When traveling to Vietnam or setting up services long-term, purchasing a Vietnam SIM card and registering family or mobile internet is essential for staying connected. Vietnam offers various SIM card options, including traditional physical SIM cards and modern eSIM solutions. Whether you’re after the best Vietnam SIM card to get or looking for the cheapest Vietnam SIM card, there are plenty of choices for both tourists and residents. Vietnam tourist SIM cardsare especially popular, offering convenient data and call plans for short-term visitors.
If you’re wondering where to buy a Vietnam SIM card, you can easily find them at retail shops, mobile network stores, or online. For those searching for a “SIM card near me”, there are many locations available throughout the country. We’ll help you choose the best Vietnamese SIM card based on your specific needs, whether you want the best prepaid SIM card in Vietnam or the most reliable coverage.
Stay connected hassle-free—reach out to The Nest Asia for all your SIM card and internet needs!
Types of Vietnam SIM Card
Vietnam offers two primary forms of Vietnam tourist SIM cards: Physical SIM Cards and eSIM. Here’s an overview of each:
| Feature | Physical SIM Cards | eSIM |
|---|---|---|
| Types Available | Mini-SIM, Micro-SIM, Nano-SIM | Only available as an embedded digital SIM |
| How It Works | Inserted into your phone and connects to Vietnam’s mobile network | Download the eSIM profile to your phone and activate it remotely |
| Where to Buy | Available online or in retail stores, including airports and convenience stores | Available from mobile providers, downloadable before or during travel |
| Pros | – Removable: Can switch to another phone if needed. – Works with all phones: Compatible with most devices. | – Convenience: No need for physical SIM card swaps. – No Risk of Physical Damage: No physical card to lose or damage. – Multiple Profiles: Use multiple eSIMs on dual-SIM phones. |
| Cons | – Physical Damage or Loss: Can be damaged or lost. – Required Registration: Must register with passport info. – Not Available Outside Vietnam: Nano-SIM only available in Vietnam. | – Compatibility Issues: Not all phones support eSIM. – Limited Availability for Older Devices: Does not work on older models. |
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Vietnam?
| Item | Buy Vietnam SIM Card Online | Buy Vietnam SIM Card at Physical Store |
|---|---|---|
| Where to Buy | – Online, from anywhere – Available from international telecom providers like Saily, Airalo, Nomad, GigSky | – At the airport or any mobile operator office in Vietnam – Mobile phone shops – Mobile vendors – Convenience stores like Circle K, VinMart, FPT stores |
| What You Get | – eSIM: QR Code and user instructions to install on your phone. Activated upon arrival. – Physical SIM: Can be picked up at the airport or delivered to your address in Vietnam. | A physical SIM card that can be picked up at the store. |
| What to Prepare | – Phone unlocked for international use – Physical address in Vietnam (for delivery) | – Passport (required for registration) – Money for the SIM card and data plan |
| Pros | – Avoid waiting time or queues – Purchase from anywhere – Immediate activation for eSIMs | – Quick and convenient – Immediate use (e.g., Grab, taxi) – Fixed pricing at the airport |
| Cons | – Limited to eSIM-compatible devices | – May require finding a physical store if you miss airport kiosks – Payment in local currency or credit card required |
Additional Information on Vietnam SIM Card Locations:
- Online Booking: Many telecom providers offer the option to purchase an eSIM or physical SIM card online, either through their website or through third-party e-commerce platforms. This can be a convenient option if you’d like to have your SIM card ready as soon as you arrive.
- Airport Counters: Major international airports like Hanoi’s Noi Bai and Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat have dedicated counters where you can purchase tourist SIM cards directly.
- Mobile Network Operator Stores: These are located in larger cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hoi An. They offer a variety of options specifically for tourists.
- Mobile Vendors: Street vendors in tourist areas may offer SIM cards, providing a convenient way to purchase a card near popular attractions.
- Authorized Retailers: Convenience stores like Circle K, VinMart, and FPT stores are also common spots to find tourist SIM cards.
Tips for Buying a Vietnam SIM Card
Before you buy a Vietnam SIM card, keep these tips in mind:
- Ensure Phone Compatibility: Make sure your phone is unlocked and supports the local network frequencies in Vietnam.
- Choose a Reliable Provider: Vietnam has several mobile providers like Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone. Do your research and pick one that offers good coverage in the areas you’ll be visiting.
- Register Your SIM: Registration with your passport details is mandatory in Vietnam. Make sure to complete this step when purchasing your SIM card.
