All you need to know about Vietnam eSIM, why you need it for your Vietnam trip, and how to use it efficiently and smartly, and how to choose the best for you!

Are you going on a holiday or traveling on a business trip to Vietnam? To keep you connected in every corner of Vietnam, from Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ha Giang, to Ho Chi Minh, Mekong, etc., a Vietnam tourist SIM card or even better a tourist eSIM card with a prepaid data plan gives you the best hand. Here are our Vietnam eSIM data plans.

It’s likely that regular travelers are getting themselves familiar with the term eSIM. But we are sure that many of you are not. As such, we will show you all information about eSIM in general and Vietnam eSIM in particular in a single post, so that your decision-making will be made easier.

The post will let you know:

  • What is eSIM? What eSIM for your travel abroad?
  • Is eSIM available in Vietnam?
  • Vietnam eSIM types and features
  • Best Vietnam eSIM mobile networks operators in Vietnam
  • Best Vietnam eSIM data plans and providers
  • Vietnam eSIM compatible devices
  • How Vietnam eSIM works,
  • How to get an eSIM card for Vietnam, and
  • Vietnam eSIM FAQs.

1. What is eSIM? Why eSIM for your travel abroad?

eSIM is a new technology that’s changing the way we connect, travel, and do business.

eSIM stands for Embedded Subscriber Identity Module, not “Electronic”. It is the virtual SIM or digital version of the classic SIM. It works thanks to a microchip built into your device and allows you to install several eSIM profiles of the same or different mobile operators. Those profiles are equivalent to physical SIM Cards.

As judgment by many people, eSIM card is the future of telephony and will replace the old plastic SIM cards, thanks to its typical advantages (among many others) as follows:

  • It saves your phone space. As proven, the eSIM occupies 60 times less volume than the nano SIM.
eSIM size - Gigago
eSIM size
  • It’s easy to switch networks: Instead of needing to order a new SIM, waiting for it to arrive, then inserting it into your phone, you can switch to a different network with a phone call or online.
  • Allows you to have more than one SIM profile. eSIMs also offer the same advantages as dual-SIM phones with two slots for traditional plastic SIMs, the most obvious being that you can have two phone numbers on one device.

>> Through the above analysis, we’re sure that you understand about eSIM, its difference from the classic SIM, and to activate the eSIM, you must have at least one eSIM profile installed (through a QR code) on your phone.

eSIM technology is the thing we cannot touch in your phone, but eSIM profiles. To make it short and easy for you to read and follow, the eSIM profiles are hereinafter referred to as eSIMs.

Why eSIM for your travel abroad?

eSIM is the thing you can shop for online before departure and get connected instantly upon your landing in your destination, as such, it helps you avoid 3 major disadvantages of buying a physical SIM card as follows:

  • You have to find a physical store while you are in your destination for a physical SIM card.
  • Buying a physical travel SIM card can be time-consuming and difficult due to language and technical issues, and you may be messed around with swapping little pieces of plastic in and out of your phone;
  • Since you often can’t get hold of one until you’re physically in a country, you can also find yourself disconnected during those vital first few hours after arrival unless there’s a store at the airport or station.

Wouldn’t it be nice if eSIM is there? You simply turn on your phone once you arrive, and connect to a local carrier at local rates instead? Sounds amazing, right?

Why Vietnam eSIM for your travel abroad
Why Vietnam eSIM for your travel abroad

2. Is eSIM available in Vietnam?

Yes, all 4 major networks in Vietnam (Viettel, Vinaphone, MobileFone and Vietnamobile) are offering high-speed eSIM data services.

eSIM works well everywhere in Vietnam, no matter if it’s in a major city like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, or in the seascape like Halong Bay, or in a remote area like Ha Giang.

Vietnam data eSIMs are currently available in the following packages:

Available Vietnam eSIM data packagesYour benefits
500MBbrowse the internet for around 6 hours;stream 100 songs; orwatch 1 hour of standard-definition video
1GBbrowse the internet for around 12 hours; stream 200 songs; or watch 2 hours of standard-definition video
2Gbbrowse the internet for around 24 hours;stream 400 songs; or watch 4 hours of standard-definition video
3GBbrowse the internet for around 36 hours; stream 600 songs; or watch 6 hours of standard-definition video
5GBbrowse the internet for around 48 hours;stream 800 songs; or watch 8 hours of standard-definition video
7GBbrowse the internet for around 67 hours;stream 1,120 songs; or watch 12 hours of standard-definition video
8GBbrowse the internet for around 96 hours;stream 1,600 songs; or watch 16 hours of standard-definition video
10GBbrowse the internet for around 120 hours;stream 2,000 songs; or watch 20 hours of standard-definition video
15GBbrowse the internet for around 180 hours;stream 3,000 songs; or watch 30 hours of standard-definition video
Unlimited dataDepending on the policy of package.

