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Best eSIM Providers for Traveling to Vietnam in 2023

Planning a trip to Vietnam? This guide walks you through everything you need to know about eSIM providers, from local options to travel-friendly choices.

Heading to Vietnam and wondering how to stay connected without the fuss of traditional SIM cards? You’re in the right place! This guide is your go-to resource for understanding eSIMs in Vietnam.

We’ll walk you through the essentials, from legal requirements to the pros and cons of local vs. global providers. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to make a smart choice for your connectivity needs while traveling or visiting Vietnam.

eSIM Regulations in Vietnam

If you’re considering using an eSIM in Vietnam, it’s crucial to understand the legal landscape and requirements. Vietnam has a fairly open policy when it comes to telecommunications, but there are some rules you should be aware of.

Firstly, the Ministry of Information and Communications regulates eSIM usage in the country. While travelers and visitors can easily purchase and activate eSIMs, you’ll need to provide some form of identification. Usually, a passport will suffice for this purpose.

Secondly, there are restrictions on the number of eSIMs one can activate using a single identification document. As of now, you can activate up to five eSIMs with one passport. This is to prevent fraudulent activities and ensure that the telecom services are used responsibly.

Lastly, it’s worth noting that all eSIM providers in Vietnam are required to comply with data retention laws. This means that your usage data will be stored for a certain period, typically six months, for legal and security reasons.

Understanding these regulations will not only keep you on the right side of the law but also help you navigate any administrative hurdles more efficiently.

Local Provider vs Global Travel eSIM Provider in Vietnam

When it comes to staying connected in Vietnam, you have two main options: local eSIM providers and global travel eSIM providers. Each comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks, so let’s break it down.

Local eSIM Providers

Pros:

Cost-Effective: Local providers often offer competitive rates, especially for data packages.
Better Coverage: Being local, these providers have extensive network coverage, even in rural areas.
Customer Service: Access to customer service in the local language can be a plus.

Cons:

Language Barrier: Information and customer service might not be readily available in English.
Limited Flexibility: Plans might be tailored more towards residents than travelers.

Global Travel eSIM Providers

Pros:

Convenience: You can purchase and activate these eSIMs even before you arrive.
Multiple Countries: One eSIM can work in multiple countries, useful if you’re visiting more than just Vietnam.
English Support: Customer service and information are usually available in English.

Cons:

Cost: These eSIMs can be more expensive than local options.
Coverage: While good in cities, coverage can be spotty in rural areas.

By weighing these pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that best suits your travel needs and preferences.

1. Airalo: eSIM Data plan

Airalo once again demonstrates that it has an excellent eSIM service.

190+ Countries – 600+ eSIM Plans

2. Alosim: eSIM Data plan

Alosim once again demonstrates that it has an excellent eSIM service.

140+ Countries – 150+ eSIM Plans

3. Holafly: eSIM Data plan

Holafly once again demonstrates that it has an excellent eSIM service.

190+ Countries – 180+ eSIM Plans

Top Local eSIM Providers in Vietnam

When it comes to local eSIM providers, Vietnam has several reputable options. Here’s a closer look at the top four:

Viettel

Viettel is one of the largest mobile carriers in Vietnam and offers a variety of eSIM data plans for tourists. Here are some of the plans available:

1GB for 7 days: This plan costs \$3.99 and gives you 1GB of data valid for 7 days.
3GB for 15 days: This plan costs \$9.99 and gives you 3GB of data valid for 15 days.
7GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$19.99 and gives you 7GB of data valid for 30 days.
15GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$29.99 and gives you 15GB of data valid for 30 days.
30GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$49.99 and gives you 30GB of data valid for 30 days.

You can also purchase a top-up plan if you need more data. Viettel’s top-up plans start at \$1.99 per GB.

All of Viettel’s eSIM plans for Vietnam are powered by 4G LTE, so you can be confident that you will have a fast and reliable connection wherever you go.

To purchase an eSIM plan from Viettel, you can visit their website or download their app. Once you have purchased a plan, you can activate it by following the instructions on the Viettel website or app.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using Viettel for eSIM in Vietnam:

Pros:

Viettel is one of the largest mobile carriers in Vietnam, so you can be confident that you will have good coverage.
Viettel’s eSIM plans are relatively affordable.
Viettel offers a variety of eSIM data plans to choose from, with different amounts of data and validity periods.

Cons:

Viettel’s customer support is not as good as some other eSIM providers.

Overall, Viettel is a good option for those looking for an affordable eSIM plan for Vietnam. However, it is important to be aware of the customer support before making a purchase.

