As digital payments continue to transform how people manage their finances, e-wallets in Vietnam have become essential tools for both locals and visitors. The Vietnam payment market is rapidly shifting towards cashless transactions, making it easier to pay for goods and services with just a tap on your smartphone. If you’re shopping in Hanoi, enjoying street food in Ho Chi Minh City, or booking transport in Danang, using popular e-wallets in Vietnamlike Momo, ViettelPay, ZaloPay, and VNPay offers a seamless, secure, and efficient payment experience.
For expats, understanding how to use these e-wallets can simplify your time in Vietnam, allowing you to navigate the country’s vibrant culture and financial landscape without the need for cash. This guide will delve into the workings of these popular mobile wallets, their features, and why they’re a great choice for anyone visiting or living in Vietnam.
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What is E-wallet in Vietnam?
E-wallets in Vietnam are digital platforms that allow users to store money on their smartphones and use it for various transactions. With the rapid growth of mobile payment in Vietnam, these e-wallets have become essential tools for making payments, transferring funds, and paying bills—all from the convenience of a phone. As part of the expanding Vietnam payment market, Momo e-wallet Vietnam, ViettelPay, ZaloPay, and VNPay are among the top providers, offering seamless services for both locals and tourists. These e-wallets have a strong presence across restaurants, shops, transportation services, and online marketplaces.
Why Use Mobile Payment in Vietnam with E-wallets?
Convenience of Cashless Payments in Vietnam
One of the major benefits of using mobile wallets in Vietnam is the convenience they offer. Both tourists and locals can make payments instantly with just a few taps on their smartphones. Forget about carrying cash or searching for ATMs—e-wallets in Vietnam like Momo, ZaloPay, and VNPay are widely accepted across the country. Whether you’re at a local market, shopping mall, or enjoying a coffee at a cafe, these e-wallet payment processes make transactions quick and easy.
Security and Fraud Protection
Another key advantage of mobile payments in Vietnam is the enhanced security they provide. With advanced encryption technology, e-wallets in Vietnam ensure your personal and financial data are protected. Transactions are authenticated using PIN codes, fingerprints, or facial recognition, making them safer than carrying cash or using credit cards. Most e-wallet services, including Momo e-wallet Vietnam, also offer fraud protection, ensuring any issues with transactions are promptly resolved.
Increasing Use of Digital Payments
In recent years, Vietnam digital payments have gained massive traction, with more businesses accepting mobile payments. From small street vendors to large retail chains, the use of mobile payments in Vietnam has become widespread, making it convenient for both tourists and locals. The rise of e-wallet payment gateways like Momo, ViettelPay, ZaloPay, and VNPay has simplified the payment experience, allowing for seamless transactions wherever you go.
Vietnam Payment Market Overview
According to Decision Lab, E-wallets are becoming a popular payment method in Vietnam, with 59% of consumers using them for online shopping. The convenience and attractive promotions (65%) are key reasons why users prefer e-wallets to save costs. Additionally, 61% of consumers use e-wallets to pay daily bills, highlighting their practicality and efficiency in everyday transactions.
The frequency of e-wallet use is also high, with two-thirds of customers using e-wallets weekly, and 30% using them daily. Notably, 57% of customers plan to use e-wallets even more in the next six months, demonstrating growing trust and the strong potential for e-wallets in Vietnam’s payment market.
Top E-wallet Providers in Vietnam
The Vietnam payment market is expanding rapidly with numerous e-wallet providers, but only a few have gained widespread popularity among users. According to a 2020 report by Q&Me, the most recognized e-wallets in Vietnaminclude MoMo, ViettelPay, VNPay, and ZaloPay. These platforms are increasingly becoming the go-to options for mobile payments, offering users convenience, security, and a variety of features for everyday transactions.

1. MoMo E-Wallet Vietnam
MoMo, operated by M_Service, is Vietnam’s leading e-wallet with over 20 million users. It partners with more than 25 banks, allowing users to transfer funds seamlessly. With features like bill payments, online ticketing, and food delivery services, MoMo has become a dominant player in mobile payment in Vietnam. MoMo users also benefit from the highest international security standards (PCI DSS Level 1) and advanced authentication technologies, ensuring secure transactions.
