes, working with Vietnam partners for MOET approval

Best For: Hands-on project experience, career switchers to AI roles, mentorship support

DataCamp

Strengths:

• Interactive coding exercises
• Focus on data science and ML
• Affordable pricing for teams

Popular AI Programs:

• Machine Learning Scientist with Python Track

  • Duration: ~80 hours total
  • Cost: ~VND 8M per person annually (full access)
  • Content: Scikit-learn, ML algorithms, model evaluation
  • 15 courses + 4 projects

• Deep Learning in Python Track

  • Duration: ~16 hours
  • Cost: Included in annual subscription
  • Content: Keras, TensorFlow, CNNs

Decree 182 Eligibility: Limited - primarily self-paced without formal certification; may need to supplement with recognized credential

Best For: Cost-effective team training, foundational skills, supplementary learning

Category 2: Cloud Provider Training

AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud offer AI/ML certification programs with strong industry recognition.

AWS Machine Learning

Strengths:

• Industry-leading cloud AI services
• Practical deployment skills
• Recognized certification valuable for job market

Programs:

• AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty

  • Preparation: ~3 months
  • Cost: ~VND 35M (training + exam)
  • Content: Data engineering, exploratory data analysis, modeling, ML implementation
  • Exam: 170 minutes, 65 questions

• Practical Data Science on the AWS Cloud Specialization (Coursera)

  • Duration: 3 months
  • Cost: ~VND 12M
  • Content: SageMaker, feature engineering, AutoML, model deployment

Decree 182 Eligibility: Yes - AWS Training is recognized globally and can qualify through partnerships

Best For: Companies using AWS infrastructure, cloud-based AI deployment, DevOps integration

Microsoft Azure AI

Strengths:

• Enterprise AI services
• Integration with Microsoft ecosystem
• Vietnam has strong Microsoft presence

Programs:

• Azure AI Engineer Associate (AI-102)

  • Preparation: ~2 months
  • Cost: ~VND 30M (training + exam)
  • Content: Computer vision, NLP, knowledge mining, conversational AI

• Azure Data Scientist Associate (DP-100)

  • Preparation: ~3 months
  • Cost: ~VND 35M (training + exam)
  • Content: Azure ML, model training, deployment, ML pipelines

Decree 182 Eligibility: Yes - Microsoft Learn is recognized and can partner for MOET approval

Best For: Microsoft-centric organizations, enterprise AI integration, strong Vietnam support

Google Cloud AI

Strengths:

• Advanced ML tools (TensorFlow, Vertex AI)
• Cutting-edge research-backed training
• Strong in computer vision and NLP

Programs:

• Professional Machine Learning Engineer

  • Preparation: ~4 months
  • Cost: ~VND 70M (training + exam)
  • Content: ML problem framing, ML development, ML solutions, ML pipeline orchestration

• TensorFlow Developer Certificate

  • Preparation: ~2 months
  • Cost: ~VND 25M (training + exam)
  • Content: Neural networks, image classification, NLP, time series

Decree 182 Eligibility: Yes - Google Cloud Training is internationally recognized

Best For: TensorFlow users, research-oriented teams, advanced ML/DL applications

Category 3: Local Vietnam Providers

Vietnam-based training institutions offer in-person instruction, local support, and easier MOET approval.

FPT Software Academy

Overview: Vietnam's largest IT training provider, part of FPT Corporation

Strengths:

• Full MOET vocational training license
• In-person and online options
• Vietnamese and English instruction
• Local industry connections

Popular AI Programs:

• AI & Machine Learning Foundation

  • Duration: 12 weeks (3 months)
  • Cost: ~VND 25M per person
  • Format: Weekend classes (Saturdays)
  • Content: Python, statistics, ML algorithms, mini-projects

• Deep Learning & Computer Vision

  • Duration: 16 weeks (4 months)
  • Cost: ~VND 40M per person
  • Format: Hybrid (online + in-person labs)
  • Content: CNNs, object detection, image segmentation, OpenCV, YOLO

• NLP & Chatbot Development

  • Duration: 12 weeks
  • Cost: ~VND 30M per person
  • Content: NLP fundamentals, transformers, BERT, GPT, chatbot deployment

Decree 182 Eligibility: Yes - fully licensed and approved

Best For: In-person training preference, Vietnamese instruction, local networking

