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Damda Note · Southeast Asia · Vietnam · Travel planning

How to choose a Vietnam eSIM or SIM card: carriers, data allowances, and installation timing

For a Vietnam eSIM, first check whether your phone supports eSIM, then choose based on your trip length and total data needs. Official information lists a MobiFone plan with 50GB for 10 days at VND 150,000 and a Viettel plan with up to 200GB for 30 days at VND 150,000. Before installation, prepare a stable internet connection and the QR code or activation details sent by the carrier.

Outside the terminal at Da Nang International Airport, Vietnam
Photo: Chainwit. · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons (resized) · License
Key takeaways
  • MobiFone: 10 days, 50GB, 150,000 dong
  • Viettel 30 Days: Up to 200GB for VND 150,000
  • Check eSIM compatibility before installation

eSIM or Physical SIM: Which Should You Choose?

On compatible devices, you can activate an eSIM without removing or inserting a physical SIM.

  • An eSIM is a digital SIM embedded in your device.
  • According to Viettel, eSIMs and physical SIMs use the same network infrastructure.
  • Speed and call quality depend more on the plan and coverage area than on the type of SIM.
  • First, check whether your device is on the carrier's eSIM compatibility list.

How should you compare carriers and plans?

MobiFone lists the total data and domestic call allowance for the entire period, while Viettel lists the total allowance for the entire period.

Exterior of a MobiFone store in Vietnam
MobiFone offers data plans for travelers.Photo: Diane Selwyn · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons (resized) · License
eSIM Plan Comparison by Carrier (Based on Official Guidance)
ItemPeriodDataPrice
MobiFone travel plan10 days50GB150,000 dong
Viettel eSIM Plans30 daysUp to 200GB150,000 dong

How much data should I get?

Check both the travel period and how data is provided. Compare whether the data covers the entire period and whether domestic calls are included.

  • The MobiFone 10-day plan includes 50GB and 70 minutes of domestic calls.
  • Viettel eSIM plans offer up to 200GB per 30-day cycle.
  • MobiFone's travel product includes free access to related websites.
  • You can choose a plan based on whether you need it for short-term or long-term use.

Are there benefits for travelers arriving in Da Nang?

MobiFone announced a program offering Hi Vietnam eSIMs to international travelers arriving at Da Nang International Airport.

Arrivals area at Da Nang International Airport, Vietnam
eSIM information is available for travelers arriving in Da Nang.Photo: Dragfyre · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons (resized) · License
  • You must present a foreign passport and be over 18.
  • An eSIM-compatible phone and the Sun Paradise Land and Hi Vietnam apps are required.
  • After activation, 8GB of high-speed 5G data is provided for the first 24 hours.
  • You can purchase an additional Hi Vietnam follow-up plan afterward.
  • The Hi Vietnam 3-day plan includes 30GB, 50 minutes of domestic calls, and 5 minutes of international calls.

When and how do I install it?

When installing, connect to stable Wi-Fi or mobile internet and have the QR code or activation details sent by your carrier ready.

Exterior of a Viettel store in Vietnam
If you have trouble installing it, check your carrier's instructions.Photo: Vuong Tri Binh · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons (resized) · License
  1. On iPhone, open Cellular in Settings and select Add eSIM.
  2. Scan the QR code provided by your carrier and follow the on-screen instructions.
  3. On Android, go to Connections or SIM Manager in Settings and select Add eSIM.
  4. Scan the QR code and enter the verification code if prompted.
  5. Menu names and locations vary by manufacturer and operating system version.

Viettel also offers instant activation without a QR code on iOS devices. It applies to eSIMs purchased through the Viettel Tammi app, website or stores; check actual availability during purchase.

How can I view the price before payment?

For products with different validity periods, compare both the data allowance and validity period, not just the price. The table below compares the pricing structures of similarly priced products.

Dealdamda Calculator

How much is the difference for 30 days of use?

  • First payment for the MobiFone 10-day plan150,000동
  • Additional payment for the MobiFone 10-day plan150,000동
  • Additional payment for the MobiFone 10-day plan150,000동
  • Total when purchased separately450,000동
  • Viettel 30-Day Plan150,000동

With this itinerary, You save 300,000동.

Calculation basis: This compares paying for the MobiFone 10-day plan 3 times with paying once for the Viettel 30-day plan.

Offers you can use for this trip

KKdayPromotion
Up to 50%

Up to 50% off KKday SIMs and Wi-Fi worldwide

Applies to eligible SIM and Wi-Fi products worldwide.

Up to 50% off KKday SIMs and Wi-Fi worldwide

KKdayUp to 50%
Terms of use
View information source

Original information from KKday (kkday.com)

This offer has no stated end date and may be discontinued by the seller without notice.

Please confirm eligible products and payment conditions with the seller before purchase.

View the guide before use

View all offers from this brand · View all offers from this brand

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an eSIM Slower Than a Physical SIM?

According to Viettel, eSIMs and physical SIMs use the same network infrastructure. Speed and call quality vary by plan and service area.

Can I install an eSIM before arriving in Vietnam?

Installation requires a stable internet connection and a QR code or activation details. Check the purchased product's official instructions for the exact activation and service start times.

What should I do if I lose my QR code?

Viettel states that converted eSIMs require a reissued QR code from a store. You should also check the device requirements for installation.

Can You Install an eSIM on iPhone Without a QR Code?

Viettel offers automatic QR-free activation for iOS. Check whether your purchased eSIM and device are supported during activation.

How much data does the free Da Nang eSIM include?

The Hi Vietnam eSIM includes 8GB of high-speed 5G data for the first 24 hours after activation. Additional plans can be purchased afterward.

Source

This article was written after cross-checking the sources above. Prices and schedules may change, so check the official information before booking. Next review scheduled: December 24, 2026. View verification criteria

Revision history

  • November 9, 2026 — First published

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