Your Essential Guide to eSIM in Vietnam (2025 Update)

Vietnam eSIM has become the smart choice for travelers, expats, and anyone who needs reliable mobile connectivity in Vietnam. As eSIM technology rapidly replaces physical SIM cards, understanding how eSIM works and how to use it in Vietnam can help you avoid hassles, save time, and enjoy a smoother journey. In this ultimate guide, you’ll find everything you need to know: how eSIM works, supported devices, the top network providers, plan types, step-by-step setup, and real tips from seasoned travelers. We also clarify the difference between eSIMs with a Vietnamese number and data-only options, so you can pick what fits your trip best.

What is an eSIM & Why Should You Use One in Vietnam?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into your phone or device. Instead of inserting a plastic SIM card, you scan a QR code provided after purchase and your plan activates instantly. No more hunting for SIM shops at the airport, losing tiny SIM tools, or worrying about compatibility. In Vietnam, eSIM is widely supported by leading mobile networks like Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone.

• Convenience: Buy and activate online, often before your flight lands.
• Instant access: Scan a QR, and you’re connected—no physical SIM swap needed.
• Supports multiple numbers: Great for dual-SIM travel or keeping your home number for banking/WhatsApp.
• Eco-friendly: No more single-use plastic cards.

Whether you’re visiting Vietnam for a week or a year, using an eSIM saves you time, effort, and even money.

How Does a Vietnam eSIM Work?

Vietnam eSIM process: Buy online → Get QR code → Scan → Activate → Connect!

1. Buy a Vietnam eSIM online (see GoVnSIM Shop for plans).
2. Receive QR code by email (usually within 1-5 minutes, 24/7 automated delivery).
3. Scan QR code with your device (works with most modern smartphones).
4. Choose your plan (data only, or data + Vietnamese phone number).
5. Activate and start using instantly! Full coverage in all major cities and tourist hotspots.

Top Benefits of Using eSIM in Vietnam

• Immediate activation: No waiting for delivery, and no need to find a SIM store in Vietnam.
• Multiple plans: Choose between tourist data-only, or eSIM with a local phone number for calls/SMS & OTPs (banking, Grab, etc.).
• Easy renew/top up: Top up online or via WhatsApp/LINE, perfect for longer stays.
• Local support in English: Get real help if you have issues .
• Keep your original SIM: Dual-SIM devices let you keep your home country number for WhatsApp, banking, etc.
• Zero plastic waste: All digital, eco-friendly.

Vietnam eSIM Providers & Coverage

Vietnam is well-covered by three major mobile networks, all supporting eSIM:

• Viettel – Widest 4G/5G coverage, excellent speed nationwide.
• Mobifone – Great call quality, reliable for OTP/SMS.
• Vinaphone – Popular in cities, solid performance.

All GoVnSIM eSIM plans use official, licensed networks—meaning you get local speeds and reliability, not a “roaming” SIM that might slow down or block key services.

Types of Vietnam eSIM Plans

• Data-Only eSIM: Cheapest, for tourists who only need internet (maps, chat, social media). No local phone number.
• eSIM with Vietnamese Number: Ideal for longer stays, lets you make/receive calls, SMS, register Grab/Zalo/bank, and receive OTP.
• Unlimited/Limited Plans: Some eSIMs offer true unlimited data, while others have a daily GB limit then slow to 3G
• Long-term eSIM for Expats: Valid from 30 to 365 days, renewable, KYC-compliant, and easier for bank/utility registration

How to Buy & Activate Vietnam eSIM (Step-by-Step)

1. Go to GoVnSIM Shop and select the eSIM plan you want (data-only or with number).
2. Complete payment (all major cards, PayPal, Apple Pay supported).
3. Submit passport photo (required by law for KYC—no need to go to a shop!).
4. Receive eSIM QR code by email (usually within minutes).
5. Scan the QR code using your device’s camera in Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM.
6. Choose your eSIM as the main data line in your device settings.
7. Connect instantly on Viettel/Mobifone/Vinaphone network!

Vietnam eSIM vs Physical SIM vs Pocket WiFi

Is eSIM Legal and Safe in Vietnam?

Yes! Vietnam officially supports eSIM on major networks, and the government has strict KYC (identity verification) for SIM and eSIM registration. This means your eSIM is both legal and secure.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnam eSIM

5 Practical Tips for Smooth eSIM Experience in Vietnam

• 1. Activate eSIM on WiFi: For fastest results, activate your eSIM while connected to a strong WiFi (hotel/airport) before heading out.
• 2. Keep your original SIM for roaming/WhatsApp: Most devices let you use both numbers—ideal for banking and international SMS.
• 3. Always save your QR code: If you need to re-install your eSIM (e.g., after phone reset), you’ll need the QR or activation code again. Save your welcome email!
• 4. For Grab, Zalo, banking, choose a plan with Vietnamese number: Data-only plans can’t receive OTP.
• 5. Ask for help: The GoVnSIM team supports customers via WhatsApp, LINE, and Email in English, Chinese, and Vietnamese.

Case Study: How Anna Used Vietnam eSIM for a Worry-Free Trip

Anna, a solo traveler from Germany, arrived at Hanoi airport late at night:

“I pre-ordered my Viettel eSIM with phone number from GoVnSIM before my flight. After landing, I connected to airport WiFi, scanned my QR code, and was online in 2 minutes. I called my homestay, used Grab, and even registered MoMo for food delivery—no Vietnamese needed! Support was quick and friendly when I asked about extending my plan for another week.”

Want more stories? See verified customer feedback here.

How Does a Vietnam eSIM Work?

Vietnam eSIM Journey: Buy online → Receive QR code → Scan & activate → Choose plan → Stay connected

Explore More on Vietnam eSIM

• Vietnam eSIM with Phone Number: Who Should Use?
• Data-Only Viettel eSIM: Pros & Cons
• eSIM vs Pocket WiFi: What’s Better for Travelers?

Ready to Try Vietnam eSIM? Get Support from Real People at GoVnSIM