Vinaphone

Vinaphone is another major mobile carrier in Vietnam and also offers a variety of eSIM data plans for tourists. Here are some of the plans available:

1GB for 7 days: This plan costs \$4.99 and gives you 1GB of data valid for 7 days.
3GB for 15 days: This plan costs \$12.99 and gives you 3GB of data valid for 15 days.
7GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$22.99 and gives you 7GB of data valid for 30 days.
15GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$39.99 and gives you 15GB of data valid for 30 days.
30GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$59.99 and gives you 30GB of data valid for 30 days.

You can also purchase a top-up plan if you need more data. Vinaphone’s top-up plans start at \$1.99 per GB.

All of Vinaphone’s eSIM plans for Vietnam are powered by 4G LTE, so you can be confident that you will have a fast and reliable connection wherever you go.

To purchase an eSIM plan from Vinaphone, you can visit their website or download their app. Once you have purchased a plan, you can activate it by following the instructions on the Vinaphone website or app.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using Vinaphone for eSIM in Vietnam:

Pros:

Vinaphone is one of the largest mobile carriers in Vietnam, so you can be confident that you will have good coverage.
Vinaphone’s eSIM plans are relatively affordable.
Vinaphone offers a variety of eSIM data plans to choose from, with different amounts of data and validity periods.

Cons:

Vinaphone’s customer support is not as good as some other eSIM providers.

Overall, Vinaphone is a good option for those looking for an affordable eSIM plan for Vietnam. However, it is important to be aware of the customer support before making a purchase.

MobiFone

MobiFone is the third largest mobile carrier in Vietnam and also offers a variety of eSIM data plans for tourists. Here are some of the plans available:

1GB for 7 days: This plan costs \$3.99 and gives you 1GB of data valid for 7 days.
3GB for 15 days: This plan costs \$9.99 and gives you 3GB of data valid for 15 days.
7GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$19.99 and gives you 7GB of data valid for 30 days.
15GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$29.99 and gives you 15GB of data valid for 30 days.
30GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$49.99 and gives you 30GB of data valid for 30 days.

You can also purchase a top-up plan if you need more data. MobiFone’s top-up plans start at \$1.99 per GB.

All of MobiFone’s eSIM plans for Vietnam are powered by 4G LTE, so you can be confident that you will have a fast and reliable connection wherever you go.

To purchase an eSIM plan from MobiFone, you can visit their website or download their app. Once you have purchased a plan, you can activate it by following the instructions on the MobiFone website or app.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using MobiFone for eSIM in Vietnam:

Pros:

MobiFone is one of the largest mobile carriers in Vietnam, so you can be confident that you will have good coverage.
MobiFone’s eSIM plans are relatively affordable.
MobiFone offers a variety of eSIM data plans to choose from, with different amounts of data and validity periods.

Cons:

MobiFone’s customer support is not as good as some other eSIM providers.

Overall, MobiFone is a good option for those looking for an affordable eSIM plan for Vietnam. However, it is important to be aware of the customer support before making a purchase.

Vietnamobile

Vietnamobile is the fourth largest mobile carrier in Vietnam and also offers a variety of eSIM data plans for tourists. Here are some of the plans available:

1GB for 7 days: This plan costs \$3.99 and gives you 1GB of data valid for 7 days.
3GB for 15 days: This plan costs \$9.99 and gives you 3GB of data valid for 15 days.
7GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$19.99 and gives you 7GB of data valid for 30 days.
15GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$29.99 and gives you 15GB of data valid for 30 days.
30GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$49.99 and gives you 30GB of data valid for 30 days.

You can also purchase a top-up plan if you need more data. Vietnamobile’s top-up plans start at \$1.99 per GB.

All of Vietnamobile’s eSIM plans for Vietnam are powered by 4G LTE, so you can be confident that you will have a fast and reliable connection wherever you go.

To purchase an eSIM plan from Vietnamobile, you can visit their website or download their app. Once you have purchased a plan, you can activate it by following the instructions on the Vietnamobile website or app.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using Vietnamobile for eSIM in Vietnam:

Pros:

Vietnamobile is one of the largest mobile carriers in Vietnam, so you can be confident that you will have good coverage.
Vietnamobile’s eSIM plans are relatively affordable.
Vietnamobile offers a variety of eSIM data plans to choose from, with different amounts of data and validity periods.

Cons:

Vietnamobile’s customer support is not as good as some other eSIM providers.

Overall, Vietnamobile is a good option for those looking for an affordable eSIM plan for Vietnam. However, it is important to be aware of the customer support before making a purchase.

Each of these providers has its own set of strengths and weaknesses, but they all offer reliable services that cater to different needs and preferences.

