Vietnam SIM and eSIM for tourists: Everything you need to know
By Duc Anh
18/11/2024
Discover everything you need to know about Vietnam SIM cards for tourists in this comprehensive guide. From choosing between a physical SIM and eSIM to understanding data plans and coverage, this article provides essential insights to stay connected while traveling.

Unlock seamless connectivity with Vietnam Travel SIM for tourists
A Vietnam tourist SIM card is your gateway to hassle-free communication and connectivity throughout your trip. To get the most out of it, it’s important to understand the nuances of local communication. This guide provides essential tips on dialing codes, managing data usage, and maximizing available plans to enhance your Vietnam travel experience.
Why should tourists choose Vietnam SIM?
Stay connected easily
When you arrive in Vietnam, securing a local SIM card ensures reliable and affordable communication. This allows travellers to easily contact local services, navigate unfamiliar areas and stay in touch with fellow travellers or friends. In addition to calls and texts, a Vietnam SIM card provides access to mobile data, perfect for using maps, researching attractions and sharing travel moments on social media.
Cost effective communication
One of the main benefits of a Vietnam SIM card for tourists is cost-effectiveness. Local SIM cards offer more affordable rates for calls and texts compared to international roaming. By choosing a Vietnam SIM card, tourists can avoid high international roaming charges, allowing them to allocate their travel budget more effectively and enjoy more activities without worrying about communication costs.
Convenient navigation and transportation
With access to mobile data, travelers can easily use navigation apps to get directions, identify points of interest, and plan routes. This is extremely useful when exploring new cities, navigating complex streets, or finding specific destinations. Additionally, travelers can access ride-sharing apps like Grab for reliable and affordable transportation. A local SIM ensures seamless communication with drivers, allowing travelers to confirm pickup locations, receive updates, and make electronic payments.
Integrating mobile data into navigation and transportation simplifies the travel experience, helping travelers make informed decisions while on the go. This convenience increases the overall efficiency of exploring Vietnam, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying the trip rather than worrying about logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Should I buy a new SIM card for my trip to Vietnam?
Absolutely! While you can access free Wi-Fi at hotels, restaurants, and cafes, staying connected on the go can be a challenge. Public Wi-Fi in parks or tourist spots often has weak signals. To ensure seamless connectivity throughout your trip, purchasing a Vietnam SIM card is highly recommended.
- What is the best SIM card to buy in Vietnam?
Viettel is the top choice for SIM cards in Vietnam, offering the largest network and best coverage. If Viettel is not available, Vinaphone is a reliable alternative.
- Where can I buy a SIM card in Vietnam?
You can buy a Vietnam SIM card online as an eSIM or in physical stores. Airports and mobile carrier stores are the best places to buy a SIM card when you arrive.
- How much does a SIM card cost in Vietnam?
Costs vary by type and data plan. An eSIM costs between $9 and $15. A physical SIM card costs around 50,000 VND (~$2.50), with data plans costing between 150,000 – 300,000 VND (~$6.50-$15).
- Can I pick up my SIM card at Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh airport?
Yes, both airports have many kiosks selling SIM cards from many major providers, including Viettel and Vinaphone.
- When will I receive my Vietnam eSIM?
After payment, your eSIM QR code will be emailed to you within minutes. Simply scan the code to activate. Note: eSIM purchases are non-refundable.
- Can I keep my WhatsApp number?
Yes, activating a Vietnam eSIM data plan will not affect your WhatsApp number, contacts or chats.
- Do I need to enable data roaming on my device?
Yes, enable data roaming to ensure optimal coverage with your Vietnam eSIM. There will be no additional charges if your eSIM is set up properly.
- What should I do if I lose my eSIM QR code?
Contact your network provider's 24/7 customer support to request a code to be resent to your email.
- What happens if I run out of data or validity days?
When your data or usage expires, your eSIM will stop working. Get a new eSIM if you need more data.
- Can I renew or extend data on my eSIM?
Currently, you cannot extend data on a Vietnam eSIM. You will need to purchase a new eSIM if you need more data.