>>What type of Vietnam data eSIM plan makes sense for you?

  • If you have a short trip to Vietnam (a few days), and you don’t have a high demand for internet connection, 3-5 GB of data is enough.
  • If you have a longer trip, or have high demand for internet connection for website browsing, streaming, playing games, Facetime, a higher data package should be considered.

>>Tips to save your data for Vietnam: Make good use of free Wifi in your hotels, restaurants, café, etc.

Type of data plan makes sense for your  Vietnam travel
Type of mobile data plan makes sense for your Vietnam travel

3. Vietnam eSIM types and features

Based on its function, Vietnam eSIM is divided into 2 types:

  • Data eSIM (for internet connection only), and
  • Voice, Text and Data eSIM (for analog calls, SMS and internet connection).

>> Good to know: a Data eSIM is highly recommended if you just visit Vietnam for a leisure trip, as you still have your local number remained in your phone to receive your urgent calls, and have WhatsApp, Viber and many other apps to keep you connected with your family and friends.

A Vietam data-only eSIM is enough for your Vietnam trip - Gigago
A data-only eSIM is enough for your Vietnam trip

Here come the major features of Vietnam data eSIMs:

  • Most Vietnam data eSIM cards come with no Vietnamese phone number, so no call and text service will be available, but Gigago eSIM Vietnam has one which functions to receive calls and SMS.
  • The eSIM plans are normally automatically connected to the corresponding eSIM mobile data network operators and give the users instant connectivity.
  • They could be installed once only, i.e if you remove it, you cannot install it again on any device. But there are some which can be installed again once the old one is removed (of course, their validity is accumulated and remains unchanged).
  • You can have multiple eSIM profiles on a phone, depending on which phone you are using. But maximum 3 eSIMs in one phone is recommended to optimize your phone performance and you will have only one eSIM profile active at once.
  •  Top-up options: Most data eSIM cannot be topped. So, when you use up your data, you need to shop for a new one.

4. Best Vietnam eSIM mobile network operators in Vietnam

When it comes to Vietnam eSIM networks, you will find 4 mobile operators, consisting:

  • Viettel
  • VinaPhone
  • MobiFone, and
  • Vietnamobile.

>>Want a quick answer for which is the best?

  • The best mobile network operator in Vietnam is Viettel, followed by VinaPhone.
  • Viettel and Vinaphone are about the same in terms of coverage and speeds, but Viettel takes the edge in terms of rural areas.
  • Mobifone has patchy coverage in rural areas.
  • Vietnamobile’s 4G coverage is still much more restricted than on the state-owned providers.

You can see the latest Vietnam mobile experience report by OpenSignal:

Vietnam Mobile Network Experience Awards by OpenSignal (March 2022)

The chart shows us that:

  • Vinaphone users experienced the fastest download and upload speeds
  • Viettel Mobile is top for Voice App and Games Experience
  • Viettel Mobile leads in 4G Availability and 4G Coverage Experience
  • Vinaphone wins Excellent Consistent Quality outright and shares the Core Consistent Quality award with MobiFone

Here we will show you the coverage maps of these 4 mobile operators in Vietnam as proofs for our judgments above.

4.1 Viettel eSIM Coverage Map

As mentioned above, Vietnam offers the best mobile coverage in Vietnam. It is the biggest mobile operator in Vietnam market.

