No products in the cart.
Grab OTP in Vietnam: How to Get a Local Number for Ride-Hailing (2025 Guide)
Many visitors to Vietnam rely on Grab for booking rides, food delivery, and even package services. But one common problem is not receiving the OTP (one-time password) during account setup or login. Without a local number, you may not be able to use the app at all. This guide explains how to receive Grab OTP in Vietnam, covering SIM and eSIM options, real market prices in 2025, and practical user stories.
🚖 Why Grab OTP Matters for Tourists and Expats
- Account Setup: First-time users need OTP to register on Grab.
- Login Security: Existing users changing devices will be asked for OTP.
- Ride & Food Booking: Without OTP, you can’t access the app for taxis or GrabFood.
📱 Can Foreign Numbers Receive Grab OTP in Vietnam?
In theory, yes. If your home SIM is roaming, Grab may still send OTP SMS. But in practice, delivery often fails due to network filtering or high latency. Many travelers find they can’t get the code until they switch to a Vietnamese number.
💡 SIM vs eSIM Options for Grab OTP
Here are the most common solutions available:
| Option | Data & Calls | Grab OTP | Price Range (2025) | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport SIM (physical) | 3–5GB/day + local number | ✅ Works | $18–22 (15 days) | SGN, HAN, DAD airports |
| City Shop SIM | 3–5GB/day + local number | ✅ Works | $15–20 (15 days) | Mobile stores downtown |
| eSIM with Phone Number | 3–6GB/day + local number | ✅ Works | $12–19 (10–30 days) | Online (GoVnSIM, resellers) |
| Data-only eSIM | 4–6GB/day, no number | ❌ Not possible | $13–18 (15–30 days) | Online shops |
⚖️ Pros & Cons of Using a Local Vietnam Number
Pros:
- OTP delivered instantly for Grab registration.
- One number works across multiple apps (banking, Telegram, WhatsApp).
- Cheaper than roaming or international SMS fees.
Cons:
- Airport counters charge 20–30% more than online.
- Passport required for physical SIM purchases.
- Data-only plans won’t support OTP.
📊 Traveler Story: Grab OTP in Ho Chi Minh City (2025)
James, a traveler from the UK, landed at Tan Son Nhat Airport in February 2025. He tried to register Grab using his UK number but never received the OTP, even after multiple attempts. Stuck outside the terminal, he had to take an overpriced taxi into the city. The next day, he bought a local SIM card for 500,000 VND (~20 USD). With a Vietnamese number, OTP arrived instantly, and he could finally book rides on Grab.
Later, he learned that an eSIM with number online would have cost only $14.50 for 20 days, activated instantly with a QR code. He could have avoided the stress and extra cost on arrival.
Lesson: For first-time Grab users, a Vietnam number ensures smooth OTP and ride-booking experience.
🚫 Common Problems with Grab OTP
- No OTP on roaming: Many foreign SIMs cannot receive Grab OTP while in Vietnam.
- Choosing wrong plan: Data-only eSIMs do not include SMS function.
- Registration delays: Some physical SIMs require APN setup or activation time before working fully.
🔑 Best eSIM Plans for Grab OTP in 2025
- Vietnam eSIM with Phone Number – $8.50–$19.50 (10–30 days), OTP-ready.
- Vietnam eSIM 20 Days (4GB/day) – $14.50, instant activation, includes number.
- Vietnam eSIM 30 Days Ultimate Plan – $18.50, 6GB/day, includes number, great for longer stays.
🛫 Airport SIM vs Online eSIM
Airport SIMs are convenient but pricier. Example:
- SGN Airport: 15-day SIM with 3GB/day + number → ~$20–22.
- Online eSIM with number: ~$14.50 (20 days), delivered instantly by email.
Tip: For Grab users who need OTP on arrival, ordering an eSIM before departure is the safest option.
❓ FAQ: Grab OTP in Vietnam
Q: Can I use my foreign number for Grab OTP?
A: Sometimes, but often unreliable. Local Vietnam numbers work best.
Q: Do all eSIMs support Grab OTP?
A: No. Only eSIMs with a phone number can receive OTP SMS.
Q: Do I need to show passport?
A: Yes for physical SIMs at shops or airports, but not for online eSIMs.
✅ Final Takeaway
If you rely on Grab for rides and food delivery, don’t risk missing OTPs. A Vietnam number is essential. In 2025, the most reliable and cost-effective way is an eSIM with number, ordered before your trip.
📣 Plan Your Connectivity
Need OTP support for Grab and other apps? See the full details in our Vietnam OTP SIM & eSIM guide.
✅ Want instant setup? Order your Vietnam eSIM today from GoVnSIM and receive your QR by email. Start using Grab and other apps smoothly the moment you land.
Part of Heera Travel Group – Explore more Vietnam tours at HeeraTravel.com