Introduction
eSIMs are quickly becoming the easier way to connect to mobile networks in Vietnam, especially for international travel. Unlike the old plastic SIM cards, an eSIM is already built into your phone. There is nothing to insert. You just scan a QR code and you are connected. Simple as that. If you are hearing about eSIMs for the first time, or even if you have tried one before, you probably still have a few questions. That is exactly why we put this guide together. In this guide, we have answered the 30 most common questions people ask about using eSIMs in Vietnam. From how to buy one and which phones support them, to whether they are cheaper than roaming and how to set one up. We have kept the answers short, clear and easy to follow with no tech jargon and no confusing steps. So whether you are planning your next trip, switching to a new phone, or simply curious about how eSIMs work, you will find everything you need right here. Think of this as your quick traveler’s cheat sheet for Vietnam eSIMs. Let us make your next connection smoother, faster and much more convenient.
Table of Contents
- How to buy an eSIM for Vietnam?
- Which is the best eSIM for Vietnam?
- What should I look for when comparing different travel eSIMs for Vietnam?
- Do I need to provide any documents like a passport to buy a travel eSIM for Vietnam?
- Can I buy an eSIM for Vietnam in advance or should I wait until I arrive?
- How do I install and activate my international eSIM for Vietnam?
- Should I activate my travel eSIM before I leave or when I arrive in Vietnam?
- How do I activate my Vietnam eSIM using a QR code?
- What if I cannot scan the QR code for my Vietnam eSIM? Is there a manual installation method?
- How do I switch between my primary SIM and my travel eSIM on my phone in Vietnam?
- How do I make sure I am using the Vietnam eSIM for data and not my home plan to avoid roaming charges?
- What is a travel eSIM and how does it work for international trips to Vietnam?
- Why should I use an eSIM for Vietnam travel instead of my home carrier’s roaming plan?
- Is an eSIM cheaper than international roaming when visiting Vietnam?
- What is the difference between a Vietnam travel eSIM and a local physical SIM card?
- Can I use a Vietnam eSIM and my regular SIM card at the same time?
- Will I get a new phone number with a Vietnam travel eSIM?
- Can I still receive calls and texts on my original number while using a Vietnam eSIM for data?
- Do Vietnam travel eSIMs include calls and SMS, or are they data only?
- How much data will I need for my trip to Vietnam?
- Is my phone unlocked and compatible with Vietnam eSIMs?
- What is an eSIM card and how does it work in Vietnam?
- How do I activate an eSIM on my iPhone while visiting Vietnam?
- How can I transfer my eSIM to a new iPhone in Vietnam?
- Which smartphones are compatible with eSIM in Vietnam?
- How to transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android in Vietnam?
- How to delete eSIM from an iPhone used in Vietnam?
- How to set up eSIM on an iPhone while traveling to Vietnam?
- How to add eSIM to an iPhone while in Vietnam?
- Is my phone eSIM compatible for use in Vietnam?
1. How to buy an eSIM for Vietnam?
To buy a Vietnam eSIM, visit Mobimatter’s website and select a Vietnam travel data plan that fits your travel dates, budget and usage. Start by estimating how you use data on trips, including maps, rides, messaging, social uploads and video calls. Choose a data allowance and validity that match your itinerary so you do not waste days or gigabytes. Complete the secure checkout and you will instantly receive a QR code along with manual installation details in your email and dashboard. While on stable Wi Fi, add the eSIM to your device so it is ready to activate when you land. There is no physical SIM, no airport queue and no paperwork. You step off the plane and go online in minutes with predictable costs.
2. Which is the best eSIM for Vietnam?
The best Vietnam eSIM is the one matched to your specific travel pattern. If you are visiting for a few days and primarily use maps, messenger apps and ride hailing, a smaller package keeps costs tight without sacrificing reliability. If you will be shooting and sharing a lot of video, working remotely from cafes, or jumping on frequent video calls, choose a larger plan that removes the stress of hitting limits mid trip. Mobimatter curates strong Vietnam options with clear plan cards covering expected speeds, hotspot support and IP routing so you know what you are buying. Think about hotel Wi Fi quality, the number of devices you tether, and whether you will travel between cities. Pick the plan that delivers consistent speed and zero friction from day one.