Viettel Vietnam eSIM coverage Map - Gigago
Viettel Vietnam eSIM coverage Map – 3G, 4G, 4G+ & 5G

👉Fast facts about Viettel Network:

  • Upload Speed: 8.3 Mbps (No. 2 in Vietnam)
  • Download speed: 28.0 Mbps (No. 2 in Vietnam)
  • Voice App Experience (in 0-100 points): 83.0  (No. 1 in Vietnam)
  • Games experience (in 0-100 points): 77.2 (No. 1 in Vietnam)
  • Video experience (in 0-100 points): 54.5 (No. 2 in Vietnam)
  • 4G availability (% of time): 86.9 (No. 2 in Vietnam)
  • 4G Coverage experience (in 0-10 points): 9.0 (No. 1 in Vietnam)

(According to the latest report of OpenSignal – March 2022)

👉Viettel data eSIM providers include:

  • GetNomad (in the form of Truphone – a combination of Viettel, MobiFone and Vinaphone).
    • Price range: US $13.96 – US $44.88
    • Data plan packages: 1 – 2 – 5 GB
    • Validity: 1 – 30 days.

4.2 Vinaphone eSIM coverage map

Vinaphone is the second biggest mobile operator in Vietnam, and has a market share of 30%. It gives good coverage and speed throughout the country. 4G/LTE was started on Phu Quoc island in 2016 and is now rolled out nationwide.

Vinaphone Vietnam  eSIM coverage Map - 3G, 4G, 4G+ & 5G
Vinaphone Vietnam eSIM coverage Map – 3G, 4G, 4G+ & 5G

👉Fast facts about VinaPhone Network:

  • Upload Speed 11.9 Mbps (No. 2 in Vietnam)
  • Download speed: 35.6 Mbps (No. 2 in Vietnam)
  • Voice App Experience (in 0-100 points): 82.3  (No. 2 in Vietnam)
  • Games experience (in 0-100 points): 76.9 (No. 2 in Vietnam)
  • Video experience (in 0-100 points): 60.4 (No. 1 in Vietnam)
  • 4G availability (% of time): 84.7 (No. 2 in Vietnam)
  • 4G Coverage experience (in 0-10 points): 7.3 (No. 1 in Vietnam)

(According to the latest report of OpenSignal – March 2022)

👉Vinaphone data eSIM providers include:

  • Gigago:
    • Price range: US $10 – US $19
    • Data plan packages: 7 – 10 – 15 – 120 GB
    • Validity: 8 – 16 – 30 days.
  • Airalo:
    • 1GB for 7 days for $4.5

4.3 MobiFone eSIM coverage map

Mobifone is the 3rd mobile provider in Vietnam with a 18% market share. Its speeds and coverage may be good in the centers and around the coast, but can be patchy in the mountains.

MobiFone Vietnam eSIM coverage Map - 3G, 4G, 4G+ & 5G - Gigago
MobiFone Vietnam eSIM coverage Map – 3G, 4G, 4G+ & 5G

👉Fast facts about MobiFone Network:

  • Upload Speed 10.4 Mbps (No. 3 in Vietnam)
  • Download speed: 26.1 Mbps (No. 3 in Vietnam)
  • Voice App Experience (in 0-100 points): 82.3  (No. 1 in Vietnam, the same as VinaPhone)
  • Games experience (in 0-100 points): 74.7 (No. 3 in Vietnam)
  • Video experience (in 0-100 points): 55.0 (No. 3 in Vietnam)
  • 4G availability (% of time): 80.6 (No. 3 in Vietnam)
  • 4G Coverage experience (in 0-10 points): 5.9 (No. 3 in Vietnam)

(According to the latest report of OpenSignal – March 2022)

4.4 Vietnamobile eSIM coverage map

Vietnamobile is the smallest of the 4 providers. It gives out the best prices in Vietnam and has a market share of around 10%.

Its coverage is not good, especially in rural areas. As such, we don’t suggest you stick to it.

Vietnamobile Vietnam eSIM coverage Map - 3G, 4G, 4G+ & 5G - gigago
Vietnamobile Vietnam eSIM coverage Map – 3G, 4G, 4G

👉Fast facts about Vietnamobile Network:

  • Upload Speed 2.1 Mbps (No. 4 in Vietnam)
  • Download speed: 5.4 Mbps (No. 4 in Vietnam)
  • Voice App Experience (in 0-100 points): 77.0  (No. 4 in Vietnam)
  • Games experience (in 0-100 points): 56.5 (No. 4 in Vietnam)
  • Video experience (in 0-100 points): 27.9 (No. 4 in Vietnam)
  • 4G availability (% of time): 80.2 (No. 4 in Vietnam)
  • 4G Coverage experience (in 0-10 points): 3.2 (No. 1 in Vietnam)

(According to the latest report of OpenSignal – March 2022)

👉Vietnamobile data eSIM providers include:

  • Holafly:
    • Price range: US $19 – US $99
    • Data plan packages: Unlimited
    • Validity: 5 – 90 days.

