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SMS vs Data-only eSIM in Vietnam — Why OTP With Data Only eSIM Doesn’t Work
Otp with data only esim vietnam is one of the most common mistakes travelers make when choosing mobile connectivity. While data-only eSIMs seem cheap and convenient, they cannot handle SMS-based OTP codes for apps like WhatsApp, Grab, banking, or food delivery. This article explains the difference between SMS-capable eSIMs and data-only eSIMs, real market prices, case studies, and the best options to avoid problems.
📌 What is a Data-only eSIM?
A data-only eSIM provides internet access but does not include a phone number. Without a number, you cannot send or receive SMS or voice calls. These plans are typically marketed to tourists who only want data for browsing, maps, and social media.
📌 What is an SMS-capable eSIM?
An SMS-capable eSIM includes a local Vietnam phone number. With this, you can receive OTP SMS messages from apps and services. This option is essential for travelers who need to use Grab, banking apps, or verify their accounts with a Vietnam number.
⚠️ Why OTP With Data Only eSIM Vietnam Fails
- No phone number: Apps require a number to deliver OTP codes.
- Banking security: Banks do not send OTP to IP-only addresses, only to registered numbers.
- App verification: Ride-hailing and food delivery apps (Grab, ShopeeFood) demand SMS confirmation.
- Regulation: Vietnamese operators must link OTP to a valid, registered number.
Common Problems with OTP: One traveler shared that after buying a cheap $9 data-only eSIM, WhatsApp OTP never arrived.
He later had to spend 450,000 VND (~$16.50) at a local shop for a SIM with number.
Had he chosen a GoVnSIM eSIM with phone number from the start, he would have saved both time and money, and been OTP-ready upon arrival.
🔍 Common Apps That Require SMS OTP
- WhatsApp / Telegram: Require SMS-based verification.
- Grab / Be: Local ride-hailing apps only verify via local numbers.
- Banking apps: Both Vietnamese and international apps need SMS OTP.
- Food delivery apps: ShopeeFood, Baemin, Now demand phone verification.
- E-visa and government services: Some portals send OTP to confirm access.
💰 Real Market Prices for 2025
Here is a realistic comparison of SIM and eSIM options for travelers needing OTP access:
| Option | Data | Validity | SMS/Phone Number | Typical Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Data-only eSIM | 5–10GB / package | 15–30 days | No | $8–12 |
| Airport SIM (Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh) | 3–5GB/day | 15–30 days | Yes | $20–25 |
| City SIM Shops | 4–6GB/day | 20–30 days | Yes | $16–22 |
| GoVnSIM Vietnam eSIM | 3–6GB/day | 10–30 days | Yes | $14.50–18.50 |
Offline shops (airport and city) are usually 20–30% more expensive than buying online in advance.
📊 Quick Checklist — Choosing the Right eSIM
- If you only need internet: Data-only eSIM is fine, but don’t expect OTP.
- If you need WhatsApp, Grab, or banking apps: Always choose SMS-capable eSIM with number.
- For dual-SIM phones: Keep your home SIM for messages, use Vietnam eSIM for data + OTP.
- Check delivery: Online eSIMs are instant; airport SIM shops may require waiting and passport check.
🧭 Best Time to Buy
Data-only eSIMs can be activated anytime, but SMS-capable eSIMs are more reliable when purchased before departure. This ensures instant OTP access on arrival, without searching for shops late at night.
📣 Plan Your Connectivity
Avoid frustration with otp with data only esim vietnam. Review updated OTP solutions in our Vietnam OTP SIM & eSIM guide.
✅ Want a smooth experience? Order your Vietnam eSIM with number now and receive instant QR delivery by email. Perfect for WhatsApp, Grab, and banking apps.
Part of Heera Travel Group – Explore more Vietnam tours at HeeraTravel.com