- Can I share data with other devices?
Yes, all our Vietnam data plans allow you to share your hotspot with other devices.
- When should I set up eSIM?
Set up your eSIM before you leave. Activate your data plan and turn on data roaming when you arrive. We recommend printing out the QR code for convenience.
- How many times can I use my eSIM card?
Your eSIM can only be activated on one device. Once deleted, it cannot be reused or scanned on another device.
- Does eSIM work well everywhere in Vietnam?
Yes, eSIM works across Vietnam, even in remote areas like Ha Long Bay, allowing you to share online experiences seamlessly.
- Can I make phone calls with Vietnam data eSIM?
You can make calls via internet apps like WhatsApp or social media platforms. Traditional calls using your main phone number may incur additional charges.
- What should I do if I cannot connect to the Internet using Vietnam eSIM?
Configure your APN settings as follows:
- iOS: Settings > General > Network > Cellular Data Network > APN: m9-itelecom
- Android 4: Menu > Settings > Wireless Controls > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names > New APN > Name: iTel > APN: m9-itelecom
- Android 2.3: Settings > Wireless & networks > Mobile network settings > Access point names > Name: iTel > APN: m9-itelecom
- Windows Phone: Mobile > Data connection > Network settings > Add APN > APN: m9-itelecom
- How many Vietnam eSIMs can I install on my phone?
You can set up multiple eSIM profiles, but only use one at a time. Switch active eSIMs in your settings.
- iPhone: Settings > Cellular Data > Choose a Plan > Turn On This Line
- Samsung phones: Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Switch eSIM profile
- Google Pixel phones: Settings > Network & Internet > SIM > Select eSIM > Turn on Use SIM
- How do I delete/remove my Vietnam eSIM?
- iPhone: Settings > Cellular / Mobile Data > Select Plan > Delete Cellular Plan
- Samsung Phones: Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Remove > Confirm
- Google Pixel phones: Settings > Network & Internet > SIM > Remove SIM > Confirm
General information
When travelling to Vietnam, staying connected is essential, whether to reassure loved ones back home or to share stunning photos with friends. Luckily, Vietnam boasts excellent connectivity, with free Wi-Fi available in most places.
Internet and Calling in Vietnam
Vietnam offers widespread mobile phone calling and internet coverage. Internet connections are available in hotels, motels and restaurants, with good 3G/4G mobile internet from carriers such as Viettel, Vinaphone and MobiFone.
Call
International calls from Vietnam can be expensive, especially to countries like the Netherlands. To stay in touch, it's best to use apps like Skype or WhatsApp, which only require an internet connection—available at hotels and restaurants.
- International access number:84
- Call Vietnam from abroad:Dial 00 – 84 – area code (without 0) – subscriber number.
Internet and Wi-Fi
Internet and Wi-Fi are widely available throughout Vietnam. About 98% of hotels and hostels offer free Wi-Fi, except in remote areas such as national parks. Many cafes and restaurants also offer Wi-Fi, although streaming speeds can vary.
Regulations
To purchase a prepaid SIM card, you will need to present your ID or passport to register. It is best to buy directly from the operator to ensure proper registration. Independent stores may sell unregistered SIMs that can be deactivated without notice. Always ensure your SIM is registered in your name to avoid disruption.
Local SIM card
Vietnam's mobile network is widespread and affordable by international standards. The country uses GSM 900/1800, which is compatible with most Asian, European and Australian countries. Local SIM cards are recommended for tourists, which offer cheap calling and data packages. Text messages cost between 500d and 2500d, and calls cost between 3000d and 6000d per minute. 3G data packages start at 50,000d for 1GB. Major providers include Mobifone and Viettel, which are known for their wide coverage.
Forms of Vietnam tourist SIM
Vietnam offers two types of tourist SIM cards:
- Physical SIM:Available in Mini, Micro and Nano sizes.
- eSIM:A digital SIM card is embedded in your phone.
eSIM vs. physical SIM
- Similarities:Both connect travelers to Vietnam's mobile network and can be used on dual-SIM phones.