5. Best Vietnam eSIM data plans and providers

We think that one thing you must need to know now is which providers are offering data eSIM cards for Vietnam, how much they charge for an eSIM Vietnam and what their pros and cons are. Bu this way, you can compare their rates and buy the eSIM matching your needs.

Here are top carriers that provide Vietnam prepaid data eSIM cards:

  • Gigago,
  • Holafly
  • Airalo
  • Nomad

Let’s look at one by one and finally make a brief comparison.

5.1 Gigago Vietnam eSIM data plans

👉Network: VinaPhone – the second largest mobile operator in Vietnam

👉Gigago eSIM Data plans and Prices:

  • 7 GB for 8 days – US $10
  • 10GB for 16 days – US $12
  • 15GB for 30 days – US $15
  • 120GB (4GB/day) for 30 days – US $19

👉What you should know about Gigago & its plans:

  • Gigago is a great premium eSIM provider with the lowest prices.
  • Gigago supports you 24/7 in English and Vietnamese.
  • Gigago eSIM data plan cannot be topped up. It means that when you use up your data, you need to buy a new one if you need more data.
  • Gigago eSIM gives you a Vietnamese number to receive calls and SMS.
  • Gigago doesn’t have Vietnam eSIM unlimited data packages.
  • Gigago eSIM validity starts when the eSIM is activated.
  • To activate Gigago eSIM, you need text as guided

👉Suitable for: Those who want an eSIM of good coverage but local rates, and want to have a Vietnamese phone number to receive calls and SMS.

👉Not suitable for: Those who don’t want to activate their eSIM by texting, but automatically connected.

5.2 Holafly Vietnam eSIM data plans

👉Network: Vietnamobile – the 4th mobile operator in Vietnam – Not recommended if you visit the remote or mountainous areas.

👉Holafly eSIM Data plans and Prices:

Holafly are offering:

  • Vietnam unlimited data eSIM for 5 days – US $19
  • Vietnam unlimited data eSIM for 10 days – US $34
  • Vietnam unlimited data eSIM for 15 days – US $47
  • Vietnam unlimited data eSIM for 20 days – US $54
  • Vietnam unlimited data eSIM for 30 days – US $64
  • Vietnam unlimited data eSIM for 60 days – US $84
  • Vietnam unlimited data eSIM for 90 days – US $99
Holafly Vietnam eSIM data plans and prices - Gigago
Holafly Vietnam eSIM data plans and prices

👉What you should know about Holafly & its plans:

  • Holafly Vietnam eSIM network is Vietnamobile – which is not really good in rural, remote and mountainous areas. In addition, your speeds will not be as fast as going with Vietnamobile itself because you will be roaming on their networks (and not be a native customer)
  • Holafly is the only Vietnam eSIM provider that provides unlimited data plans.
  • You cannot call or text with the Holafly eSIM (nor can you receive them – you get no (local) phone number)
  • Holafly is the most expensive travel eSIM provider in this guide and may not be the best for budget travelers.
  • Holafly eSIM is automatically connected to Vietnamobile when it is detected.
  • Holafly eSIM data plans cannot be topped up as well.

👉Suitable for: travelers who do not want to deal with data caps because you get unlimited data.

👉Not suitable for: those who want a fast connection wherever in Vietnam.

5.3. Airalo Vietnam eSIM data plans

👉Network: VinaPhone (the second biggest mobile network operator in Vietnam)

👉Airalo eSIM Data plans and Prices:

  • 1GB for 7 days: US $4.5
Airalo offers only one Vietnam data eSIM plans at US $4.5 (1GB for 7 days) - Gigago
Airalo offers only one Vietnam data eSIM plans at US $4.5 (1GB for 7 days)

👉What you should know about Airalo & its plans:

  • Airalo has only one data package for Vietnam.
  • Its eSIM can be topped at the same price and validity.
  • You cannot call or text with the Airalo eSIM (nor can you receive them – you get no (local) phone number)
  • Airalo eSIM is automatically connected to VinaPhone when it is detected.
  • The validity period starts when the eSIM connects to any supported network.