MobiMatter Pick - Vietnam 20 GB
3. What should I look for when comparing different travel eSIMs for Vietnam?
Begin with the fundamentals like total data, validity days and price per gigabyte. Then look deeper at experienced drivers that matter on the ground. Confirm support for 4G or 5G where available, check if hotspot and tethering are allowed for laptops or tablets, and read any fair use notes that may reduce speeds after heavy usage. Coverage quality across major destinations like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang and Ha Long Bay is important if you are moving around. Installation clarity and responsive support also save time when you are tired from travel. Mobimatter presents these facts consistently so you can compare quickly. Rank options by your priorities, such as cost control, speed, broad coverage or easy setup, and choose with confidence.
4. Do I need to provide any documents like a passport to buy a travel eSIM for Vietnam?
No. You do not need to submit a passport, national ID or any physical documentation when you buy a Vietnam eSIM from Mobimatter. The entire process is digital, streamlined and built for travelers who value speed. All you provide is an email address so your QR code and manual installation details can be delivered instantly after payment. This avoids time consuming paperwork often required at local SIM shops and eliminates the risk of carrying documents around busy terminals. It is ideal for late arrivals, tight connections or simply when you want to prepare everything before departure. You purchase in minutes, add the profile on Wi Fi and arrive fully prepared.
5. Can I buy an eSIM for Vietnam in advance or should I wait until I arrive?
Always buy in advance so day one is smooth and efficient. With Mobimatter, your QR code arrives instantly, which lets you add the profile while you are on dependable home or office Wi-Fi. Leave the eSIM inactive until you land so you do not start the validity early. When the aircraft touches down, set the eSIM as your data line and connect within seconds. This approach helps you skip airport kiosks, avoid language barriers, sidestep higher terminal prices and prevent any downtime when you need maps or hotel directions. It also gives you time to label lines clearly and turn off data roaming on your home SIM before you go.
6. How do I install and activate my international eSIM for Vietnam?
Treat installation and activation as two separate steps. First, install the eSIM profile at home while connected to Wi Fi. On iPhone, open Settings, tap Cellular or Mobile Data, choose Add eSIM and scan the Mobimatter QR code or enter the SM DP+ server and activation code manually. On Android, open Settings, go to Network and Internet, find SIM Manager or Connections, tap Add eSIM and follow the scan or manual prompts. The profile downloads in under a minute and remains dormant. Second, after landing in Vietnam, set the eSIM as your default data line and turn off data roaming on your home SIM. Your phone will attach to local networks immediately and you can start using data.
7. Should I activate my travel eSIM before I leave or when I arrive in Vietnam?
Install before you depart and activate once you arrive. Most plans begin counting validity days when the eSIM first registers on a mobile network. If you turn it on at home to test it, you risk wasting days without any benefit. The smarter workflow is to add the profile in advance, verify it appears in your SIM list, and keep it switched off. After landing, connect to airport or hotel Wi Fi if necessary, toggle the plan on, make it your data line, and keep your home SIM active for calls and SMS. This preserves your budget, prevents accidental roaming and gives you a clean, predictable setup from minute one.
8. How do I activate my Vietnam eSIM using a QR code?
Activation by QR is quick when you follow a clear sequence. Connect your phone to stable Wi Fi so the download does not fail. On iPhone, open Settings, tap Cellular or Mobile Data, choose Add eSIM and select Use QR Code. On Android, open Settings, go to Network and Internet, open SIM Manager or Connections, and tap Add eSIM. Point your camera at the QR code in your Mobimatter email or dashboard. Your device will fetch the profile, show a preview and ask you to confirm. Label the plan clearly, for example Vietnam eSIM, so you can identify it later. After arrival, set it as your default data line. You should be online within moments, ready for maps, rides and messages.
