Mobile Connectivity (SIM, eSIM, Roaming) in Vietnam: what actually matters to know
Short answer
Local physical SIM cards from providers like Viettel offer better network priority and functionality for SMS authentication compared to data-only eSIMs. Purchasing a local SIM with a passport is more cost-effective than using international roaming, with monthly data plans typically costing around 180,000–200,000 VND.
From real experience
Inquire about the current cost of local SIM cards in Vietnam, specifically for data packages lasting approximately 3 months.
Also, seek advice on whether purchasing a local SIM is more advantageous than using international roaming services.
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For reliable mobile service in Vietnam, providers like Viettel and Mobifone are popular choices.
When purchasing a SIM card, consider the data plans offered and ensure they meet your connectivity needs. For receiving SMS confirmations from Russian services while abroad, international roaming on your Russian SIM card might be necessary if local SIM plans do not support this functionality.
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eSIMs purchased via Trip.com for Vietnam usually provide data only without a local phone number, making them unsuitable for registering on services requiring SMS authentication, such as Grab.
Additionally, these virtual eSIMs may have lower network priority (QCI 8/9), leading to slower speeds in crowded areas compared to local physical SIMs (Viettel, Vinaphone).
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A 7-day SIM card with 50 GB of data costs approximately 190,000 VND and requires cash payment.
SIM cards can be purchased at the airport, but prices there might be higher. Tourist SIM cards are available without a passport and offer unlimited internet for around 200,000 VND. For longer stays or eSIM options, it's possible to purchase a SIM card at a salon with a passport.
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Viettel SIM cards are available in Vietnam.
Prices and data packages can vary between different Viettel offices. It's recommended to check reviews and compare prices at different branches to find the best deal. One user reported getting a plan with 6GB of data per day for about 180,000 VND per month in the center of the city near a roundabout.
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Popular e-sim services for Vietnam include Trip.com (often cited as the cheapest), esim.io (works well with VPN inside Vietnam), and various local e-sim providers which cost around 400,000 VND per month.
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Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased in Vietnam with a passport.
It is recommended to buy a SIM card locally as it is cheaper than using roaming services. eSIMs are also an option.