👉Suitable for: those who want to have fast speeds, affordable price

👉Not suitable for: those who want to buy one big data plan at one time

5.4 Getnomad Vietnam eSIM data plans

👉Network: Truphone – a combination of local networks (Vinaphone, MobiFone, Viettel Mobile)

👉Getnomad Vietnam eSIM data plans and prices:

  • 1GB for 7 days: US $5
  • 2GB for 7 days: US $10
  • 3GB for 7 days: US $13
  • 5GB for 7 days: US $15
GetNomad Vietnam eSIM data plans and costs - Gigago
GetNomad Vietnam eSIM data plans and costs

👉What you should know about GetNomad & its plans:

  • GetNomad’s data plan does not come with a number, so no call and text service will be available.
  • Its eSIM validity will start after you activate your plan.
  • After purchase, you have 30 days to activate your plan. Otherwise, your plan will automatically activate on the 30th day and expiry will start.
  • Its eSIM is automatically connected to VinaPhone when it is detected.

👉Suitable for: those who want to have fast speeds, affordable price, and have a close date of travel to Vietnam.

👉Not suitable for: those who want to buy one big data plan for a long stay at one time, or whose travel date is over 30 days from the date of buying the eSIM.

5.5 Comparison of eSIM providers for Vietnam

Let’s make a brief review of all the above Vietnam eSIM providers to make your own decision.

Provider Network Data package Validity (days) Price Unit price (/GB) Support languages Pros Cons
Gigago Vinaphone 7GB 8 US $10 US $1.43 English & Vietnamese

+ The single Vietnam eSIM provider based in Vietnam

+ Cheapest price

+ Good coverage by Vinaphone Coming with Vietnamese number to receive calls and SMS

+ Activated by texting

+ Cannot be topped up

10GB 16 US $12 US $1.2
15GB 30 US $15 US $1.26
120GB 30 US $19 US $0.16
Holafly Vietnamobile Unlimited data 5 US $19 Not calculated Spanish, English, German and French

+ Automatically connected when the network is detected

+ Have package for long-term trip (over 30 days)

+ Affordable price

+ Vietnamobile is not a good option for internet coverage in Vietnam

+ Cannot be topped up

Unlimited data 10 US $34 Not calculated
Unlimited data 15 US $47 Not calculated
Unlimited data 20 US $54 Not calculated
Unlimited data 30 US $64 Not calculated
Unlimited data 60 US $84 Not calculated
Unlimited data 90 US $99 Not calculated
Airalo VinaPhone 1GB 7 US $4.5 US $4.5 English and French

+ Good coverage by Vinaphone

+ Can be topped up

+ Automatically connected when the network is detected

+ The package is small, making its price quite high

GetNomad TruPhone 1GB 7 US $5 US $5 English

+ Good coverage by Viettel, Vinaphone and MobiFone

+ Automatically connected when the network is detected

+ The package is small

+ No option for long-term trips

+ Price is higher than others

+ Interval between the purchase date and the activation date is limited to 30 days.

2GB 7 US $10 US $5
3Gb 7 US $13 US $4.33
5GB 7 US $15 US $3

>> Do you find the best data plans for your Vietnam travel? If not, contact us for consultation.

6. Vietnam eSIM compatible devices

After finding that a prepaid data eSIM completely fits your Vietnam travel, let’s figure out whether your device supports it.

Like eSIM for many other countries in this world, Vietnam eSIMs can be fitted to a wide range of products, such as smartphones, wearables and computers. It also can be fitted to IoT devices, such as automotive, smart meters.

More and more devices are supporting Vietnam eSIM

However, in this section, we are guiding you with the Vietnam tourist eSIM data plans; as such we will only note the list of phones and laptops (that may be required to be taken with you for certain works) that support eSIM. In case you need it for your other devices, feel free to let us know.

Important: Your phone must also be carrier-unlocked to use data eSIM Vietnam.

6.1 iPhones and Ipads with eSIM

Here is the list of iPhones and iPads that you can insert a prepaid Vietnam eSIM data plan.

Iphones and Ipads supports Vietnam eSIM
  • iPhone XR
  • iPhone XS, XS Max
  • iPhone 11, 11 Pro
  • iPhone SE 2 (2020)
  • iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
  • iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
  • iPhone SE 3 (2022)
  • iPad Pro 11″ (model A2068, from 2020)
  • iPad Pro 12.9″ (model A2069, from 2020)
  • iPad Air (model A2123, from 2019)
  • iPad (model A2198, from 2019)
  • iPad Mini (model A2124, from 2019)

>>Notes:

  • On iPhone 13 models you can have two eSIMs activated at the same time
  • *iPhones from mainland China and iPhone devices from Hong Kong and Macao (except for iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone SE 2020, and iPhone XS) don’t have eSIM capability.