9. What if I cannot scan the QR code for my Vietnam eSIM? Is there a manual installation method?
Yes. If scanning is inconvenient or your camera struggles, install manually using the details provided by Mobimatter. In your eSIM settings, choose Enter details manually, then input the SM DP+ server address and the activation code exactly as shown. Make sure you are connected to reliable Wi Fi so the profile download completes without interruption. Manual setup is helpful when you are installing from a reflective laptop screen, when printing the QR is not practical, or when lighting is poor. Once entered, the phone downloads the profile just like a scan would. Confirm your device is unlocked and eSIM capable first to avoid avoidable errors during setup.
10. How do I switch between my primary SIM and my travel eSIM on my phone in Vietnam?
Your device treats each plan as a separate line you can assign to different tasks. Open SIM Manager or Cellular settings and you will see your home SIM and the Vietnam eSIM. Set the Vietnam eSIM as your default data line so apps use local rates. Keep your home SIM active for voice and SMS if you want bank codes and family calls to reach you. You can also decide which line places outgoing calls by default, or have the phone ask each time. For cost safety, toggle off mobile data on your home line to eliminate background usage. Clear labels, like Home and Vietnam eSIM, help you avoid confusion while you are moving between cities.
11. How do I make sure I am using the Vietnam eSIM for data and not my home plan to avoid roaming charges?
Set your Vietnam eSIM as the default data line before you fly, then disable data roaming on your home SIM so apps cannot use it in the background. After landing, double check that the eSIM appears as the active data line and that your home SIM’s data toggle is off. If your device supports per line defaults for iMessage or RCS, verify those as well to keep messaging on the right line. You can run a quick test by loading a map and watching which line shows activity. These simple steps route your usage through local access, protect your budget and keep your primary number available for essential calls and texts.
12. What is a travel eSIM and how does it work for international trips to Vietnam?
A travel eSIM is a software based mobile plan that lives on a secure chip inside your phone. You buy the plan online, receive a QR code with optional manual details, and add the profile in your device settings while on Wi Fi. When you arrive in Vietnam, you switch the plan on and your phone attaches to compatible local networks for data service. There is no shipping, no plastic chip to handle and no store visit. Many phones can store multiple eSIM profiles, which is perfect for multi city or multi country trips. You gain flexibility, speed and privacy, with activation controlled by you in just a few taps.
13. Why should I use an eSIM for Vietnam travel instead of my home carrier’s roaming plan?
Roaming with a home carrier often means daily fees, small allowances and unpredictable overages. A Vietnam travel eSIM provides transparent pricing, a clear data amount and local network performance that keeps maps, rides and meetings responsive. You pay once, see your validity window and activate when it suits you. Keeping your home SIM active for voice and SMS while routing data through the eSIM protects you from background roaming. You also avoid finding and swapping physical SIMs after a long flight. The result is lower costs, fewer surprises and a simpler arrival day where everything just works.
14. Is an eSIM cheaper than international roaming when visiting Vietnam?
For most travelers, yes. International roaming can charge per day or per megabyte, which becomes expensive as you navigate with maps, post photos, back up media or jump on video calls. An eSIM plan gives you a fixed allowance and a defined validity period, which makes budgeting simple. You also benefit from local network performance that reduces timeouts and retries, saving data. Many travelers find that the price of a week on an eSIM is less than a single day of roaming at home carrier rates. Paying upfront for a plan sized to your needs removes guesswork and lets you focus on the trip, not the bill.
15. What is the difference between a Vietnam travel eSIM and a local physical SIM card?
A travel eSIM is completely digital and installs in minutes using a QR code or manual details. A physical SIM requires finding a shop, presenting identification, handling a tiny chip and swapping it into your phone. With eSIM, there is nothing to lose and no need to carry a SIM ejector tool. You can also keep your home SIM active for calls and SMS while using local data, which is ideal for receiving bank codes and staying reachable. If you are visiting multiple cities or countries, you can store several eSIM profiles and switch as you go. The eSIM route saves time, avoids paperwork and keeps your setup clean and flexible.
16. Can I use a Vietnam eSIM and my regular SIM card at the same time?
Yes. Most modern smartphones support one physical SIM and one eSIM simultaneously. This dual line setup is ideal for travel because you can keep your home number available for incoming calls and texts while routing all data through the Vietnam eSIM at local rates. In your settings, assign the eSIM as your default data line and decide which line handles outgoing calls. You can also enable the option to use the other line if the preferred line is unavailable. For cost control, turn off mobile data on your home SIM. This configuration gives you continuity with important contacts and predictable data costs throughout your trip.
