🇻🇳 Vietnam eSIM Guide 2025: How to Stay Connected Without the Airport Hassle
Vietnam is one of the most connected countries in Southeast Asia — but for visitors, getting data at the airport can still mean long queues, tourist pricing, and confusion over which SIM to choose.
This Vietnam eSIM Guide 2025 explains how digital SIMs work, how to install them, which phones support them, and how to choose the best plan for your trip.
📱 What Is an eSIM (and Why Travelers Love It)
An eSIM is a built-in digital SIM that replaces the need for a plastic card. You simply scan a QR code and connect instantly — no passport, no store visit, and no waiting.
- ⚡ Instant setup: activated in 2–5 minutes via QR.
- 🌐 Wide coverage: uses major local networks — Viettel, MobiFone, and VinaPhone.
- 📞 Vietnam number (optional): useful for Grab, Zalo, and OTPs.
- 🔒 Safe & paper-free: nothing to lose, no ID registration.
⚖️ eSIM vs Physical SIM — What’s Better for Vietnam?
| Criteria | eSIM | Physical SIM |
|---|---|---|
| Activation | Scan QR, connect instantly | Manual registration at counter |
| Passport requirement | No | Yes |
| Risk of loss | None | Possible |
| Tethering | Yes | Yes |
| Where to buy | Online (QR delivery) | Airport / local shops |
For short-term trips or business visits, an eSIM saves time and money.
Locals who need monthly top-ups can still use physical SIMs, but for tourists, digital is simply easier.
📲 Supported Devices (2025 Update)
Most modern phones already include eSIM support. Check under Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM.
You can also view the full compatibility list and screenshots in our Device eSIM Setup Vietnam 2025 guide.
- Apple: iPhone XS / XR and newer
- Samsung: Galaxy S20–S24, Z Flip / Fold series
- Google: Pixel 4 and newer
- Oppo: Find X3+, Reno 8+, Reno 10+
- Xiaomi: 13, 13T, 14 Series and newer
- Vivo & Realme: selected 5G models (2023–2025)
🛍️ Where to Get an eSIM in Vietnam
1️⃣ Airport Counters — Fast, but the Priciest Option
Handy if you forgot to pre-order, but prices at Noi Bai or Tan Son Nhat airports can reach $25–$30 for a 10-day SIM.
English support is limited and queues are common during peak hours.
2️⃣ City SIM Shops — Slightly Cheaper, Still Requires ID
Local stores offer better prices than the airport (around 20–30% less), but still need your passport for registration.
Some only accept cash and the process takes 15–20 minutes.
3️⃣ Online eSIM Providers — The Smoothest Route
Buying online before you land is the easiest. You choose a plan, receive the QR by email, and activate when you arrive.
For reference, a 10-day MobiFone eSIM with a Vietnam number averages $6.90 online, compared to $10–$11 at Hanoi Airport.
⚙️ How to Install and Activate Your eSIM
- Buy your preferred eSIM plan online.
- Check your email for the QR code.
- Open Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM and scan the code.
- Label it “Vietnam eSIM” and enable Data Roaming after arrival.
- Restart your phone — you’re connected.
Tip: Add the eSIM one day before departure but only activate it after landing to ensure the full validity period.
💵 2025 Price Comparison: Airport vs City vs Online
| Plan | Details | Airport | City Shop | Online (Avg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Days • 3GB/day | MobiFone / VinaPhone, VN number | $10–11 | $8.5–9.5 | $6.9 |
| 15 Days • 5GB/day | Viettel, data-only | $21–23 | $18–20 | $13.5 |
| 20 Days • 4GB/day | MobiFone, VN number | $22–23 | $19–20 | $14.5 |
| 30 Days • 6GB/day | MobiFone, VN number | $26–28 | $22–24 | $18.5 |
Online pre-order gives verified coverage and 24/7 English support.
“I arrived in Da Nang late at night, turned off airplane mode, and my phone connected instantly. The QR had been sitting in my inbox all along — no kiosk, no queue.”
— Matteo B., Italy · July 2025
🌟 Recommended Vietnam eSIM Plans
- Vietnam eSIM 30 Days Ultimate Plan — 6GB/day, $17.90 (MobiFone, VN number)
- Vietnam eSIM 20 Days Best Plan 2025 — 4GB/day, $14.90 (MobiFone, VN number)
- Viettel eSIM for Tourists — 5GB/day, 15 days $13.50 / 30 days $18.90
❓ Quick FAQs
Can I use eSIM for OTP and local apps?
MobiFone and VinaPhone plans with Vietnam numbers support Grab, Zalo, and Shopee OTPs. Viettel eSIM is data-only.
Will eSIM affect battery life?
No difference compared to a physical SIM. Battery usage is identical.
When should I activate?
After landing in Vietnam to start the validity period correctly.
📣 Plan Your Connectivity
Looking for a ready-to-use option? Explore the Vietnam eSIM 30-Day Plan — instant QR delivery, secure checkout, and nationwide 4G/5G coverage.
Or browse other durations and data packages in our Best Vietnam eSIM Plans 2025 collection.
For remote destinations or mountain adventures, the Viettel eSIM for Tourists provides the most stable coverage and high-speed connection across Vietnam.
Support: WhatsApp +84 98 307 49 15 · LINE: anyaxiaoying · Email: info@govnsim.com
Part of Heera Travel Group – Explore more Vietnam tours at HeeraTravel.com.