Vietnam SIM Card: Best Guide in 2025
If a Vietnam visa makes your dream Vietnam trip come true, a Vietnam SIM card ensures your trip is even more enjoyable, as it keeps you connected and avoids costly international roaming fees.
This comprehensive guide offers valuable insights into Vietnam eSIMs, the best Vietnam SIM card for tourists, their costs, where to buy them, and how to avoid scams when purchasing a Vietnam SIM card.
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Why You Need a Vietnam SIM Card
Although Vietnam has a widespread free Wi-Fi network in restaurants, hotels, and shops, getting a Vietnam SIM card is still highly recommended.
It keeps you connected when you travel to rural areas and helps you easily navigate when hailing a Grab, using Google, or sharing wonderful travel moments on social media.
It also makes it easier to book airport transfers and tours, check reviews, and contact local guides through WhatsApp. Overall, having a Vietnam SIM card ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
- Read our ultimate Vietnam travel guide for valuable insights and tips on top attractions, recommended activities, local foods, and things to avoid.
Types of Vietnam SIM Cards
There are two types of SIM cards in Vietnam: eSIM and physical SIM. Both are SIMs, but the methods for installing and activating them differ.
A physical SIM is a small, removable card that you insert into your phone. On the other hand, an eSIM, or embedded SIM, is integrated into your phone. While a physical SIM can work with all phone models, including older versions, eSIMs are only compatible with newer ones.
You can purchase a Vietnam eSIM overseas before traveling to the country. However, buying a physical SIM requires you to be in Vietnam and have a passport for registration.
So which Vietnam SIM card type should you opt for? Keep reading to find out!
Should You Buy Vietnam eSIM?
Buying a Vietnam eSIM offers many advantages, such as
- No required physical presence in Vietnam. You can purchase an eSIM in advance, and by the time you land at the Vietnam airport, turn on your phone, and right off the bat, it will be activated and ready to use.
- Quick and easy activation. You don’t need to show your passport for SIM card registration. All you need to do is go to your mobile’s settings, open the eSIM option, scan the eSIM’s QR code, let the code automatically install and activate, and you’re done.
- No risk of being scammed or overcharged. Many travelers, especially first-timers, report being sold expired SIM cards at the airport, often at the same price as new ones, or overcharged. An eSIM is priced based on data packages and the number of days you are in Vietnam. It expires after a specific number of days, preventing any unexpected fees.
The only downside is that eSIMs don’t work on old phone models, so make sure to check your phone’s version before purchasing a Vietnam eSIM.
Best eSIM for Vietnam
If you’re looking to buy an eSIM for Vietnam, I highly recommend the eSIM from Airalo.
During my 7 years working as both a local guide and tour leader, most of my travelers using Airalo’s eSIM always gave positive feedback. They all agree that it’s the best eSIM for Vietnam – the easiest, most useful, and most cost-effective option.
A local Vietnam eSIM starts at USD 4.50 while a regional eSIM covering 18 Asian countries starts at USD 5. The entire activation process takes less than 5 minutes.
Image source: Airalo website
Especially, most of my travelers who visited Cambodia after Vietnam love to use Airalo’s eSIM package. They say it’s the best eSIM for Vietnam and Cambodia due to its convenience.
Right after you arrive in Cambodia, the eSIM automatically selects Cambodia as its coverage area and swiftly switches to any available Cambodian network. This frees you from having to find local SIM cards and manually change numbers.
Looking to buy an eSIM? Click on the following links to grab these exclusive deals only for Phoebe and Besties’ readers.
Moving on to the next part, let’s have a closer look at physical SIM cards, the top network providers, the cost breakdown for packages in use, and where to buy a Vietnam SIM card for tourists.
The Best Network Providers in Vietnam
The mobile market in Vietnam is quite competitive, with four major mobile operators: Viettel, MobiFone, Vinaphone, and Vietnamobile.
Among them, Viettel is the most reliable and the leading provider, with 40% of the market share in Vietnam. It is renowned for speedy internet loading and stable connections, even in remote mountainous areas, offering the best coverage in Vietnam for 3G, 4G, and LTE.
Viettel’s 3G/4G/5G coverage map in Vietnam. Image source: nperf.com
Vinaphone is the second biggest network provider, offering the fastest 4G speeds in Vietnam. In general, it is on par with Viettel in terms of coverage and speeds, especially in urban areas, but Viettel has the edge in rural areas.
Vinaphone’s 3G/4G/5G coverage map in Vietnam. Image source: nperf.com
Similar to Vinaphone, MobiFone provides reliable service and consistent coverage in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, making it a solid choice for travelers touring urban areas only.
However, you may find their internet connection patchy or even out of reach in rural areas.
Mobifone’s 3G/4G/5G coverage map in Vietnam. Image source: nperf.com
The 4th one, Vietnamobile is the least stable among the four, with coverage outside the cities being notably poor.
Mobifone’s 3G/4G/5G coverage map in Vietnam. Image source: nperf.com
Notes from Phoebe and Besties:
- Many street vendors try to sell Vietnamobile SIM cards to tourists because they are the cheapest option. However, avoid buying them as their slow connections can be frustrating. You may have to buy a new SIM card, which will cost you more.
- I always recommend using a Viettel SIM card for a smooth and convenient trip to Vietnam. It’s reasonably priced, reliable, and offers generous data packages with the best coverage.
Viettel is the winner in terms of mobile experience. Image source: OpenSignal
How Much Does a SIM Card Cost in Vietnam?
