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Vietnam Airport SIM Card Guide 2025: Compare Prices, Networks & Pickup Tips
🌏 Quick View: Buying a SIM card right at Vietnam airports is convenient, but there are big differences in price, speed, and flexibility. This in-depth guide compares Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone across Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang airports – with local tips and real 2025 price updates.
Why Buy a SIM Card at the Airport?
Most international travelers landing in Vietnam want instant connectivity for maps, Grab, messaging, and booking rides. Buying a Vietnam airport SIM card means you’re online within minutes of arrival – no roaming bills, no WiFi hunting.
- ✔️ Fast Activation: Most airport SIM kiosks activate in 2–5 minutes.
- ✔️ Passport Not Needed at All Booths: Most kiosks take a photo of your passport, but some vendors (especially eSIM providers) only require your QR code or phone.
- ✔️ Staff Speak Basic English: Especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh airports.
- ❌ Highest Prices: Airport prices are often 15–30% higher than city stores or online. See real price comparison below.
- ❌ Not All Plans Include Local Phone Number: Some airport SIM cards are data-only, some have phone numbers. Check before you pay.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want a local phone number for Grab, Zalo, or banking, be sure to ask before payment. Not all tourist SIMs include it!
Comparing Viettel, Vinaphone & Mobifone (Airport Kiosks)
Vietnam has three main mobile operators: Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone. Each has dedicated kiosks in all major airports, offering prepaid SIM and eSIM plans for tourists. Here’s how they compare for 2025:
| Network | Airport Data Plans | Price (VND) | Includes Phone Number? | Validity | SIM Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viettel | 5GB/day, 15GB/30 days, 120GB/30 days | 200,000–350,000 | Yes (most plans) | 7–30 days | Physical SIM, eSIM |
| Vinaphone | 5GB/day, 120GB/30 days | 200,000–350,000 | Yes (most plans) | 7–30 days | Physical SIM, eSIM |
| Mobifone | 4GB/day, 120GB/30 days | 200,000–350,000 | Yes (most plans) | 7–30 days | Physical SIM, eSIM |
- ✔️ Coverage: All three networks cover 95%+ of Vietnam, including rural & tourist hotspots.
- ✔️ Speed: Viettel and Vinaphone generally fastest, but Mobifone also reliable in cities.
- ✔️ Easy Top-Up: All accept physical recharge cards, mobile apps, or online.
- ⚠️ Real Data Limits: Most “unlimited” plans are actually daily high-speed data (e.g. 5GB/day), then speed reduced.
🧭 FYI: Actual prices at airports (as of July 2025):
Viettel: 250,000 VND/30 days (120GB); Vinaphone: 240,000 VND/30 days (120GB); Mobifone: 220,000 VND/30 days (120GB).
Source: verified July 2025 at Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang airport kiosks.
Viettel: 250,000 VND/30 days (120GB); Vinaphone: 240,000 VND/30 days (120GB); Mobifone: 220,000 VND/30 days (120GB).
Source: verified July 2025 at Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang airport kiosks.
Hanoi Airport: Where to Find SIM Kiosks
At Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, all three networks have official kiosks and resellers in both Terminal 2 (International) and Terminal 1 (Domestic). Here’s where to look:
- 🗺️ International Arrivals (T2): After baggage claim, SIM kiosks are right before you exit. Look for official Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone counters – they are clearly branded.
- 🗺️ Domestic Arrivals (T1): Kiosks are near the main exit and taxi counters. Smaller stalls also resell SIMs (sometimes at a markup – compare prices).
- 💡 Tip: Official kiosks issue you a VAT receipt. If you get a “pop-up” vendor with no branding, check plan details and get a receipt!
- 🕙 Hours: Most airport SIM counters are open 24/7.
Case Study: “How Long Does It Take to Get Online at Hanoi Airport?”
Jessica from the UK landed at 8:00 PM, went straight to the Viettel counter, paid 250,000 VND for a 30-day SIM with 120GB, and was online in 4 minutes. She used her phone number to register Grab and Zalo the same day. She compared with city shops the next day—airport was 30,000 VND higher, but much faster and less hassle.
Jessica from the UK landed at 8:00 PM, went straight to the Viettel counter, paid 250,000 VND for a 30-day SIM with 120GB, and was online in 4 minutes. She used her phone number to register Grab and Zalo the same day. She compared with city shops the next day—airport was 30,000 VND higher, but much faster and less hassle.
🚀 GoVnSIM Airport Pickup: Want to skip the line and guarantee your number is ready? GoVnSIM lets you order online and collect your SIM/eSIM at Hanoi airport, with English-speaking support. Plans and prices match real-time rates – no hidden fees!
