Various types of Vietnam SIM cards cater to different needs. This article is to offer valuable insights into choosing the optimal Vietnam SIM card. From crucial tips for making informed decisions to practical advice on the purchasing process, explore all the information necessary to ensure uninterrupted connectivity throughout your stay in Vietnam.
1. Should I get a Vietnam SIM card?
While traveling through Vietnam, leveraging the free Wi-Fi provided by your accommodation, dining establishments, or cafés is feasible. So, is it advisable to buy a new Vietnam SIM card for my upcoming trip? The answer is yes.
Connecting to free Wi-Fi becomes challenging when you are on the move or at public spaces like parks or tourist attractions in Vietnam. Even if you find a password-free Wi-Fi network in a public area, the signal strength is often unstable.
Hence, it is highly recommended to invest in a SIM card tailored for Vietnam to ensure seamless connectivity throughout the country. If necessary, please bear in mind that you don’t need to get a SIM card like a local; rather, it is advisable to opt for a Vietnam data SIM card.
2. Forms of SIM card in Vietnam
Currently, the Vietnam tourist SIM card is accessible in two variants, outlined as follows:
- Physical SIM (Mini-SIM, Micro SIM, and Nano SIM)
- eSIM profile (hereinafter referred to as eSIM)
The parallels between eSIM and physical SIM encompass their shared nature as SIMs, facilitating the connection of travelers’ phones to mobile providers’ networks in Vietnam and ensuring continuous connectivity throughout the country. Additionally, both variants serve the purpose of identifying your phone and the associated plan, and they can be utilized simultaneously in a dual-SIM phone.
To choose a suitable form of Vietnam SIM card. Let’s examine the distinctions between eSIM and physical SIM. The table below shows the differences between these two forms of SIM cards in Vietnam.
| Item | Physical sim | eSIM |
| Form | A SIM card is a chip that is inserted or removed physically within your phone, and it is associated with your carrier’s plan. | An eSIM (embedded SIM) is integrated into your phone, acquiring and downloading your carrier’s plan. |
| Where to buy | Online | Physical Store |
| Benefits | The SIM cards are detachable
They can be conveniently accessed within their designated country. They are compatible with all types of phones |
They are easily approached.
They are an economical choice. They cannot be physically damaged or lost. They are not limited. Their small size facilitates integration into various devices. |
| Drawbacks | They can be lost, physically broken
They require registration They cannot be purchased outside Vietnam. |
They do not work on older phones. |
3. Popular Vietnam prepaid SIM card data packages
In Vietnam, mobile operators commonly offer various data packages, such as 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 4GB, 12GB, 15GB. These packages cater to a diverse range of data needs, allowing users to select the most suitable option based on their preferences and usage requirements.
Typically, 3GB or 5GB of data suffices for common internet usage during short trips. Yet, for extended travel periods or increased internet usage, the 12GB data package might be more suitable. For business purposes, opting for a higher data allowance or an extended package duration may be necessary.
4. Best SIM card Vietnam for tourists & cost
Vietnam has three primary SIM card providers: Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone. Here’s a brief overview of the three main SIM card providers in Vietnam:
| Item | Viettel | Vinaphone | Mobifone |
| Coverage | Best | Great | Good |
| Speed | Fast | Fast | Fast |
| Cost | Cheap | Cheap | Cheap |
Let’s explore further details about the Vietnam SIM card by delving into the content below. This in-depth information will equip you with valuable insights to make informed decisions about selecting the most suitable mobile provider for your needs.
4.1 Viettel – best SIM card for Vietnam
Viettel stands as the predominant force in Vietnam’s mobile market, commanding approximately 40% of the total customer base on its network. This telecommunications giant is both owned and operated by the Ministry of Defense. You can further explore the information on Viettel official website.
Viettel SIM card offers many advantages that position it as the preferred choice for a diverse range of users. Highlighted below are some notable pros:
- Best coverage in Vietnam for 3G/4G/LTE services
- Best regional coverage, particularly in rural areas
- Affordably cost
Despite the numerous advantages it offers, the Viettel SIM card also has some cons that must be considered:
- Vietnam tourist SIM cards are mostly available for purchase at Vietnam’s international airports and large Viettel stores.
- These SIM cards allow calls to only 25 countries.
- It imposes a data overage charge of VND 9.76 per 50 KB.
- A Viettel Tourist SIM does not encompass SMS texting.
There are various types of Viettel SIM cards designed to cater to diverse user needs and preferences, such as regular SIM cards, prepaid brands like Tomato and Economy, tourist SIMs, and data-only SIMs (Dcom).
Let’s discover the preferred Viettel prepaid SIM card data packages for tourists in Vietnam, specifically curated for regular SIM cards:
| Activation code | Data | Validity | Guide |
| ST5KM | 1GB | By the end of the registration date at 24:00
Not auto-renew |
To activate, text the code and send it to 191
To stop auto-renewal, text HUY CODE and send it to 191, then confirm with Y To check the data, text KTTK and send it to 191 |
| ST5K | 1GB | By the end of the registration date at 24:00
Auto-renew |
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| ST10K | 2GB | By the end of the registration date at 24:00
Auto-renew |
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| ST15K | 3GB | By the end of the registration date at 24:00
Auto-renew |
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| MIMAX70 | 3GB | By the end of the month | |
| ST30K | 4GB | By the end of the 7th date at 24:00
Auto renew |
4.2 Vinaphone
Operated by the Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group, Vinaphone is the second-largest carrier in Vietnam and a local partner of Vodafone, holding a substantial 30% market share in the country. You can find more information on the official website of Vinaphone.