It depends on each mobile operator, their data package, call balance, validity, and price. Below is the Vietnam SIM card cost breakdown per provider.
Viettel SIM Card for Tourists – 5G
Viettel offers numerous 5G SIM card packages. Below are 4 popular options. If you’re a digital nomad or need extra data for working while traveling, explore additional packages on the official Viettel store website.
| Package | Data | Features | Validity | Price |
| 5G160B | 20GB/month (4GB/day) | Free 10 mins/domestic call (max 1000 mins) Free 100 mins/ international call | 30 days | 160,000 VND ~ USD 6.28 |
| 5G180B | 180GB/month (6GB/day) | Free 10 mins/domestic call (max 1000 mins) Free 100 mins/ international call | 30 days | 180,000 VND ~ USD 7.06 |
| 5G230B | 240GB/month (8GB/day) | Free 20 mins/domestic call (max 1000 mins) Free 150 mins/ international call | 30 days | 230,000 VND ~ USD 9.03 |
| 5G280B | 300GB/month (10GB/day) | Free 20 mins/domestic call (max 1000 mins) Free 200 mins/ international call | 30 days | 280,000 VND ~ USD 11 |
Notes:
- To check your data traffic, text “KTTK” and send it to 191.
- A Viettel Tourist SIM excludes SMS texting.
Vinaphone Tourist SIM Card
| Package | Data | Features | Validity | Price |
| Vinaphone tourist | 1GB/day | 50 minutes of domestic calls 50 minutes of international calls 50 free SMS | 15 days | 199,000 VND ~ USD7.81 |
Notes:
- The SIM will automatically expire after 15 days.
- For international calls, dial with the syntax “1714 + 00 + calling country code + phone number” to reach a landline or mobile number.
Mobifone SIM Card for Tourists
Currently, Mobifone only provides a tourist SIM card called “Way2go Vietnam” available both as a physical SIM and eSIM at airports and their retail stores. They offer a variety of packages and the following are the most popular ones.
| Package | Data | Features | Validity | Price |
| W3G7 | 3GB/day | Data only | 7 days | 198,000 VND ~ USD 7.86 |
| ALL IN ONE | 5GB/day | Free 10 mins/domestic call (max 1000 mins) Free 100 mins/ international call Free 50 SMS | 15 days | 270,000 VND ~ USD 10.71 |
| W5G20 | 5GB/day | Data only | 20 days | 252,000 VND ~ USD 10 |
| W7G30 | 7GB/day | Data only | 30 days | 270,000 VND ~ USD 10.71 |
Notes:
- The validity period begins when the SIM is registered and activated by dialing 900.
Where to Buy SIM Cards in Vietnam
Buying a SIM card in Vietnam is easy. SIM card counters at airports, retail mobile stores, convenience stores, local shops, hotels, and travel agencies are some go-to sources for tourists. The following are the easiest options to get a SIM card.
At Airports
All international airports in Vietnam have SIM card kiosks. The staff can speak good English and help you with SIM installation and activation.
Most travelers prefer getting SIM cards right at the airport because they need the internet to book Grab or contact their local guide, etc. However, did you know that SIM card scams frequently occur at airports?
Tips to Avoid SIM Card Scams at Airports
- Some kiosks sell SIM cards from multiple network providers while others sell only their own brand’s SIM cards. Research the mobile network operators in advance and look for their official stores or kiosks at the airport.
- Beware of unofficial or pop-up SIM card stands.
- Inspect the SIM card packaging for any signs of tampering.
- After activation, test the SIM card by browsing the internet or social media to ensure it works properly. Ask for your phone number and keep the SIM card series information.
- If possible, choose to pay by card and keep the receipt for your SIM card purchase.
- If you feel anything suspicious or encounter a problem, reach out to the tourist information center or contact customer service at the airport immediately for help.
At Official Mobile Stores
This is the most reliable and highly recommended place to buy a Vietnam SIM card. Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone have official stores in all cities throughout Vietnam Use these links to quickly find their stores.
- Viettel stores: https://vietteltelecom.vn/cua-hang
- Vinaphone stores: https://vinaphone.com.vn/ho-tro/diem-giao-dich
- Mobifone stores: https://www.mobifone.vn/ho-tro-khach-hang/vi-tri-cua-hang
Make sure you bring your passport for SIM card registration.
Travel Vietnam Confidently with Phoebe and Besties!
A SIM card is essential as it provides you with a stable data connection, affordable calls, and streamlined communication during your trip to Vietnam.
Additionally, having a local friend to accompany you can enhance your experience by showing you the fascinating aspects of the country.
Let Phoebe and Besties lift the burden of travel planning off your shoulders and take care of you during your time in Vietnam. From SIM card assistance, car transfer services, to tailor-made itineraries, we ensure your trip is smooth and unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a SIM card cost in Vietnam?
It depends on each network provider, their data package, and the number of days you stay in Vietnam. On average, a Vietnam SIM card costs from 160,000 VND (~USD 6.28) to 350,000 VND (~USD 14).
Which SIM card is best in Vietnam?
Viettel SIM cards provide the best coverage, fast internet speeds, and generous free minutes for domestic and international calls at a reasonable price. On top of that, they also work well even in rural areas.
What is the best eSIM for Vietnam and Cambodia?
The Airalo eSIM is the best eSIM for Vietnam and Cambodia. It’s affordable, easy to activate, and quick to use. Most importantly, once you leave one country for another, it automatically switches to an available network in the new country. This eliminates the need to find local SIM cards and manually change numbers.
