Background: There are extensive studies indicating that deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism contributes to significant morbidity and mortality after acute ischaemic stroke in the West, with established guidelines for prophylaxis. The situation is less clear in Asia. Accordingly, a literature search was performed to review the available evidence. Methods: A search was performed with all published materials in PubMed, Directory of Open Access Journals and BioMed Central, using the following keywords “venous thromboembolism”, “Asia”, “stroke”, “deep venous thrombosis” and “pulmonary embolism”. Systematic and non-systematic studies, previous review articles with their related references were also reviewed. Results: Wide ranging prevalence of venous thromboembolism has been reported after acute ischaemic stroke in Asia, 1% or less in clinical studies, 4.8% to 45% with imaging studies. The prevalence is lower as compared to Caucasian populations, 1.5% to 5.6% in clinical studies, 11% to 80% with imaging studies. Conclusion: The problem of venous thromboembolism is not negligible in Asia. There is a need for future studies in Asia with larger sample sizes. Antiplatelet drugs should be routinely used as prophylaxis while compression stockings applied for those with significant limb weakness. Prophylactic anticoagulation may be considered in those with additional risk factors.