SIM Card in Vietnam

Are you planning to travel to Vietnam to see bustling streets in Hanoi, the vibrant beaches of Phu Quoc, or the misty highlands of Sapa? In addition to planning your itinerary in Vietnam and packing essentials, you should consider how you will be getting around and communicating there. To make the most out of your trip, consider swapping your current SIM for a Vietnam SIM card. This will help you avoid additional expenses and also allow you to get connected without having to search for Wi-Fi. Hailing a Grab ride, translating menus with Google Translate, or sharing photos to your social network accounts, a reliable SIM card in Vietnam ensures seamless communication.

Discover everything you need to know about getting a SIM card in Vietnam, from the best prepaid plans, eSIM alternatives, and some pro tips to help you choose the perfect SIM card in Vietnam to enhance your adventure.

Don’t let your phone’s data connection get in the way of your travel.

Why should you get a new SIM card when travelling to Vietnam

Using a local SIM card during your Vietnam tour is a great way to save money. Traveling without a local SIM card in Vietnam means relying on spotty hotel Wi-Fi or sky-high international roaming fees from your home provider. Roaming can cost $10-$30 per day, turning a dream vacation into a data nightmare. Its better to have a Vietnam SIM card than to get charged extra by your provider for using your phone abroad. Prepaid SIM cards in Vietnam can connect to local networks, meaning you get access to local rates for calls, text, and high-speed data (often unlimited in urban areas) only for $5–$10.

Benefits of a local SIM card

• Cost Savings: Avoid hefty roaming fees, and basic data plans offer 2-5GB/day for only $5-$12.
• Seamless navigation: Access to ride-hailing apps like Grab or XanhSM for safe, cheap transport, and online maps for real-time navigation
• App Integration: Access translation apps, social media (Zalo, WhatsApp), and booking platforms.
• Reliable Communication: Stay connected with family or local services, especially in emergencies.
• Work-Friendly: 5G in cities supports digital nomads or business travelers for Zoom or remote tasks.

Alternatives to buying a SIM card in Vietnam

• Roaming data: Starts from $10+/day from AT&T/Vodafone, avoid unless short layover.
• Pocket Wi-Fi: Rent from WiFi2Go ($5/day); good for groups but bulky to bring.
• Free Wi-Fi: Abundant in cafes (Highlands Coffee) but might be inconsistent and unsecure.

Available SIM cards in Vietnam

Understanding Vietnam’s mobile networks

Vietnam’s telecom scene is dominated by 3 major operators, all offering robust 4G LTE with expanding 5G rollout. Urban areas like Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) or Hanoi boast full 5G, while rural spots like the Mekong Delta rely more on 4G. Here’s a quick comparison of Vietnam’s top mobile networks:

International phones must be unlocked and support these frequency bands, most modern iPhones and Androids do. Foreigners must register SIMs with a passport under Vietnam’s regulations to combat spam, ensuring secure, traceable service.

For tourists, focus on prepaid SIM cards in Vietnam. Tourists can choose from physical or digital SIMs tailored to short stays. They are no-contract, easy to top up, and tailored for short trips. Physical nano-SIMs are standard, but eSIMs are becoming popular for dual-SIM phones. All major operators support 5G on compatible plans, with eSIMs now also available from local providers.

A vinaphone’s physical SIM.

Vietnam SIM cards types and cost

Physical SIM cards:

• Prepaid Physical SIMs: Ideal for older devices; include data, calls, and SMS bundles valid for 7–30 days.
• Tourist SIMs: Bundled packages with bonus data for social media (Facebook, Youtube), local calls and sometimes international minutes.
• Data-only vs. Voice + Data packages: Data-only for light users; voice plans add local/international phone calls.

SIM cards in Vietnam are a steal-basic ones cost 50,000-100,000 VND ($2–$4), with data packages from 100,000-300,000 VND ($4–$12) for 7–30 days. Factor in 10% VAT; no hidden activation fees from legit sellers.

Here’s a breakdown of 3 top packages for tourist (prices in VND/USD; data high-speed until cap):

eSIMs options:

Tourists in Vietnam can opt for eSIMs, which offer a modern alternative to traditional SIM cards. eSIM options can be ordered online. No swapping is needed, users can activate an eSIM remotely by scanning a QR code or through an app. It provides convenience and flexibility, especially for tourists with eSIM-compatible devices.

eSIM cards offer the same features as physical SIM cards, including data, talk time, and text messages. They are particularly modern phone users who want to keep their main number active, or for those without a SIM card slot.

Like for physical SIM cards, the big 3 also provide eSIM service in-store or via apps (for the same prices as physical SIMs). There are also international providers where you can buy and set up an eSIM even before you travel to Vietnam:

• Airalo: Vietnam plans from $4.50 (1GB/7 days) to $32 (20GB/30 days)
• Holafly: Provides Vietnamobile’s package with unlimited data and shareable hotspot from $19 (for 5 days) to $64 (for 30 days) – best for groups.
• Gigago/Saily: $10+ for 5–20GB, with strong security and speeds.
• Roamless: Pay-as-you-go unlimited for long stays, from $9/30 days.