The Viettel SIM card presents numerous advantages, making it the favored option for a broad spectrum of users. Here are some prominent benefits:
- Good coverage in Vietnam (3G/4G/LTE)
- Good regional coverage, even in rural areas
- Affordable priced
The cons of the Vinaphone SIM card include the absence of free roaming services. However, if locating a Viettel store proves challenging, Vinaphone stands as a reasonable alternative.
Vinaphone offers various SIM card options, including regular SIM cards, Ezcom for data-only usage, and a Tourist SIM called ‘Global Connection SIM.’ Each SIM type provides distinct features and data packages, catering to different user preferences and needs.
Let’s discover the data packages for regular SIM cards to choose the most suitable data package for your journey:
| Activation code | Data | Validity | Guide |
| DATA D5 | 1GB | By the end of the registration date at 24:00 | To activate, text the code and send it to 1543
To stop auto-renewal, text HUY {D5/D2/D3/BIG70} and send it to 888 To check the data, text DATA and send it to 888 |
| DATA D2 | 2GB | By the end of the registration date at 24:00 | |
| DATA D3 | 3GB | By the end of the 3rd date at 24:00 | |
| DATA BIG70 | 4.8GB | By the end of the 7th date at 24:00 |
4.3 MobiFone
MobiFone commands approximately 20% of the market share in the country and is currently undergoing privatization. While its data speeds and coverage are commendable in urban centers and along the coast, there might be inconsistencies in connectivity in mountainous regions. You can find more information on the official website of Mobifone.
The MobiFone SIM card boasts numerous advantages, positioning it as the preferred choice for a wide range of users. Here are some notable benefits:
- Solid coverage in Vietnam for 3G services
- Competitive price
The MobiFone SIM card does have some drawbacks to consider. Firstly, the 4G/LTE network may require improvement to enhance overall performance. Additionally, users may experience inconsistent regional coverage, particularly in certain areas. Another factor to note is the absence of free-roaming services.
MobiFone presents a range of SIM card choices, encompassing regular SIM cards and tourist SIM cards. Each type of SIM card is characterized by unique features and comes with diverse data packages.
Let’s explore the SIM card data packages designed for tourists visiting Vietnam when you choose to use regular SIM cards.
| Activation code | Data | Validity | Guide |
| D5 | 1GB | By the end of the registration date at 24:00 | To activate, text the code and send it to 9084
To stop auto-renewal, text HUY {CODE} and send it to 999. To check data, text KT DATA and send it to 999 |
| HD120 | 8.8GB | For 30 days |
5. Where to buy a SIM card in Vietnam?
You have two options for purchasing a Vietnam SIM card, either through online or offline channels. The details for each option are as follows:
5.1 Buy Vietnam sim card online
Opting for an eSIM is highly recommended if you are looking to acquire a Vietnam SIM card online and possess eSIM-compatible devices. This option eliminates the need for waiting time associated with delivery or physical presence at a counter, providing a convenient solution that allows you to prepare for your trip from anywhere in the world.
The process involves ordering the eSIM online, and upon doing so, a QR Code is promptly sent to your email. The eSIM is then seamlessly installed on your device, and activation takes place immediately upon your arrival in Vietnam.
However, if you prefer a physical SIM card, we advise against making an online order. Instead, you can conveniently visit any store at the Vietnam airport or within the country to acquire a physical SIM card.
5.2 Buy Vietnam SIM card offline
The most straightforward and convenient option for obtaining a SIM card in Vietnam is at the airport upon your arrival in the country. Numerous kiosks offering SIM cards are readily available as soon as you exit the baggage claim area at any of Vietnam’s international airports.
If you find yourself without a SIM card after leaving the airport, it is advisable to head directly to one of the branch offices of the mobile operators. Fortunately, these companies have conveniently located offices in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. You need to look for an office adorned with their logo and enter.
- For Viettel offices offering SIM cards in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or other provinces/cities, refer to https://vietteltelecom.vn/cua-hang
- For Vinaphone offices providing SIM cards in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or other provinces/cities, check https://vinaphone.com.vn/ho-tro/diem-giao-dich
- For MobiFone offices offering SIM cards in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or other provinces/cities, visit https://www.mobifone.vn/ho-tro-khach-hang/vi-tri-cua-hang
We hope that this comprehensive article will serve as a valuable resource, offering you an in-depth understanding of Vietnam SIM card. From essential insights into the diverse options available to detailed tips on selecting the right one, we aim to provide a thorough guide that ensures you have a seamless experience during your stay in Vietnam.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Vietnam e-Visa processing time is usually around 3 business days until you receive the e-Visa letter. However, the schedule may vary due to factors such as high applicant volume or vacation. To avoid last-minute complications, you should therefore complete the e-visa application process approximately 1 to 2 weeks before your planned departure.
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No. You are not required to do so. You are required to complete all fields marked with a red asterisk. The other fields can be ignored. All the information we list above in the How to get an e-visa for Vietnam section is required.