Popular Travel eSIM Providers That Offer eSIMs for Vietnam

Traveling to Vietnam doesn’t mean you have to rely solely on local providers. There are several global eSIM providers that offer convenient and flexible options for your trip. Here are some of the popular ones:

GigSky

GigSky offers a variety of eSIM data plans for Vietnam, with different amounts of data and validity periods. Here are some of the plans available:

1GB for 7 days: This plan costs \$6.99 and gives you 1GB of data valid for 7 days.
3GB for 15 days: This plan costs \$19.99 and gives you 3GB of data valid for 15 days.
5GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$29.99 and gives you 5GB of data valid for 30 days.
10GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$49.99 and gives you 10GB of data valid for 30 days.
20GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$69.99 and gives you 20GB of data valid for 30 days.

You can also purchase a top-up plan if you need more data. GigSky’s top-up plans start at \$1.99 per GB.

All of GigSky’s eSIM plans for Vietnam are powered by Viettel, one of the largest mobile carriers in Vietnam. Viettel offers good coverage throughout the country, so you can be confident that you will have a reliable connection wherever you go.

To purchase an eSIM plan from GigSky, you can visit their website or download their app. Once you have purchased a plan, you can activate it by following the instructions on the GigSky website or app.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using GigSky for eSIM in Vietnam:

Pros:

GigSky is a well-established eSIM provider with a good reputation.
GigSky offers a variety of eSIM data plans to choose from, with different amounts of data and validity periods.
GigSky’s customer support is good.

Cons:

GigSky’s prices are not the cheapest.
GigSky’s data plans are subject to fair usage policy (FUP).

Overall, GigSky is a good option for those looking for a reliable and reputable eSIM provider for Vietnam. However, it is important to be aware of the prices and FUP before making a purchase.

Holafly

Holafly offers a variety of eSIM data plans for Vietnam, with different amounts of data and validity periods. Here are some of the plans available:

5 days unlimited data: This plan costs \$19 and gives you unlimited data valid for 5 days.
7 days unlimited data: This plan costs \$27 and gives you unlimited data valid for 7 days.
10 days unlimited data: This plan costs \$34 and gives you unlimited data valid for 10 days.
15 days unlimited data: This plan costs \$47 and gives you unlimited data valid for 15 days.
20 days unlimited data: This plan costs \$54 and gives you unlimited data valid for 20 days.

You can also purchase a top-up plan if you need more data. Holafly’s top-up plans start at \$10 per GB.

All of Holafly’s eSIM plans for Vietnam are powered by Vietnamobile, one of the largest mobile carriers in Vietnam. Vietnamobile offers good coverage throughout the country, so you can be confident that you will have a reliable connection wherever you go.

To purchase an eSIM plan from Holafly, you can visit their website or download their app. Once you have purchased a plan, you can activate it by following the instructions on the Holafly website or app.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using Holafly for eSIM in Vietnam:

Pros:

Holafly is a well-established eSIM provider with a good reputation.
Holafly offers a variety of eSIM data plans to choose from, with different amounts of data and validity periods.
Holafly’s customer support is good.

Cons:

Holafly’s prices are not the cheapest.
Holafly’s data plans are subject to fair usage policy (FUP).

Overall, Holafly is a good option for those looking for a reliable and reputable eSIM provider for Vietnam. However, it is important to be aware of the prices and FUP before making a purchase.

Airalo

Airalo offers a variety of eSIM data plans for Vietnam, with different amounts of data and validity periods. Here are some of the plans available:

1GB for 7 days: This plan costs \$5 and gives you 1GB of data valid for 7 days.
3GB for 15 days: This plan costs \$10 and gives you 3GB of data valid for 15 days.
5GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$15 and gives you 5GB of data valid for 30 days.
10GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$20 and gives you 10GB of data valid for 30 days.
20GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$25 and gives you 20GB of data valid for 30 days.

You can also purchase a top-up plan if you need more data. Airalo’s top-up plans start at \$1.99 per GB.

All of Airalo’s eSIM plans for Vietnam are powered by Viettel, one of the largest mobile carriers in Vietnam. Viettel offers good coverage throughout the country, so you can be confident that you will have a reliable connection wherever you go.

To purchase an eSIM plan from Airalo, you can visit their website or download their app. Once you have purchased a plan, you can activate it by following the instructions on the Airalo website or app.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using Airalo for eSIM in Vietnam:

Pros:

Airalo is a good option for those looking for a budget-friendly eSIM provider.
Airalo offers a variety of eSIM data plans to choose from, with different amounts of data and validity periods.
Airalo’s customer support is good.

Cons:

Airalo’s eSIM plans are not as widely available as some other providers.
Airalo’s data plans are subject to fair usage policy (FUP).

Overall, Airalo is a good option for those looking for a budget-friendly eSIM provider for Vietnam. However, it is important to be aware of the FUP before making a purchase.

