eSIM guide for visitors
Land in Vietnam already online.
I'm Vanie and I live here. Before you board, set up an eSIM so your maps, your Grab and your hotel messages work the moment the plane doors open.
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Step 1
Does your phone support eSIM?
Pick your phone. If it says yes, you're ready to shop. Phones bought from a carrier can be locked, so confirm that too.
Two quick checks on any phone
- Dial
*#06#. If you see a long number labelled EID, your phone has an eSIM. - Make sure it's carrier unlocked. Ask your home carrier if you're unsure. A locked phone rejects other networks' eSIMs.
- Update your software. Older versions can hide the Add eSIM option.
Step 2
How much data do you need, and where to buy it
Tell me your trip, get a rough number, then compare plans that cover at least that much.
7 GB
Look for a plan of 10 GB or more for 7 days.
A rule of thumb from daily habits, not a measurement. Wi-Fi at your hotel or café will lower it.
Prices and plan sizes change often, so check the live price on each provider's page before you buy. Choose a plan that lists Vietnam, and read whether it includes a phone number. Most travel eSIMs are data only.
Step 3
Install it at home, switch it on in Vietnam
Install on your home Wi-Fi before the flight. Menu names vary slightly by phone and software version.
- Open your confirmation emailYour provider sends a QR code, or an Install button if you buy on your phone.
- Go to Settings, then Mobile Service (or Cellular)Tap Add eSIM, then Use QR Code, and scan it from another screen or a printout.
- Name the line "Vietnam"It's easier to spot later. Keep your home line on for calls and bank codes if you need them.
- Leave the Vietnam line off until you landWhen you arrive, switch it on, set it as your Mobile Data line, and turn on Data Roaming for that line only.
- Open your confirmation emailKeep the QR code visible on a second screen, or have a printout ready.
- Go to Settings, then Network & internet, then SIMsTap Add eSIM (sometimes Download a SIM instead) and scan the QR code. Samsung phones call this Connections, then SIM manager.
- Name the line "Vietnam"Keep your home SIM active for calls and bank codes if you need them.
- Leave it off until you landIn Vietnam, turn the eSIM on, choose it for Mobile data, and enable Data roaming for it.
Arrival day
Your first hour
Airplane mode off
Switch on the Vietnam eSIM line and set it for mobile data.
Check you're online
Open a map or load any page. If nothing loads, turn data roaming on for the eSIM line, then restart your phone.
Tell your hotel
Message your hotel or host that you've landed and when you'll arrive.
Order your ride
Open Grab, check the fare before you confirm, and head into the city.
Questions
Before you buy
Will I get a Vietnamese phone number?
Usually not. Most travel eSIMs are data only, so you use WhatsApp, Zalo, FaceTime or similar apps to call and message. If you need a local number for deliveries or a local account, look for a plan that says it includes one.
Can I still get messages on my home number?
Yes, if your phone supports two lines. Keep your home SIM on for incoming texts and codes, and turn off its mobile data so nothing uses expensive roaming.
When does my plan start?
It depends on the provider. Many plans begin when the eSIM first connects to a network in Vietnam, and some begin when you install it. Read the plan's activation note before you buy.
Can I share my connection with my laptop or a friend?
Hotspot rules differ between plans. Check the plan details for tethering, especially if you plan to work from your laptop.
What if the QR code doesn't work?
QR codes usually work once. If it fails the first time, don't keep scanning. Try the manual setup details in your email, and contact the provider's support if that doesn't work.
Is a physical SIM at the airport better?
A physical SIM works on any unlocked phone and can include a local number. An eSIM saves time on arrival and needs no counter or queue. Pick based on whether your phone supports eSIM and whether you need a number.