17. Will I get a new phone number with a Vietnam travel eSIM?
Most Vietnam travel eSIMs on Mobimatter are data only and do not include a local phone number for traditional voice or SMS. For the majority of travelers, this is not a limitation because apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, FaceTime and other internet based tools work perfectly over data. If you still want voice capabilities, you can keep your home SIM active for receiving calls and messages or place calls using your preferred communication apps. If a local number is essential for business or logistics, check plan descriptions carefully for any voice features before purchase. For everyday travel needs, data only is simpler, cheaper and fully capable.
18. Can I still receive calls and texts on my original number while using a Vietnam eSIM for data?
Yes. Enable dual SIM mode, assign the Vietnam eSIM to mobile data and keep your home SIM active for voice and SMS. Turn off data roaming on the home SIM to prevent background charges. You can choose which line is used for outgoing calls by default or ask every time. This setup allows you to continue receiving bank codes, family messages and important calls on your original number while using local rate data for navigation, email and meetings. It is a practical approach that keeps you reachable without paying international data fees on your home plan.
19. Do Vietnam travel eSIMs include calls and SMS, or are they data only?
Most Vietnam travel eSIM plans on Mobimatter are data only, which keeps activation simple and pricing clear while still giving you full communication through apps. Voice and video calls over the internet work well on modern networks, and popular messaging platforms handle photos, files and group chats without issue. If you need traditional voice minutes or SMS for specific reasons, read each plan description closely for any included features or notes. For most travelers, a data only plan covers navigation, messaging, rides, streaming and video meetings, which makes it the most convenient and cost effective choice across the country.
20. How much data will I need for my trip to Vietnam?
Your ideal allowance depends on your habits and route. Light users who rely on maps, ride apps and messaging can often manage a week on 3 to 5 GB. Moderate users who browse frequently, share photos and watch short videos should consider 10 to 20 GB. Heavy users who work remotely, stream more content or join frequent video calls may want 30 GB or more. Review your current monthly usage to estimate a daily average, then consider that travel days often increase navigation and camera uploads. Choosing a slightly larger plan is usually better than rationing data or searching for top ups in the middle of a busy itinerary.
21. Is my phone unlocked and compatible with Vietnam eSIMs?
Your device must be both unlocked and eSIM capable. An unlocked phone accepts plans from any provider, while eSIM support depends on your model and software. Many recent iPhones, Google Pixel devices and Samsung Galaxy S or Z series phones support eSIM on global variants. To check quickly, open Settings and look for Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan in your Cellular or Network menu. If those options are missing, your device may not support eSIM or could be locked to a carrier. Contact your carrier for unlocking steps if needed. Verifying both unlock status and eSIM capability before purchase ensures smooth installation when you land.
22. What is an eSIM card and how does it work in Vietnam?
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card that resides on a secure component inside your phone. Instead of inserting plastic, you install a software profile that contains your plan details. After purchasing a Vietnam plan from Mobimatter, you receive a QR code and optional manual fields. While on Wi Fi, you add the profile in your device settings. Once in Vietnam, you activate the profile and your phone connects to compatible local networks for data service. There is no need for a SIM tool, no risk of losing a chip and no store visit. The experience is fast, modern and ideal for international travel.
23. How do I activate an eSIM on my iPhone while visiting Vietnam?
Activating an eSIM on your iPhone in Vietnam is quick and easy. Connect your device to Wi-Fi, then open Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data) and tap Add eSIM. Select Use QR Code, scan the Mobimatter QR code, and your iPhone will automatically download and install the plan. To stay organized, rename it to something clear like “Vietnam eSIM.” Before your flight, keep the eSIM installed but turned off to preserve your validity days. Once you land in Vietnam, go back to Settings → Cellular, set the Vietnam eSIM as your default data line, and leave your home SIM active if you want to receive calls or texts. Within moments, your iPhone will connect to local networks, giving you instant internet access.