Alosim

Alosim offers a variety of eSIM data plans for Vietnam, with different amounts of data and validity periods. Here are some of the plans available:

1GB for 7 days: This plan costs \$4.99 and gives you 1GB of data valid for 7 days.
2GB for 10 days: This plan costs \$7.99 and gives you 2GB of data valid for 10 days.
3GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$9.50 and gives you 3GB of data valid for 30 days.
5GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$13 and gives you 5GB of data valid for 30 days.
10GB for 30 days: This plan costs \$21 and gives you 10GB of data valid for 30 days.

You can also purchase a top-up plan if you need more data. Alosim’s top-up plans start at \$1.99 per GB.

All of Alosim’s eSIM plans for Vietnam are powered by Viettel, one of the largest mobile carriers in Vietnam. Viettel offers good coverage throughout the country, so you can be confident that you will have a reliable connection wherever you go.

To purchase an eSIM plan from Alosim, you can visit their website or download their app. Once you have purchased a plan, you can activate it by following the instructions on the Alosim website or app.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using Alosim for eSIM in Vietnam:

Pros:

Alosim is a good option for those looking for a budget-friendly eSIM provider.
Alosim offers a variety of eSIM data plans to choose from, with different amounts of data and validity periods.
Alosim’s customer support is good.

Cons:

Alosim’s eSIM plans are not as widely available as some other providers.
Alosim’s data plans are subject to fair usage policy (FUP).

Overall, Alosim is a good option for those looking for a budget-friendly eSIM provider for Vietnam. However, it is important to be aware of the FUP before making a purchase.

These global providers offer the convenience of pre-trip planning and multi-country support, making them a viable option for many travelers.

Choosing the Right eSIM Provider in Vietnam

So, you’ve got options, but how do you pick the one that’s right for you? Here are some factors to consider:

Coverage

Urban vs Rural: If you’re sticking to cities, most providers will suffice. But if you’re venturing into rural areas, look for providers known for extensive coverage.

Cost

Budget-Friendly: If you’re on a budget, some providers offer economical plans with limited data.
Premium Plans: For those who need high-speed data and additional features, premium plans are available.

Flexibility

Short-Term vs Long-Term: Some providers offer plans tailored for short visits, while others have options for extended stays.

Additional Features

Roaming: If you plan to visit other countries, check if your eSIM provider offers affordable roaming packages.
Customer Support: Reliable customer service can be a lifesaver when you encounter issues.

Reviews and Recommendations

Online Reviews: Check out reviews from other travelers who have used eSIM services in Vietnam.
Personal Recommendations: If you know someone who has traveled to Vietnam, their insights can be invaluable.

By considering these factors, you can choose an eSIM provider that aligns with your travel needs and ensures a hassle-free experience.

Where Can I Buy an eSIM in Vietnam?

Wondering where to get your hands on an eSIM? Here are some options:

Airport Kiosks

Convenience: As soon as you land, you can find eSIM kiosks at international airports.
Quick Activation: Most airport kiosks can activate your eSIM on the spot.

Local Retail Stores

Variety: Stores of local providers like Viettel and Vinaphone offer a range of eSIM plans.
In-Person Assistance: Benefit from customer service to help you choose the right plan.

Online Platforms

Ease: If you prefer to sort things out before you travel, many providers offer online purchasing options.
Digital Delivery: The eSIM profile is sent to you via email, which you can then scan to activate.

Mobile Apps

User-Friendly: Apps like GigSky and Truphone allow you to purchase and activate eSIMs directly from your phone.
Instant Activation: As soon as your payment is processed, your eSIM is activated.

Hotels and Tourist Centers

Convenience: Some hotels and tourist centers offer eSIM services.
Limited Options: The range of plans may be limited compared to other outlets.

Each of these options has its own set of advantages and limitations, so choose the one that best suits your needs and comfort level.

FAQ

Do I need a local sim card in Vietnam?

No, you do not need a local sim card in Vietnam if you have an eSIM. You can simply purchase an eSIM from a reputable provider and activate it before your trip.

What are the different eSIM providers in Vietnam?

There are a number of eSIM providers in Vietnam, including Airalo, Alosim, Holafly, and Truphone. Each provider offers different data plans and prices, so it is important to compare them before making a purchase.

What is the best eSIM provider in Vietnam?

The best eSIM provider in Vietnam will depend on your budget, needs, and preferences. Some factors to consider include the price of the data plans, the validity periods of the plans, and the coverage of the carrier.

How do I activate an eSIM in Vietnam?

To activate an eSIM in Vietnam, you will need to download the eSIM provider’s app and follow the instructions. Once the eSIM is activated, you will be able to use it to make calls, send text messages, and use the internet.

Are there any restrictions on using eSIMs in Vietnam?

There are no major restrictions on using eSIMs in Vietnam. However, some providers may have fair usage policies (FUPs) that limit the amount of data you can use per day or month.