- Difference:Physical SIMs can be removed and swapped between devices, while eSIMs are embedded and downloaded online, offering convenience and reducing the risk of damage.
Item
| Vietnam Travel SIM – Physical
| Vietnam Travel SIM - eSIM
|
Similarities
|
| |
Form
| A SIM card is a chip that is physically inserted or removed inside your phone according to your carrier's plan.
| eSIM (embedded sim) is built into your phone and downloads to your carrier's plan.
|
Where to buy
| Received at physical store | Online |
Advantage
|
|
|
Disadvantages
|
|
|
Buy SIM in 2024
Although SIM cards are available at convenience stores and airports, they may not be properly registered. For reliable connectivity, purchase and register your SIM at an official carrier store, especially if you plan to stay in Vietnam for an extended period of time or travel to remote areas.

Popular prepaid SIM data packages in Vietnam
Staying connected while traveling in Vietnam is easy with a variety of prepaid SIM card data plans offered by local mobile carriers. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do with each plan:
Data packages and usage:
- 1GB:
- 16.6 hours web browsing
- 92.5 hours of streaming music (24kbps)
- 1 hour Netflix (standard definition)
- 0.6 hours YouTube (1080p)
- 11 hours of social media surfing
- 5.5 hours Facetime
- 2GB:
- 33 hours of web browsing
- 185 hours of streaming music (24kbps)
- 2 hours Netflix (standard definition)
- 1.3 hours YouTube (1080p)
- 22 hours of social media surfing
- 11am Facetime
- 3GB:
- 50 hours of web browsing
- 277 hours of streaming music (24kbps)
- 3 hours Netflix (standard definition)
- 1.9 hours YouTube (1080p)
- 33 hours of social media
- 16.6 hours Facetime
- 4GB:
- 67 hours of web browsing
- 370 hours of streaming music (24kbps)
- 3 hours Netflix (standard definition)
- 2.5 hours YouTube (1080p)
- 44 hours of social media
- 22 hours Facetime
- 12GB:
- 200 hours of web browsing
- 1,111 hours of streaming music (24kbps)
- 12 hours of Netflix viewing (standard definition)
- 4.4 hours YouTube (1080p)
- 133 hours of social media
- 67 hours Facetime
- 15GB:
- 250 hours of web browsing
- 1,389 hours of streaming music (24kbps)
- 15 hours of Netflix viewing (standard definition)
- 9.6 hours YouTube (1080p)
- 167 hours of social media surfing
- 83 hours Facetime
How much data do you need?
For most travelers, a 3GB or 5GB data plan is enough for casual internet use. If you plan to stay for a month or use the internet a lot, consider a 12GB plan. Business travelers may need even more data.
Tips:Make the most of your data by using free Wi-Fi whenever possible.
Best Vietnam SIM Cards for Tourists & Costs
Vietnam offers three main SIM card providers: Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone. While Vietnamobile is another option, its coverage outside of major cities is limited, so it is not recommended.
SIM card provider overview:
- Viettel:
- Coverage: Good, especially in rural areas
- Speed: Fast
- Price: Very cheap
- Vinaphone:
- Coverage: Excellent
- Speed: Fast
- Price: Very cheap
- Mobifone:
- Coverage: Good, but uneven in rural areas
- Speed: Fast
- Price: Very cheap
Introduction:
For the best coverage and speed, especially in rural areas, Viettel and Vinaphone are top choices for travelers.

Viettel: Your top choice for connectivity in Vietnam
Viettel, owned by the Ministry of National Defense, is the leading mobile network operator in Vietnam, with approximately 40% market share. Known for its exceptional coverage, especially in remote areas, Viettel is a top choice for travelers who want to explore rural Vietnam. With the rollout of 4G/LTE in major cities in early 2017, Viettel continues to expand its network nationwide.
