Best eSIM in Ho Chi Minh (2025 Guide)

Finding the best eSIM in Ho Chi Minh is a top priority for travelers who need reliable internet for navigation, ride-hailing apps, and communication. With options from Viettel, MobiFone, and VinaPhone, plus tourist-specific packages, visitors can easily stay connected. This 2025 guide compares the leading eSIM plans, real user experiences, and practical advice so you can choose the most suitable option for your trip.

📱 Why eSIM is Better for Travelers

Unlike traditional SIM cards, an eSIM can be activated by scanning a QR code sent to your email. Advantages include:

• Instant activation — no queues at Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN).
• Keep your primary SIM card — useful for WhatsApp, iMessage, or banking OTPs.
• Flexible duration and data allowances (10–30 days, 3–6GB/day).
• Available online before arrival, avoiding kiosk operating hours.

In Ho Chi Minh, eSIM is particularly useful because it lets you book Grab or Bolt rides immediately upon landing, saving time compared to waiting at counters.

💰 Best eSIM Plans in Ho Chi Minh (2025)

Based on updated offerings, here are the most recommended eSIMs for travelers in 2025:

• Vietnam eSIM 30 Days – 6GB/day (MobiFone, includes Vietnamese phone number and 500 minutes net calls).
• Vietnam eSIM 20 Days – 4GB/day (MobiFone, auto-activation on chosen start date, instant delivery).
• Viettel eSIM (15–30 days, 5GB/day, strongest nationwide coverage, hotspot allowed).
• Vietnam eSIM with Phone Number (10–30 days, 3GB/day, OTP-ready, includes local calls).

Each plan is delivered by email with a QR code, ready for setup within minutes. Prices range from $13.50 to $20 depending on duration and data allowance.

📶 Coverage & Speed in Ho Chi Minh City

Network quality plays a major role in determining the best eSIM. In February 2025, independent speed tests showed:

• Viettel: 4G average 52 Mbps, 5G peaks 220 Mbps, excellent suburban coverage.
• MobiFone: 4G average 46 Mbps, 5G ~200 Mbps around Nguyễn Huệ and District 1.
• VinaPhone: 4G ~41 Mbps, 5G up to 180 Mbps in District 7 and commercial zones.

For central Ho Chi Minh, all carriers provide reliable service. For trips to the Mekong Delta or coastal cities, Viettel consistently performs best.

📊 Case Study: Comparing Options

Three travelers arriving in Ho Chi Minh in early 2025 tested different setups:

• Anna (Germany): Used 20-day MobiFone eSIM for $14.50. Activated instantly, had 4G speeds of 50 Mbps in District 1.
• Raj (India): Bought Viettel eSIM 30 days, 5GB/day for $18. Used it in Ho Chi Minh and Mekong Delta with seamless 4G/5G coverage.
• Sofia (Spain): Purchased Vietnam eSIM with Phone Number. Found it essential for receiving Grab OTPs and making hotel bookings.

All three reported smooth experiences, but Raj highlighted Viettel’s stronger coverage outside the city.

🏬 Airport SIM vs eSIM

At SGN airport, tourist SIM cards cost $12–20 depending on package. Downsides include queues, passport registration, and limited package flexibility. In comparison:

• eSIMs can be set up before departure.
• No physical card swap required.
• Prices are similar or slightly cheaper, especially on multi-day plans.

See a full breakdown in the Ho Chi Minh City SIM Card Guide.

📝 Setup Guide for eSIM in HCMC

1. Ensure your phone is eSIM-compatible (iPhone 11+, Galaxy S20+, Pixel 4+).
2. Buy your eSIM online and check your email for the QR code.
3. On iPhone: Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM → Scan QR code.
4. On Android: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM.
5. Choose your new plan as the data line, keep your main SIM for calls.

Setup takes less than 5 minutes. Always confirm data connectivity before leaving the airport Wi-Fi zone.

❌ Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying from unverified sellers on the street — risk of expired or fake SIMs.
• Not checking whether the plan resets daily or is a lump-sum allowance.
• Forgetting to confirm APN settings, which may cause data issues.
• Assuming all plans include voice — many eSIMs are data-only unless specified.

🧳 Real-Life Traveler Insights

• David (UK): Used Viettel eSIM across Ho Chi Minh and Nha Trang. Reported smooth 5G, only minor slowdowns in rural areas.

• Lin (Taiwan): Picked Vietnam eSIM with Phone Number. OTP support was critical for banking and Grab. Used 30 minutes free calls to confirm tour bookings.

• Emma (Australia): Bought MobiFone 30-day eSIM for $18.50. Enjoyed smooth connectivity in HCMC and while working remotely from cafes in Thảo Điền.

❓ FAQ: Best eSIM in Ho Chi Minh

Q1: Can I buy an eSIM at SGN airport?
Not directly. Airport kiosks mainly sell physical SIM cards. eSIMs are usually purchased online.

Q2: Do eSIMs include a Vietnamese phone number?
Yes, some plans (e.g., Vietnam eSIM with Phone Number, MobiFone 30-day) include local numbers for calls and OTPs.

Q3: What if my phone doesn’t support eSIM?
You’ll need to buy a physical SIM at the airport or in District 1 carrier stores.

Q4: Is 5G available in Ho Chi Minh?
Yes, in central districts like 1, 3, and 7. Speeds average 180–220 Mbps depending on carrier.

Q5: Can I use my eSIM outside Ho Chi Minh?
Yes, all eSIMs cover Vietnam nationwide. Viettel offers the widest coverage in rural areas.

✅ Conclusion

The best eSIM in Ho Chi Minh depends on your travel style. For fast setup and OTP support, choose an eSIM with a phone number. For nationwide trips, Viettel’s coverage is unmatched. For short city stays, MobiFone offers excellent value with 6GB/day packages. No matter which you select, ordering in advance ensures stress-free connectivity from the moment you land.