VNG Academy

Overview: Training arm of VNG Corporation (Vietnam tech giant)

Strengths:

• Real-world projects from VNG products (Zalo, ZaloPay)
• Industry practitioners as instructors
• Focus on practical application

Popular AI Programs:

• AI Engineer Professional Program
  • Duration: 6 months part-time
  • Cost: ~VND 60M per person
  • Format: Evening classes + weekend projects
  • Content: End-to-end ML pipeline, model deployment, A/B testing, ML in production
  • Capstone: Real VNG product challenge

Decree 182 Eligibility: Yes - MOET licensed

Best For: Practical industry experience, VNG ecosystem exposure, project-based learning

VNUHCM (Vietnam National University - Ho Chi Minh City)

Overview: Top-tier university offering professional AI certificates

Strengths:

• Academic rigor and research focus
• PhD-level instructors
• University credentials

Popular AI Programs:

• Professional Certificate in Machine Learning

  • Duration: 6 months (weekends)
  • Cost: ~VND 35M per person
  • Content: Statistical learning, ML algorithms, deep learning, research methods
  • Credential: VNUHCM certificate

• Advanced AI Research Methods

  • Duration: 4 months
  • Cost: ~VND 45M per person
  • Content: Research design, paper writing, experiment design, cutting-edge techniques
  • Audience: Senior engineers, researchers

Decree 182 Eligibility: Yes - university programs automatically qualify

Best For: Research-oriented roles, advanced theoretical knowledge, academic credentials

Category 4: International Bootcamps & Intensive Programs

Short-term, intensive programs often delivered in-person in Vietnam or regionally.

General Assembly (Singapore/Vietnam)

Programs:

• Data Science Immersive
  • Duration: 12 weeks full-time or 24 weeks part-time
  • Cost: ~VND 120M per person
  • Format: In-person (Singapore) or remote live instruction
  • Content: Python, SQL, ML, deep learning, capstone project

Decree 182 Eligibility: Requires MOET approval; can be obtained through local partnerships

Best For: Career switchers, intensive upskilling, comprehensive bootcamp experience

Correlation One (AI for Business Leaders)

Programs:

• Data Science for All (DS4A)
  • Duration: 13 weeks part-time
  • Cost: Free (sponsored program)
  • Format: Online live sessions
  • Content: Data analysis, ML, business applications

Decree 182 Eligibility: No (free program, no subsidy needed)

Best For: Diverse talent pipeline, career entry to data science/AI

Specialized AI Training Tracks

Computer Vision Track

Recommended Path:

1. Fundamentals: Coursera - Deep Learning Specialization (VND 18M, 5 months)
2. Applied Skills: FPT Software Academy - Deep Learning & Computer Vision (VND 40M, 4 months)
3. Certification: TensorFlow Developer Certificate (VND 25M, 2 months)

Total Investment: VND 83M | Decree 182 Recovery: VND 41.5M (50%) | Net Cost: VND 41.5M

Natural Language Processing Track

Recommended Path:

1. Fundamentals: Coursera - Natural Language Processing Specialization (DeepLearning.AI) (VND 15M, 4 months)
2. Advanced: FPT Software Academy - NLP & Chatbot Development (VND 30M, 3 months)
3. Cloud Deployment: Azure AI Engineer Associate (VND 30M, 2 months)

Total Investment: VND 75M | Decree 182 Recovery: VND 37.5M (50%) | Net Cost: VND 37.5M

MLOps & Production AI Track

Recommended Path:

1. ML Foundation: Coursera - Machine Learning Specialization (VND 12M, 3 months)
2. Cloud Platform: AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty (VND 35M, 3 months)
3. Production Systems: Udacity - Machine Learning Engineer Nanodegree (VND 70M, 4 months)

Total Investment: VND 117M (exceeds VND 100M cap)

Strategy: Split across 2 years

• Year 1: Coursera + AWS (VND 47M) → Decree 182 recovery: VND 23.5M
• Year 2: Udacity (VND 70M) → Decree 182 recovery: VND 35M
• Total Recovery: VND 58.5M | Net Cost: VND 58.5M

AI for Managers & Leaders Track

Recommended Path:

1. AI Strategy: Coursera - AI for Everyone (DeepLearning.AI) (VND 1.5M, 1 month)
2. Business Applications: Coursera - AI in Business Specialization (VND 12M, 3 months)
3. Hands-On Understanding: FPT Software Academy - AI & ML Foundation (VND 25M, 3 months)

Total Investment: VND 38.5M | Decree 182 Recovery: VND 19.25M (50%) | Net Cost: VND 19.25M

Building an Internal AI Training Program

Step 1: Assess Current Capabilities (Month 1)

• Survey existing AI/ML knowledge across team
• Identify roles needing AI upskilling (engineers, data analysts, product managers)
• Determine AI professional targets for PIT exemption eligibility
• Set learning objectives aligned with business AI roadmap

Step 2: Design Learning Paths (Month 1-2)

Beginner Track (for non-technical staff):

• AI for Everyone (1 month)
• Basic Python for Data Analysis (2 months)
• Cost: ~VND 8M per person

Intermediate Track (for software engineers transitioning to AI):

• Machine Learning Specialization (3 months)
• Deep Learning Specialization (5 months)
• Cloud ML certification (3 months)
• Cost: ~VND 65M per person

Advanced Track (for existing ML engineers):

• Advanced specializations (NLP, CV, MLOps)
• Industry certifications (AWS, Azure, GCP)
• Research-oriented programs (VNUHCM)
• Cost: ~VND 90M per person

Step 3: Secure Funding (Month 2-3)

If High-Tech Enterprise:

• Apply for Decree 182 approval
• Plan for 50% reimbursement
• Timeline: 6-8 weeks for approval

If SME:

• Consider Decree 80 for general training
• Pursue high-tech certification if building significant AI capabilities

All Companies:

• Register AI professionals for PIT exemption
• Calculate total compensation benefit for recruitment/retention

Step 4: Launch and Execute (Month 4+)

• Enroll employees in cohorts (5-10 people for peer learning)
• Provide dedicated learning time (minimum 5 hours/week)
• Assign mentors or senior engineers for support
• Track progress with monthly check-ins
• Celebrate completions and certifications

Step 5: Measure and Optimize (Ongoing)

Success Metrics:

• Completion rates (target: >80%)
• Certifications earned
• Projects delivered using new skills
• Employee retention (AI-trained employees)
• Time to deploy AI models/features

Continuous Improvement:

• Gather participant feedback
• Adjust learning paths based on business needs
• Update provider mix (online vs. in-person)
• Expand advanced tracks for high performers

Provider Selection Checklist

When evaluating AI training providers, assess:

Decree 182 Eligibility

• Provider has MOET vocational training license OR
• Provider has established Vietnam partnership with licensed institution OR
• Provider can obtain MOET approval for specific program

Content Quality

• Curriculum covers relevant AI techniques for your industry
• Instructors have industry experience or advanced degrees
• Course includes hands-on projects and assessments
• Certification is recognized in Vietnam job market

Delivery Format

• Format suits your team (online self-paced, live online, in-person, hybrid)
• Schedule accommodates working professionals (evenings, weekends)
• Platform supports progress tracking and reporting

Cost and ROI

• Pricing fits within VND 100M Decree 182 cap (or VND 50M Decree 80 cap)
• Cost per employee aligns with skill level gained
• Certificates add value for recruitment and retention

Support and Services

• Technical support for learners
• Option for instructor Q&A or mentorship
• Career services or job placement assistance (if relevant)

Working with Pertama Partners

Pertama Partners helps companies design and fund AI training programs:

Training Strategy:

• Assess AI skill gaps and business needs
• Design multi-track learning paths (beginner, intermediate, advanced)
• Select optimal provider mix (international platforms + local providers)

Funding Optimization:

• Determine Decree 182 eligibility or guide high-tech certification
• Prepare training plans for government approval
• Maximize 50% subsidy recovery

AI Talent Program:

• Identify AI professional roles for PIT exemption
• Combine training subsidies with 5-year tax benefit
• Calculate total ROI (VND 450M-750M per AI employee over 5 years)

Provider Management:

• Negotiate corporate rates with training providers
• Ensure MOET licensing/approval for Decree 182
• Coordinate logistics for in-person and online programs

Contact Pertama to build a comprehensive AI training program for your team.