Availability
Viettel SIM cards are easily available at airports and many retailers throughout the city. Refillable cards are widely available in small shops and on the sidewalks. Even if there is a language barrier, store staff are usually happy to help you top up your account. For the best service, go to a Viettel store in a larger city, where staff may speak some English and offer services such as cutting SIM cards to nano size. SIM cards typically cost between 50,000 and 60,000 VND, depending on the amount of credit.
To check your credit, dial *101# for main account and *102# for bonus account. To deposit, enter100<coupon PIN>#. Look for the Viettel logo to buy credits in town. Note that Viettel often sends promotional messages.
For customer service, call 191 and switch to English by pressing 3, then 2.
4G/LTE
To access 4G/LTE, please purchase a new 4G SIM card. Old 3G SIM cards can be exchanged for free at Viettel stores until June 2017.
Data Package
Viettel offers competitive data speeds, with 3G at 21.2/5.76 Mbps and 4G/LTE slightly faster. Activate data by texting "3G" to 161. The default out-of-bundle rate is VND75,000 for 50 KB.
Viettel's regular SIM Data packages:
- 1GB:5,000 VND (~0.22 USD), Activation: ST5KM, unlimited at 128 kbps speed, valid until 24:00 on registration date, not automatically renewed.
- 2GB:10,000 VND (~0.45 USD), Activation: ST10K, unlimited at 128 kbps, auto-renew.
- 3GB:15,000 VND (~0.7 USD), Activation: ST10K, unlimited at 128 kbps, auto-renew.
- 3GB:70,000 VND (~US$3.2), Activation: MIMAX70, unlimited at 3 Mbps speed, valid until the end of the month.
- 4GB:30,000 VND (~1.4 USD), Activation: ST30K, unlimited at 256 kbps, auto-renewal.
To activate, send the code via SMS to 191. Packages automatically renew every 30 days if you have enough credit. To get more data, activate daily high-speed packages: 150 MB for VND 8,000 (MT1), 20 MB for VND 2,000 (MT2), 100 MB for VND 4,000 (MT3). Check your data balance by texting "KTTK" to 191.
Viettel's travel SIM packages:
- 1GB:20 minutes domestic calls, 10 minutes international calls, 5 days, 100,000 VND (~4.5 USD)
- 2GB:40 minutes domestic calls, 20 minutes international calls, 10 days, 200,000 VND (~9 USD)
- 3GB:60 minutes domestic calls, 30 minutes international calls, 15 days, 300,000 VND (~13 USD)
- 5GB:100 minutes domestic calls, 50 minutes international calls, 25 days, 500,000 VND (~22 USD)
International calls are limited to 25 countries. Overage data charges are VND 9.76 for 50 KB. Check account balance with *101# and remaining data with *102#.
Note:
Viettel travel SIM cards are mainly available at international airports and major Viettel stores. They do not include SMS messages.
Vinaphone: Your reliable connection across Vietnam
Vinaphone, the second largest mobile network operator in Vietnam, with a 30% market share, offers excellent coverage and speeds nationwide. Since launching 4G/LTE on Phu Quoc Island in 2016, Vinaphone has expanded its high-speed network nationwide, becoming the top choice for travelers.
Why choose Vinaphone?
- Wide coverage:Enjoy seamless connectivity with excellent 3G/4G/LTE coverage, even in rural areas.
- Affordable:Vinaphone offers affordable data packages, perfect for travelers exploring Vietnam.
Availability
Vinaphone SIM cards are widely sold at stores and street stalls bearing the company's logo. For around 50,000 VND (~US$2.50), you can top up from 5,000 VND to 500,000 VND, extending the SIM card's validity from 1 to 215 days. To top up, enter100<PIN code>#. Check your credit status with *101# and validity with *102#.
Where to buy
Travel SIM cards are available at Vietnam's international airports and major Vinaphone stores. For convenience, you can also buy Vinaphone's prepaid eSIM data plans online, avoiding the need to go to a store or wait for delivery.