6.2 Samsung phones with eSIM

Here is the list of Samsung Phones and Notes that support a Vietnam prepaid data eSIM.

Samsung phones with eSIM for Vietnam
Samsung phones with eSIM for Vietnam
  • Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra
  • Samsung Galaxy S21, S21+ 5G, S21+ Ultra 5G
  • Samsung Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra
  • Samsung Galaxy Note 20, Note 20 Ultra 5G 
  • Samsung Galaxy Fold, Fold 3
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G, Z Fold3 5G
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, Z Flip3 5G Fold, Z Flip
  • Samsung Watch (via Samsung Wearable application)

*The following Samsung devices are not compatible with eSIM:

  • Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 4G/5G
  • Samsung S20/S21 (US versions)
  • Galaxy Z Flip 5G (US versions)
  • Samsung Note 20 Ultra (Versions from the US and Hong Kong)
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 (Versions from the US and Hong Kong)

6.3 Google phones with eSIM

Here is the list of Google Pixel phones that support a prepaid Vietnam data eSIM.

Google phones support eSIM Vietnam - Gigago
Google phones support eSIM Vietnam
  • Google Pixel 2, 2 XL
  • Google Pixel 3, 3 XL
  • Google Pixel 3a, 3a XL
  • Google Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL
  • Google Pixel 5, 5a
  • Google Pixel 6, 6a, 6 Pro.

Notes:

  • Google Pixel 3 phones from Australia, Japan, and Taiwan are not compatible with eSIM.
  • Google Pixel 3 phones bought with US or Canadian carriers other than Spring and Google Fi don’t work with eSIM
  • Google Pixel 3a from South East Asia are not compatible with eSIM.
  • Only Google Pixel 2 phones bought with Google Fi service support eSIM.

6.34 Other phones with eSIM

This list includes:

  • Huawei Phones: P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro (not including Huawei P40 Pro+ and P50 Pro)
  • Oppo Phones: Find X3 Pro, Reno 5A, Reno6 Pro 5G, Find X5, Find X5 Pro (not including Oppo Find X5 Lite)
  • Motorola phones: Razr 2019 and Razr 5G
  • Sony phones: Xperia 10 III Lite and Xperia 1 IV
  • Others: Nuu Mobile X5, Gemini PDA, Rakuten Mini, Rakuten Big-S, Rakuten Big, Surface Pro X, Honor Magic 4 Pro, and Fairphone 4.

6.5 Laptops with eSIM

  • Microsoft Surface Pro X
  • Microsoft Surface Go 2
  • Microsoft Surface Pro LTE Advanced
  • Acer Swift 3
  • Acer Swift 7
  • Asus Mini Transformer
  • Asus NovaGo
  • Asus VivoBook Flip 14
  • HP Elitebook G5
  • HP Probook G5
  • HP Zbook G5
  • HP Specter Folio 13
  • Lenovo Yoga C630
  • Lenovo Miix 630
  • Lenovo Yoga 520
  • Lenovo Flex 5G
  • Samsung Galaxy Book 2

>> Check how to check if your phone is eSIM compatible here.

7. How Vietnam eSIM works

Similar to eSIM in any other country in the world, the way an eSIM in Vietnam works is that when you buy an eSIM Vietnam online, you will receive its QR code via email, and you will scan the QR code to add it to your phone, and then you will activate it to connect your phone to the internet.

The section below guides you through the steps to install and activate your data eSIM Vietnam.

>> Important:

  • The Vietnam eSIM installation and activation guide may slightly differ from phone to phone, and in this section, we will show you the typical guide for iPhones, Samsung phones, and Google Pixel phones. In case your phone shows a difference, please contact your eSIM provider for assistance.
  • You should install the eSIM before departure to get connected right after landing in Vietnam.
  • Before installation, please make sure:
    • You have a Wifi connection
    • You have an unlocked eSIM compatible device
    • You have a valid QR Code to scan (keep the QR sent to you on your computer or another phone, or get it printed in case you do not a computer or a phone and cannot borrow one).
  • During using the Vietnam eSIM data plan, please turn off your primary sim data to avoid an expensive roaming charge.