- Keep Your SIM Active: Most SIM cards are valid for 30 days. To avoid losing your number, be sure to top up before the expiration date.
- Consider Data Plans: If you expect to use a lot of mobile data, opt for a data plan rather than paying per megabyte. This will help you save money in the long run.
Vietnam’s Top Mobile Networks with Great Coverage
Viettel – Best Overall
- Government-owned with extensive rural and urban coverage
- Ideal if you’re traveling outside the cities
- Offers the fastest 4G speeds in many areas
Vinaphone – Best Urban Speeds
- Strong performance in major cities like Hanoi, Danang, and Ho Chi Minh City
- Affordable SIM bundles for tourists
- Excellent speeds for streaming video calls and YouTube
Mobifone – Good City Option
- Known for great customer service and a variety of data packages
- Reliable coverage in major cities, but slightly weaker in rural areas
Affordable Vietnam SIM Card Plans for Tourists
Vietnam offers a variety of SIM card plans for tourists that come preloaded with data and are valid for 7 to 30 days. Whether you’re looking for the best prepaid SIM card in Vietnam or trying to find the cheapest SIM card in Vietnam, there are multiple options available to suit your needs.
| Provider | Data Allowance | Validity Period | Price Range (VND) | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viettel | 15GB–30GB | 7 to 30 days | 150,000–250,000 | Local calls + SMS |
| Vinaphone | 10GB–25GB | 7 to 30 days | 120,000–200,000 | Social media usage (Facebook, TikTok, etc.) |
| Mobifone | 5GB–20GB | 7 to 30 days | 100,000–180,000 | Ideal for city use |
Key Features:
- 4G LTE support for fast internet speeds
- Free access to popular social media platforms like Facebook, Zalo, and TikTok
- Hotspot and tethering capabilities for sharing your connection
- Option to add more data through top-up cards
Registering Internet (Family & Mobile) in Vietnam
Registering Family Internet
Vietnam offers multiple options for family or home internet services through broadband and fiber-optic connections. Popular providers include Viettel, VNPT, and FPT. Here’s the general process for registration:
Steps for Registering Family Internet
- Choose a Provider: Research which providers offer the best internet plans in your area (e.g., Viettel, FPT, VNPT). Consider factors such as speed, data caps, and customer support.
- Required Documents: You will typically need to show your Vietnamese ID or passport if you’re a foreigner, along with proof of residence (lease agreement or utility bills).
- Visit a Local Store: Go to the official store or authorized service centers to sign up. Some providers may allow online registration.
- Select a Plan: Choose between different types of plans such as ADSL, Fiber optic, or FTTH (Fiber To The Home). Plans generally offer speeds from 15 Mbps to 1000 Mbps, depending on the provider and your needs.
- Installation Process: After completing the registration, the provider will send a technician to your home to set up the router and complete the installation.
- Payment: Payment is generally made monthly, either through bank transfer, online payment, or directly to the provider.
Cost Estimate
- Monthly charges typically range from VND 200,000 to VND 1,000,000 (approximately US$8 to US$40) depending on the speed and type of plan.
Registering Mobile Internet
For mobile internet, most tourists or residents opt for SIM cards with data packages. Providers such as Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone offer mobile internet services.
Steps for Registering Mobile Internet
- Choose a Mobile Provider: Pick between major networks like Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobifone based on coverage in your area.
- Required Documents: Foreigners must provide their passport for registration, while locals use their Vietnamese ID.
- Buy a SIM Card: You can buy SIM cards from airports, convenience stores, or official network stores.
- Select a Data Plan: Choose a suitable mobile data plan based on your needs. Plans often range from 5GB to 30GB with validity from 7 days to 30 days.
- Register Online or In-Store: Registration can be done in-store or through the official websites of mobile carriers. Some providers may offer online registration, but the passport is usually needed in person.
- Activation: Once registered, the provider will activate the SIM card and provide you with the necessary instructions for usage.
Cost Estimate
- Mobile internet plans typically range from VND 100,000 to VND 250,000 (approximately US$4 to US$10) for 7 to 30 days of data.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vietnam offers a range of SIM card options that cater to both short-term visitors and long-term residents. Whether you’re looking for the best Vietnamese SIM card, the cheapest SIM card in Vietnam, or a Vietnam tourist SIM card, you’ll find plenty of choices to stay connected. By selecting the right plan and provider, you can ensure reliable mobile and internet services throughout your time in Vietnam. Or you can contact The Nest Asia for assistance in choosing the best plan for your needs.
About Us
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.