Vinaphone prepaid SIM Data packages for tourists:
Regular SIM card:
- 1GB:5,000 VND (~0.22 USD), Activation: DATA D5, Overuse: 75 VND/MB
- 2GB:10,000 VND (~0.45 USD), Activation: DATA D2, Over usage: 75 VND/MB
- 3GB:15,000 VND (~US $0.7), Activation: DATA D3, Overuse: 75 VND/MB
- 4.8 GB:30,000 VND (~1.4 USD), Activation: DATA BIG70, Overuse: 75 VND/MB
Travel SIM card:
Vinaphone's "Global Connection SIM" was launched in 2017, providing 8GB of data, 80 minutes of calls, 80 SMS messages and 50 minutes of international calls to select countries for VND300,000. Valid for 30 days, it is available at VinaPhone international stores in Hanoi and downtown Hanoi.
- Unlimited Data:7 days, 200,000 VND (~9 USD)
- Unlimited Data:15 days, 250,000 VND (~11 USD)
- Unlimited Data:30 days, 300,000 VND (~US $13)
Note: "Unlimited" means 1GB per day at high speed, then drops to 3G speed.
Data Package
Activate data by texting "GPRS ON" to 888. Default data rate outside the package is 1.5đ/KB. Daily packages include:
- 1.2 GB:VND 7,000, Activation: D7
- 2GB:10,000 VND, Activation: D2
Weekly Package:
- 1GB:20,000 VND, Over usage: 0.5 VND/KB
Monthly Package:
- 50MB:VND 10,000, Activation: M10
- 150MB:25,000 VND, Activation: M25
- 500MB:50,000 VND, Activation: M50
- 1.5 GB:VND 120,000, Activation: M120
Soft-limited packages (speed is limited after over-usage):
- 600MB:70,000 VND, Activation: MAX
- 1.2 GB:100,000 VND, Activation: MAX100
- 3GB:200,000 VND, Activation: MAX200
Large package (cut down, need to add extras):
- 1.6 GB:70,000 VND, Activation: BIG70
- 2.5 GB:VND 100,000, Activation: BIG100
- 5.5 GB:200,000 VND, Activation: BIG200
- 10GB:300,000 VND, Activation: BIG300
To activate, text "DK"<measurement><activation code> to 888. All packages auto-renew. To cancel, text "Huy"<space><activation code> to 888. Check your data balance by texting "data" to 888. All texts to 888 are free.
MobiFone: Your seamless gateway in Vietnam
MobiFone, the third largest mobile service provider in Vietnam, holds an 18% market share and is currently in the process of being privatized. While it offers good speeds and coverage in urban and coastal areas, coverage can be patchy in mountainous areas. Since 2016, MobiFone users have been able to roam on the VinaPhone network, improving connectivity across the country. MobiFone has launched 4G services in Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City on the 1800 and 2600 MHz bands.
Why choose MobiFone?
- Reliable coverage:Enjoy good 3G coverage across Vietnam.
- Affordable Packages:MobiFone offers data packages at reasonable prices.
- 4G/LTE network expansion:During the development process, MobiFone's 4G/LTE network is increasingly expanding.
Availability
MobiFone SIM cards are widely sold at shops and street stalls with the MobiFone logo, priced at 50,000 VND. There are various starter packages, such as MobiCard. To buy a 4G SIM card, go to official MobiFone stores in Hanoi, Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City with your passport. Top-up vouchers range from 5,000 VND to 500,000 VND, extending the SIM's validity from 1 to 215 days. Check your credit balance by dialing *101#.
MobiFone prepaid SIM Data packages:
Regular SIM card:
- 1GB:5,000 VND (~0.22 USD), Activation: D5, Overage: 75 VND/MB
- 8.8 GB:30,000 VND (~1.4 USD), Activation: HD120, Overage: 75 VND/MB
Data Package:
Activate data by texting "DATA ON" to 999. Default 3G speed is up to 7.2 Mbps, with data rates of 75đ for 50KB outside the package.