Now, follow these steps to have the Vietnam tourist data eSIM ready on your phones.

7.1 Vietnam eSIM iPhone Users’ Guide

Let’s look at how to install Vietnam eSIM on your iPhones. (Note: Depending on your phone language, the Cellular data can be displayed as Mobile data)

Step 1: Install the eSIM on iPhones

  • Go to Settings > Cellular
  • Tap Add Cellular Plan
  • Scan the QR Code provided to you by the eSIM provider
  • Tap Add Data Plan
  • Label your data plan if you like
  • Turn off your eSIM until you reach Vietnam (don’t need to do so if you are in Vietnam)

Step 2: Activate your eSIM in Vietnam

Upon landing in Vietnam, please:

  • Turn on your eSIM profile and its data roaming (don’t need to do so if you do not turn it off in Step 1)
  • Dial *101# from your eSIM number (only applicable if you use Gigago eSIM)
  • Go to Settings >> Cellular Data >> Select your Vietnam eSIM. Remember to turn off the Allow Cellular Data Switching to avoid roaming charge from your primary number.

7.2 Vietnam eSIM Samsung Phone User’s Guide

Step 1: Install the eSIM on Samsung phones

  • Go to Settings >> Connections
  • Select SIM card manager
  • Tap Add Mobile Plans on the eSIMs block
  • Tap Add plan using QR code.
  • Scan the QR code
  • Tap Add to add this data plan to your phone.
  • Turn off your eSIM until you reach Vietnam (don’t need to do so if you are in Vietnam)

► Step 2: Activate your Esim

Upon landing in Vietnam, please:

  • Go to Settings >> Connections >> SIM card manager
  • Select your eSIM and turn it on and turn its data roaming on as well.
  • Make a phone call to *101# from your eSIM number to activate it (only applicable if you use Gigago eSIM)

7.3 Vietnam eSIM Google Phone User’s Guide

Step 1: Install the eSIM on Google phones

  • Go to Settings >> Network & internet
  • Tap “+” next to Mobile Network
  • Tap Don’t have a SIM Card? in case your phone has no other SIM card or Download a SIM instead? In case one SIM card is available on your phone.
  • Scan the QR code
  • Tap Continue to add this data plan to your phone.
  • Turn off your eSIM until you reach Vietnam (don’t need to do so if you are in Vietnam)

► Step 2: Activate your eSIM

  • Go to Settings > Network & internet 
  • Select your eSIM and turn it on (don’t need to do so if you are in Vietnam) and turn its data roaming on.
  • Make a phone call to *101# from your eSIM number to activate it (only applicable if you use Gigago eSIM).

8. How to buy eSIM for Vietnam? When and where?

When to buy esim for Vietnam: Before departure to Vietnam, or upon your current data SIM/eSIM Card is used up, or expires and you need more data.

Where to buy eSIM for Vietnam: Buy online. You can buy your prepaid data eSIM for Vietnam from various providers mentioned above, including Gigago, Holafly, Airalo, etc.

How to buy esim for Vietnam: Buying a Vietnam eSIM is as easy as 1, 2, 3. It can be done online with some simple steps:

  • Choose your suitable data plan, and place the order
  • Check your email with QR Code
  • Scan the QR code
  • Activate and be ready for your trip to Vietnam

👉 Note: Before buying an eSIM Vietnam, please make sure that your device is eSIM compatible.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Vietnam eSIM cost?

You can get an eSIM for Vietnam for as little as US $4.5, with 1GB for 7 days and up to US $99, with unlimited data for 90 days, from Gigago, Airralo, Gigago, Holafly and GetNomad. 

Can I share data or activate tethering with the eSIM in Vietnam?

It depends on the eSIM you buy. For example, Gigago eSIM allows you to share your data with others.

Should I install eSIM before traveling?

Yes. It’s best to set up your eSIM before departure to get it connected right after your landing. However, there are providers that require you to have your eSIM activated within 30 days of installation. So, please check with your eSIM provider for details.

How many Vietnam eSIMs can I install on my phone?

An eSIM-compatible mobile phone can accommodate several eSIM profiles at once (in the case of the iPhone, up to 20), but please remember that you can only have one profile active at once.

Can I keep my WhatsApp number?

Yes, nothing will be changed when you activate your Vietnam esim data plan. Your number, contacts, and conversations are automatically kept.