Are you considering a trip to Vietnam? It is strongly advised that you purchase a prepaid Vietnam SIM card for tourists with a data plan so that you can stay connected while traveling.
Let’s continue with all the information you require on the SIM card for your journey to Vietnam.
1. Why You Should Get a SIM Card in Vietnam?
Connecting when you are traveling in Vietnam is necessary. Not only to serf the web or search Google Maps, but also for:
- Calling for emergency help.
- Getting in touch with accommodations and tour agencies.
- Reading menus or street markers in a foreign language
- Booking a taxi
- Using convenient apps for travel in Vietnam: Metro, BusMap, Momo
Most public places in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi often have free Wi-Fi, but. Buying a SIM card will give you a convenient, fast and stable connection starting at only $5.
2. Is it possible for foreigners to purchase SIM cards in Vietnam?
Yes. In Vietnam, foreigners can buy prepaid SIM cards, and it’s actually very easy and quick.
Requirements:
- A valid passport
- Your passport number will be used to register the SIM.
- Optional: Hotel address or local contact (certain suppliers ask)
In Vietnam, it is against the law not to register; hence, only an authorized agency or provider can activate SIMs. Most airport kiosks can do everything for you in less than five minutes.
3. Where can foreigners buy a Vietnam SIM card?
Buy at the airport:
Location: SIMs can be purchased upon arrival at Hanoi (Noi Bai Airport), HCMC (Tan Son Nhat Airport), and Da Nang International Airport.
Advantages:
- Quick activation (takes only 5–10 minutes).
- Personnel are proficient in English.
- The SIM card is pre-registered and immediately functional.
Disadvantages:
- Priced slightly above the market rate
Buy in the cities:
Sims store:
- Branded stores of major telecommunication providers.
- Various electronics outlets and small phone stalls.
Advantages:
- A wider variety of choices is available
- More competitive rates.
Disadvantages:
- English fluency among staff can be limited.
- Extended waiting periods and tourist plans may be less comprehensive.
Tip: Only buy from street sellers or convenience stores if you know for sure that the SIM card is real and has been registered with a passport.
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4. Top 3 Popular Vietnam SIM Card For Tourists
Vietnam’s tourist SIM plans are cheap and already include data. They are good for 7 to 30 days.
| Provider | Data | Validity | Price (VND) | Includes |
| Viettel | 15–30GB | 7–30 days | 150,000–250,000 | Local calls + SMS |
| Vinaphone | 10–25GB | 7–30 days | 120,000–200,000 | Social media bonus |
| Mobifone | 5–20GB | 7–30 days | 100,000–180,000 | Good for city use |
5. How to register a SIM Card?
SIM registration is a legal requirement in Vietnam for all customers, tourists included. Unregistered SIMs risk immediate blockage.
Registration process:
- You must present your original passport (photocopies are not accepted).
- The staff will capture an image or scan your personal details.
- A confirmation text message will be sent to verify successful registration.
- The SIM is typically activated within ten minutes.
Activation steps:
- Place the SIM card into your mobile device.
- Reboot your device.
- You will receive a welcome SMS containing details about your data plan.
- Dial a specific code (e.g., *101#) to check your current balance and data allowance.
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6. Where to Reload and Check Your Balance?
If your data or minutes run low, recharging your Vietnam SIM card is simple.
How to Reload:
- Prepaid Scratch Cards: Available for purchase at convenience stores (e.g., Circle K, VinMart).
- Digital Recharge: Use local e-wallets like MoMo, ZaloPay, or the official provider websites.
- In-Store Service: Visit an official telecom outlet and ask to recharge your balance and renew your data package.
Popular codes:
- Check remaining credit: *101#
- Inquire about data allowance: *102#
- Viettel management app: My Viettel (on iOS/Android)
- Vinaphone management app: My VNPT
Helpful Tip: If you don’t speak Vietnamese, ask the store staff for assistance with the top-up process. Most are generally happy to help.