Daily Package:
- 150MB:8,000 VND, Activation: D1 (no automatic renewal)
Monthly Package:
- 50MB:VND 10,000, Activation: M10
- 150MB:25,000 VND, Activation: M25
- 450MB:50,000 VND, Activation: M50
Soft Pack (Reduce speed after overuse):
- 600MB:70,000 VND, Activation: MIU
- 1.5 GB:VND 120,000, Activation: M120
- 3GB:200,000 VND, Activation: BMIU
New Plan (Data Termination after Overuse):
- 1.6 GB:70,000 VND, Activation: M70
- 2.1 GB:VND 90,000, Activation: M90
- 3GB:VND 120,000, Activation: M120
- 5.5 GB:200,000 VND, Activation: M200
Data Augmentation Tools:
- 350MB:VND 15,000, Activation: MAX15
- 600MB:25,000 VND, Activation: MAX25
- 1GB:35,000 VND, Activation: MAX35
Long term package:
- 1.8GB/month for 3 months:210,000 VND, Activation: 3M70
- 2GB/month for 6 months:420,000 VND, Activation: 6M70
- 2.2GB/month for 12 months:840,000 VND, Activation: 12M70
- 4GB/month for 12 months:VND 1,440,000, Activation: 12M120
- 7GB/month for 12 months:2,400,000 VND, Activation: 12M200
To order, text "DK"<space><activation code> to 999. All packages are automatically renewed. Check data balance by texting "KT DATA" to 999. Each text to 999 costs 200 VND.
Travel SIM: "Happy Traveler"
MobiFone's "Happy Tourist" SIM costs 250,000 VND and offers 2 packages:
Data only package:
- 3GB for 30 days:200,000 VND
- 5GB for 30 days:300,000 VND
- 8GB for 30 days:500,000 VND
Call and data packages:
- 1.5GB + 80,000 VND for domestic calls within 30 days:200,000 VND
- 3GB + 100,000 VND for domestic calls within 30 days:300,000 VND
- 5GB + 200,000 VND for domestic calls within 30 days:500,000 VND
MobiFone Travel SIM Card:
- 6GB + 60 minutes of local calls + 100 local SMS messages + 30 minutes of international calls:30 days, 250,000 VND (~11 USD)
- 10GB:30 days, 200,000 VND (~9 USD)
- 10GB + 15 minutes free calls to Korea:30 days, $10
MobiFone's travel SIM cards offer a convenient solution to stay in touch while exploring Vietnam, with options to suit your data and calling needs.
How to use a Vietnamese SIM card and where to buy one
How to use Vietnam SIM card
If you choose eSIM, you will receive instructions on how to set up and use it. For a physical SIM card, just ask the salesperson to insert it into your phone and help you choose a 4G plan. If you need a Nano-SIM, they can resize it for you. No activation code is required and your SIM card is ready to use right away.
Where to buy Vietnam travel SIM card
You have two options to buy a Vietnam travel SIM card:
- Buy online:
- Buy Vietnam SIM card online from anywhere in the world.
- Receive eSIM QR code and user manual via email or arrange to pick up a physical SIM card at the airport or have it delivered to your address in Vietnam.
- Buy at Physical Store:
- Buy SIM card at store in Vietnam.
- Get a physical SIM card directly from the store.
Necessary preparation:
- Buy online:
- Debit/credit card for payment.
- Actual delivery address in Vietnam if required.
- Buy in store:
- Money to buy SIM card.
- Passport to register SIM card.
- An unlocked phone for use abroad.
Buy Vietnam SIM card online
For those with an eSIM compatible device, purchasing an eSIM online is highly recommended. It eliminates the wait time for delivery and the need to go to the counter. Order your eSIM from anywhere and it will be installed on your phone via a QR code sent to your email. Activation will take place as soon as you land in Vietnam.
Buy SIM card in Vietnam
There are a number of places to buy a tourist SIM card in Vietnam, including airport kiosks, tour operators, local shops, and some hotels. However, it is best to buy your SIM card at the airport or from an official mobile network provider store.
Buy Vietnam phone SIM at the Airport
The airport is the most convenient place to buy a SIM card upon arrival. You will find many kiosks selling SIM cards right after baggage claim. Advantages include:
- Registration and activation is quick and efficient as they regularly handle travel SIM cards.