Network coverage and performance

Vietnam’s networks shine in urban hubs but vary in rural areas. Here’s the breakdown:

• In big cities (Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang): 5G is accessible at 50–200Mbps, with full 4G backup.
• In rural area (Mekong Delta, Ha Giang): Viettel leads with 90% 4G coverage (10–20Mbps).
• 5G Status in Vietnam: Nationwide via Viettel/Vinaphone; Mobifone is more urban-focused.

Getting a SIM card in Vietnam

Where to buy a SIM card in Vietnam

At airports:

Buying a SIM card in Vietnam is easy. You can find one in kiosks in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang airports. They are often more expensive, but they are right in front of you as soon as you step off the plane. It is the best choice if you don’t have an eSIM, and the staff will guide you through registration process.

You can find SIM kiosk from different providers at the airports.

In cities:

You can find SIM Cards in official retail stores and electronics chains like The Gioi Di Dong or FPT Shop, as you will rarely be overcharged. It is possible to buy Vietnam sim cards at a street vendor. However, don’t expect the staff to know anything about the SIM, they just give you what you ask for.

Online options:

You can easily order eSIMs online within less than a minute, from platforms like Airalo or Holafly before departure. You will then receive a QR code via email, you scan it to activate your eSIM and get instant connectivity on arrival.

Some carriers in your home country, such as SIMCorner, allow you to purchase a physical SIM card online, which is a convenient option if you want to arrange everything before you arrive.

Through travel agencies:

Some hotels/tour desks in Vietnam offers physical SIM Card and Data Packages, with higher price but brings more convenience during your trip.

At Paradise Travel, we simplify your travel preparations by offering vetted Viettel or Vinaphone SIM cards, pre-registered and ready to use upon arrival. Add a SIM to your Vietnam tour packages for instant connectivity, or purchase standalone with delivery straight to your airport or your hotel. Contact us at sales@vietnamparadisetravel.com to pre-order and skip the airport lines.

We have different sims and data packages to suit your usage needs and length of stay.

How to buy and activate a SIM card

Getting a SIM card in Vietnam is straightforward for foreigners: bring your passport (original, not copy) for mandatory registration.

Step-by-step guide:

• Choose provider & plan: Visit a store; explain your stay length (e.g., “10 days, 10GB data”).
• Provide ID: Hand over passport; staff scans/registers it (takes 2-5 minutes).
• Pay: Cash (VND is preferred) or card; prices start at 100,000 VND (~$3,8) for the SIM + plan.
• Insert & activate: Power off phone, swap SIM, restart. Dial *101# or use the provider’s app for confirmation.
• Set APN: For data, go to Settings > Mobile Data > APN: e.g., “e-connect” for Viettel.

For eSIMs: First, you have to check if your phone is compatible with eSIMs. Scan QR code from email/app to start installation process; no passport needed if bought internationally.

Topping up

Packages often have specific validity periods. In case of unexpected needs during your trip, you can extend your SIM card in Vietnam easily:

• Apps: My Viettel, My VNPT or My MobiFone (English language is supported; you can browse and add data packs starting from 10,000 VND).
• Scratch cards: Buy at any kiosk; scratch and dial the serie number listed on the cards.
• International top-ups: Use Ding or Recharge.com from abroad.

You can check data usage via app, and opt for auto-renew for uninterrupted service if needed.

Tips for efficient usage of SIM card in Vietnam

Travel to Vietnam with a local SIM card enhances your experience. To make the most of it, consider these tips for efficient usage during your stay.

• Choose suitable data packages: Select data packages that align with your time and needs. Whether you prioritize data for navigation, for social network, or require a balance of data, calls, and texts, choose a plan that suits your usage.
• Manage data usage: Keep track of your data usage via providers’ apps to avoid unexpected charges. Set data limits on your device and use Wi-Fi whenever available to optimize usage.
• International communication: Prioritize messaging apps for international communication and reduce the costly international texts. Apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger use data, and the unlimited social network packages make the most of it.
• Dual SIM phone: If possible, use a dual SIM phone to easily switch between your home SIM and the local Vietnam SIM card. It will help managing personal and travel-related communications.

Local expert opinion on buying sim card in Vietnam

A SIM card in Vietnam unlocks affordable, reliable connectivity for your travel. Choose Viettel for rural reach, Vinaphone for urban speed, or an eSIM from Holafly for flexibility. With plans starting at just $3, you’ll save big compared to roaming. For the ultimate convenience, plan your Vietnam trip with Paradise Travel and add a pre-registered Viettel or Vinaphone SIM card to your package – delivered to your hotel or ready on tour start, ensuring you’re connected from the moment you land.

Visit our guide on travel to Vietnam in 2026 for more insights or email us for personalized tips. Stay connected and safe travel!