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SIM cards and eSIM in Vietnam

Which carriers matter, what buying a SIM involves, and when an eSIM is the smarter move.

Mobile internet eSIM Best option when traveling

Guac app icon

Guac

Recommended

Reliable mobile internet at better prices than most travel eSIMs, with polished iOS and Android apps and support for making and receiving phone calls.

App StorePlay StoreSee plans

Airalo

One of the biggest travel eSIM brands, with a very large destination catalog.

Holafly

Known for unlimited-data plans in many destinations, at a higher price per gigabyte.

Buying a local SIM card ID registration required

Registration
Bring your passport; the seller registers the prepaid SIM during activation.
Tourist plans and prices
Viettel Super 4G includes 30GB for 30 days and costs around 120,000 VND (~$4.80).
Where to buy
Starter packs may be sold in convenience stores, but an official carrier shop is safer for registration and activation.
Local eSIM
A travel eSIM is the simpler option and avoids local SIM registration steps.

Good to know

Avoid pre-activated SIMs sold without an ID check; they can be blocked without warning.

Local carriers

  • Viettel

    Best choice for broad coverage, including rural areas.

  • MobiFone

    Tourist-friendly choice with a straightforward purchase process.

  • VinaPhone

    A solid alternative; compare current prepaid offers before buying.

eSIM and SIM cards by country→
Sources and how current this is

Data checked July 2026

Source dates: Vietnam Unlock: 23 Jun 2026 | Vietnam Backpacker Hostels: 3 Dec 2025 | TIsland: 29 May 2026 | VietnamTour.in: 1 May 2026

Sources disagree: Registration practice or tourist eligibility still varies between published accounts. Quoted prices or bundle details vary by seller and may change at short notice.

Sources

  • vietnamunlock.com
  • vietnambackpackerhostels.com
  • tisland.travel
  • vietnamtour.in

Frequently asked questions

Do I need my passport to buy a SIM card in Vietnam?

Bring your passport; the seller registers the prepaid SIM during activation.

What is the best eSIM for Vietnam?

Guac eSIM covers Vietnam with data plans starting from $1.50 per GB and instant activation, so your phone is online the moment you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular alternatives.

← All essential apps for Vietnam