2. ViettelPay
ViettelPay offers an array of services, including money transfers, bill payments, and top-ups. It allows users to send money via phone numbers, account numbers, card numbers, or cash transfer. Unique to ViettelPay, users can create virtual credit cards for easy payments. Additionally, the platform supports e-wallet payment gateways for savings accounts and offers attractive incentives such as flight and hotel bookings. This flexibility makes ViettelPay one of the most convenient mobile wallets in Vietnam.
3. VNPay
VNPay is another major player in the Vietnam payment market, providing users with a secure and convenient way to make payments using their mobile devices. With VNPay, users can make payments via QR codes, transfer money between bank accounts, pay bills, and even top-up mobile phones. The service is widely accepted at a variety of locations, from retail shops to restaurants, and integrates with many online services. VNPay is also known for its easy-to-use interface and high level of security, making it a reliable choice for mobile payments in Vietnam.
4. ZaloPay
ZaloPay, backed by VNG Group, is deeply integrated into Vietnam’s digital payment ecosystem through the country’s largest messaging app, Zalo. With over 70 million users, ZaloPay allows quick money transfers, QR code payments, and bill settlements. It has a strong partnership with Tiki, Lazada, and Sendo, providing exclusive discounts and promotions for users making payments through the app. ZaloPay’s growing presence in the e-commerce space makes it one of the most efficient e-wallet payment gateways in Vietnam.
Set Up and Understand E-wallet Payment Process
Step 1: Download the App and Register
To start using mobile payments in Vietnam, the first step is to download an e-wallet app such as Momo, ViettelPay, ZaloPay, or VNPay from your phone’s app store. After downloading, register by providing your phone number and necessary details. Some apps may require you to link a bank account or credit card to complete the registration.
Step 2: Top Up Your Wallet
Once registered, you’ll need to top up your wallet to begin making Vietnam digital payments. Most apps allow you to transfer funds directly from your bank account, while others enable cash deposits at partnered stores or banks. After funding your wallet, you’re ready to start paying for goods and services.
Step 3: Making Payments
When your wallet is set up and funded, making payments is simple. Open the app, scan the merchant’s QR code, or manually enter the payment amount. You’ll then confirm the transaction using a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition, depending on your app’s security settings.
Step 4: Tracking Your Spending
Many mobile payment apps in Vietnam offer features to track your spending. You can review past transactions, check your balance, and set up budgets to manage your expenses. This is especially useful for tourists who wish to monitor their spending in local currency.
Tips for Tourists Using E-wallet Payment Gateway in Vietnam
- Ensure Your Phone is Charged: Make sure your phone is fully charged before heading out to avoid interruptions while using mobile payments in Vietnam. Consider carrying a portable charger as backup.
- Check for Compatibility: Not all merchants in Vietnam accept every mobile wallet or payment method. Check ahead to ensure your e-wallet is compatible with the locations you plan to visit. Larger cities generally offer more options, while smaller towns may have limited payment methods.
- Stay Aware of Local Scams: Be cautious of potential scams. Only scan QR codes from trusted sources and verify that the merchant is legitimate before completing any transactions. If in doubt, consider paying with cash or a well-known payment provider.
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The Nest Asia is a one-stop resource offering comprehensive information, practical relocation advice, cultural insights, valuable connections, and trusted services to help expatriates living in Vietnam navigate the transition, overcome challenges, and build a fulfilling life abroad. Starting your journey in a new country can often feel overwhelming. The Nest Asia is your trusted partner – we’re here to simplify that process and ultimately make Vietnam feel like home for you and your loved ones.
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Disclaimer: The Nest Asia is not an authorized provider of official government or non-government services. The information provided is intended for general guidance only. While we strive to offer accurate and timely information, we make no representations or warranties regarding its completeness or accuracy.