Other Airports: Ho Chi Minh City & Da Nang
After Hanoi, the busiest international airports are Tan Son Nhat (SGN, Ho Chi Minh City) and Da Nang International (DAD). Both offer similar SIM card purchase experiences:
- 📍 Tan Son Nhat (HCMC): Kiosks for Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone immediately after customs. Prices are almost identical to Hanoi, with English-speaking staff and eSIM options. Expect to pay 220,000–350,000 VND for most tourist packages (physical SIM or eSIM, 7–30 days validity).
- 📍 Da Nang International: Official counters in arrivals lobby for all three networks. Many travelers say Da Nang airport staff are particularly helpful for eSIM activation (just scan a QR code, done in 2–3 minutes).
- ⏰ Pro Tip: Most airport kiosks open 24 hours, but staff may take short breaks late at night. If closed, try the main exit hall – “travel service” desks also sell official SIMs, sometimes at a small markup.
- 🧾 Receipts: Always ask for a VAT receipt with your purchase (required for warranty and support with the network).
Case Study: “eSIM at Da Nang Airport”
Rajesh (India) landed in Da Nang at 2am, found the Vinaphone eSIM counter open, paid 240,000 VND for a 120GB/30-day plan, received a QR code, and was online before leaving the baggage area. His phone number worked immediately for Grab, Zalo, and hotel check-in.
Rajesh (India) landed in Da Nang at 2am, found the Vinaphone eSIM counter open, paid 240,000 VND for a 120GB/30-day plan, received a QR code, and was online before leaving the baggage area. His phone number worked immediately for Grab, Zalo, and hotel check-in.
🛫 Prefer pre-order and zero stress? Order your GoVnSIM in advance, select airport pickup at SGN, DAD, or HAN, and get local English support. No upsell, no surprise fees. Plans match the actual network packages shown above.
Insider Tips: Saving Money & Avoiding Pitfalls
- 💳 Payment: Airports accept VND cash, cards (Visa/Mastercard), and sometimes USD. Small stalls may be cash-only.
- 🗓️ Plan Validity: Always double-check your plan duration. Most airport tourist SIMs are 7, 15, or 30 days.
- 🌏 Coverage for Off-the-Beaten-Track: Viettel has the broadest rural coverage, Vinaphone and Mobifone are nearly equal in urban/tourist zones.
- 🔁 Switch to eSIM: All three networks now support eSIM at the airport; just check if your phone is compatible. See GoVnSIM’s eSIM guide for more info.
- 🔓 Watch for Locked Phones: Airport staff can help test your SIM slot – but double-check your phone is unlocked before travel.
ℹ️ Most Frequent Question: “Can I top-up at the airport?”
✔️ Yes, but top-ups are easiest via mobile app or scratch cards sold in 7-Eleven, Circle K, or any convenience store in Vietnam.
✔️ Yes, but top-ups are easiest via mobile app or scratch cards sold in 7-Eleven, Circle K, or any convenience store in Vietnam.
Why Travelers Choose GoVnSIM for Airport Pickup
- ✅ Order Ahead, Pickup Instantly: Reserve your eSIM/SIM online. No paperwork, no waiting for staff or risking stock-outs.
- ✅ Transparent Pricing: What you see on govnsim.com is what you pay at pickup – no airport markup.
- ✅ Multi-Language Support: English, Chinese, Vietnamese assistance via WhatsApp/LINE. Help available 7am–11pm.
- ✅ All Major Airports: Pre-arranged pickup at Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang, and more. Option for hotel delivery if needed.
- ✅ Local Number for Grab, Zalo, Banking: All GoVnSIM plans include local Vietnamese number (unless you choose data-only).
- ✅ eSIM-Ready: 90% of modern phones (iPhone XR/XS and later, Pixel, Samsung S20+) are compatible. See full compatibility list.
Ready to pre-order? Book your SIM or eSIM now and enjoy stress-free airport arrival. All plans, prices, and support policies updated as of July 2025.
FAQs: Data, Validity & Airport SIM Pickup
- Q: Is the airport the best place to buy a SIM card in Vietnam?
A: If you need instant data and a local number upon arrival, the airport is fastest (but prices are a bit higher). For the absolute best prices, you can buy in the city or pre-order via GoVnSIM and pick up at the airport. - Q: Can I get an eSIM at the airport?
A: Yes, all three major networks (Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone) offer eSIM at official airport counters since late 2024. Bring your phone, scan a QR, and you’re done. - Q: What documents are needed?
A: Usually just your passport. Some airport vendors will activate with a photo or scan; GoVnSIM needs your name and passport number only for activation. - Q: Will I get a local Vietnamese phone number?
A: Yes, for all major airport SIMs and all GoVnSIM plans (unless you choose a data-only plan). - Q: Where can I top up?
A: Any convenience store or via network mobile app. GoVnSIM also supports remote top-up for customers.
Still have questions? Contact GoVnSIM on WhatsApp or LINE for free support in English, 中文, or Vietnamese.
➡️ Explore: For a full breakdown of eSIM types and airport compatibility, see our Vietnam eSIM with Phone Number: The Definitive Guide (2025).