- Access ride-hailing apps like Grab for easy travel from the airport.
SIM card prices are set by mobile carriers, so the cost will be consistent across kiosks. Expect to pay between VND150,000-350,000 ($6.50-$15) depending on your length of stay and data needs. Most kiosks accept credit cards, so you don’t need to go to an ATM first.
Buy Vietnamese phone SIM at Mobile Switchboards
If you leave the airport without a SIM card, go to a branch of your mobile carrier. These are located in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Look for their logo and enter the office. Remember to bring your passport to register.
- Viettel Office: Viettel Store
- Vinaphone Office: Find Vinaphone store
- MobiFone Office: MobiFone Store Locator
Note:Avoid buying SIM cards from tour operators, street vendors or local shops to avoid high prices and registration issues.
eSIM Vietnam: Unlock Internet Freedom for Your Journey
Traveling to Vietnam and need seamless connectivity? Choose a Vietnam eSIM Card with a prepaid data plan. This modern solution offers many benefits:
- No hassle with Wi-Fi:Never worry about asking for the Wi-Fi password at every stop again.
- Skip the queue:Activate your eSIM data plan via email and start using it immediately.
- Connect instantly:Get QR activation code directly to your email for instant access.
Before purchasing, make sure your device is eSIM compatible.
What is eSIM and why should you choose eSIM when traveling?
eSIM, or Embedded Subscriber Identity Module, is a digital SIM embedded in your phone. Unlike a traditional SIM card, you can't physically handle it. Instead, you download an eSIM profile to join a cellular network. You can store multiple profiles, but only one can be active at a time.
Advantages of data eSIM:
- Keep your original SIM:Use your regular SIM for calls while the eSIM handles data.
- No physical store visit:Receive QR code via email after payment, no passport required.
- Activate immediately:Get connected as soon as you arrive in Vietnam.
- Cost effective:Save on international roaming charges with competitive eSIM prices.
- Network Flexibility:Automatically switch to the strongest local network.
- WhatsApp Compatibility:Continue using WhatsApp for calling and messaging.
Considerations:
- Do not share data:Typically, data eSIMs do not support tethering/hotspot.
- Device Compatibility:Make sure your phone is eSIM compatible and unlocked.
- No local phone number:Data eSIMs typically don't include local phone numbers, but you can use apps like WhatsApp, Viber, or Skype to make calls.
Is eSIM available in Vietnam?
Yes, major carriers such as Viettel, Vinaphone, MobiFone and Vietnamobile offer eSIM. Vietnam-visa offers competitive eSIM plans, including options with Vietnamese phone numbers.
Compatible devices:
Many modern smartphones, tablets, and laptops support eSIM. If your device is listed below and is unlocked, you're good to go!
Apple devices:iPhone XR, XS, series 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, iPad Pro, Air, Mini
Samsung devices:Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, Note 20, Fold, Z Fold, Watch
Google Phone:Pixel 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 series
Huawei Phones:P40, P50, Mate40
Other devices:Motorola Razr, Oppo Find X3, Microsoft Surface, Lenovo Yoga
Use Vietnam eSIM for your trip:
Set up your eSIM profile before departure and activate it upon arrival in Vietnam. Follow these steps:
For iPhone:
- eSIM Settings:
- Go to Settings > Cellular Data
- Click Add Mobile Plan
- Scan QR code
- Add data plan and label your eSIM
- Activate eSIM:
- Enable "Enable This Line" for your Vietnam eSIM
- Enable Data Roaming
- Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Select your Vietnam eSIM
- Turn Airplane Mode on and off, then turn on Cellular Data
For Android devices:
- eSIM Settings:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet
- Tap + next to Mobile Networks
- Scan QR code
- Add data package
- Activate eSIM:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > your eSIM and turn it on
- Turn Airplane Mode on and off, then turn on Cellular Data
Note: Steps may vary by model and carrier. For assistance, contact customer support.
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