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Vietnam SIM: How to Get the Best SIM Card or eSIM for Travelers
Need a SIM in Vietnam? Discover the best SIM cards and eSIMs for travelers—top providers, prices, where to buy, and quick setup tips.
Need internet in Vietnam? Getting a local SIM or eSIM is cheap, quick, and makes travel way easier—from Google Maps to Zalo taxis. Major Vietnamese operators all offer visitor-friendly packages. Here’s everything you need to know—sorted, no jargon.
The Best SIM Card Providers in Vietnam
Vietnam’s big three mobile companies cover nearly the whole country and have hassle-free tourist packages:
- Viettel: Best overall coverage, urban and rural. See tourist SIMs and eSIM plans.
- Mobifone: Fast urban data and affordable prices. Check Mobifone tourist SIM.
- Vinaphone: Strong signal in cities and on islands. Explore Vinaphone tourist plans.
Where (and How) to Buy a SIM in Vietnam
- At the Airport: Easiest—get one on arrival (Hanoi, Saigon, Da Nang). Costs a little more, but instant activation.
- Shops/Convenience Stores: Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone shops are in every city and most big towns. Bring your passport.
- Official Kiosks: Authorised resellers can be trusted—avoid third-party street hawkers to dodge fakes.
eSIM? Yes—skip the plastic! Buy online from Viettel or an eSIM marketplace before you land, download their app, scan the QR code, go.
Table: Handy Tipping Guide - Vietnam
Most tourist SIMs/eSIMs offer unlimited data (at least a high daily cap), valid for 15–30 days. Below are typical packages—prices vary with promotions and data limits.
Note: All require passport for registration. Bring your phone unlocked if you use a physical SIM.
Operator | Data (per 30 days) | Calls | Typical Price (VND/USD) | Buy Online |
Viettel | 15–30GB | Yes | 120,000–200,000 (~$5–$8) | |
Mobifone | 7–30GB | Yes | 100,000–180,000 (~$4–$7) | |
Vinaphone | 7–28GB | Yes | 100,000–180,000 (~$4–$7) |
Note: All require passport for registration. Bring your phone unlocked if you use a physical SIM.
eSIM vs. Physical SIM: Which is Better?
- eSIM: Great for newer phones. Install in minutes with a QR code—no need to swap trays. Buy from Viettel eSIM or global sellers like Airalo and Gigago.
- Physical SIM: Reliable and cheap, even if your phone doesn’t support eSIM. Just pop it in, get a shop clerk to help if needed.
FAQ: Vietnam SIM Cards and eSIMs
Q: Can tourists buy SIMs and eSIMs in Vietnam?
A: Yes, just show your passport at any official shop or airport kiosk.
Q: Which operator has the best coverage?
A: Viettel covers the most area nationwide, but Mobifone and Vinaphone are also excellent in cities and popular destinations.
Q: How long does it take to activate?
A: Usually less than 5 minutes at a shop or kiosk. eSIMs can be instant if you set up online.
Q: Can I use my Vietnam SIM in Laos or Cambodia?
A: Standard SIM data won’t roam; check with the operator for SEA roaming add-ons. If you’re short on time and sticking within Vietnam, our 10-day itinerary guide helps you maximize your stay without crossing borders.
Q: Where can I top up?
A: All major stores and many minimarts; also through banking apps if you set it up locally.
A: Yes, just show your passport at any official shop or airport kiosk.
Q: Which operator has the best coverage?
A: Viettel covers the most area nationwide, but Mobifone and Vinaphone are also excellent in cities and popular destinations.
Q: How long does it take to activate?
A: Usually less than 5 minutes at a shop or kiosk. eSIMs can be instant if you set up online.
Q: Can I use my Vietnam SIM in Laos or Cambodia?
A: Standard SIM data won’t roam; check with the operator for SEA roaming add-ons. If you’re short on time and sticking within Vietnam, our 10-day itinerary guide helps you maximize your stay without crossing borders.
Q: Where can I top up?
A: All major stores and many minimarts; also through banking apps if you set it up locally.