24. How can I transfer my eSIM to a new iPhone in Vietnam?
Transferring your eSIM between iPhones is simple if you follow a two-step process. First, on your old iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data), select your eSIM plan, and tap Remove Cellular Plan to deactivate it. This ensures your eSIM isn’t linked to two devices at once. Next, log in to your Mobimatter dashboard and request a new QR code if necessary. On your new iPhone, open Settings → Add eSIM, scan the QR code, and label the plan (for example, “Vietnam eSIM”). Once activated, set it as your default data line. This method prevents conflicts and guarantees uninterrupted connectivity while switching devices.
25. Which smartphones are compatible with eSIM in Vietnam?
Most of today’s modern smartphones come with built-in eSIM support. All iPhones that display the Add eSIM option under Settings → Cellular are compatible. On the Android side, devices such as Google Pixel phones and Samsung Galaxy S and Z series (international models) also support eSIM. Many other flagship devices from leading brands now offer this functionality. Make sure your phone is unlocked before adding a new plan. To confirm compatibility, go to Settings → Network or Mobile Data and look for an option to Add Mobile Plan or Add eSIM. If you see it, your device is ready. Checking this beforehand ensures a smooth and hassle-free setup when you arrive in Vietnam. Refer to our guide of eSIM compatible devices.
26. How to transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android in Vietnam?
You cannot directly move an eSIM profile from iPhone to Android using device to device tools because the platforms manage profiles differently. The reliable method is to request a new QR code for your existing plan from your Mobimatter account. On your Android device, open Settings, navigate to Network and Internet, find SIM Manager or Connections, tap Add eSIM and scan the new code. If scanning is not convenient, use the manual entry option and type the SM DP+ server and activation code exactly as shown. After confirming the eSIM works on Android, remove the profile from your iPhone to keep your SIM list clean and avoid conflicts.
27. How to delete eSIM from an iPhone used in Vietnam?
Deleting an eSIM helps keep your device organized. Open Settings and tap Cellular or Mobile Data. Select the eSIM plan you want to remove, then tap Remove Cellular Plan and confirm. This deletes the profile from the phone but does not cancel any active plan with the provider. If you plan to reuse the plan on another device, make sure you can request a new QR code from your Mobimatter dashboard. Clearing unused or expired profiles reduces confusion, prevents accidental activation and frees space for future travel eSIMs you might add for other destinations during your journey.
28. How to set up eSIM on an iPhone while traveling to Vietnam?
If you’re traveling to Vietnam, you can easily set up your eSIM before or after you arrive, as long as you have a Wi-Fi connection. Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi, open Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data), and tap Add eSIM. Then scan the Mobimatter QR code or manually enter the SM-DP+ server and activation code provided. Label the plan clearly, for example “Vietnam eSIM”, and set it as your default data line. Once you land, your iPhone will automatically connect to a compatible local network. To keep your home number available for calls and texts, keep your physical SIM active for voice and SMS but make sure data roaming is turned off on that line.
29. How to add eSIM to an iPhone while in Vietnam?
The in country flow mirrors what you would do at home. Make sure you are on stable Wi Fi so the profile download completes smoothly. Open Settings, choose Cellular or Mobile Data, tap Add eSIM and select Use QR Code. Scan the code from your Mobimatter email or dashboard, confirm the prompts and label the plan clearly. If scanning is not possible, choose Enter Details Manually and type the SM DP+ server and activation code exactly as provided. Once the plan is added, designate it as your data line and verify that the data toggle on your home SIM is off to prevent roaming charges.
30. Is my phone eSIM compatible for use in Vietnam?
Compatibility comes down to two quick checks. First, confirm your phone is unlocked by your home carrier so it can accept new plans. Second, open Settings and look for an option that says Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan in your cellular or network menu. If the option appears, your device supports eSIM. If it does not, your model might not include eSIM capability or it may be restricted by carrier software. Travelers using Vietnam eSIM plans follow the same on device steps described throughout this guide. Verifying unlock status and eSIM support before purchase ensures a smooth, stress free installation and a connected start to your time in Vietnam. Here's our guide of eSIM compatible devices for a detailed list.