Viettel eSIM for Vietnam: How to Get Online Instantly

Picture this: You’ve just stepped off the plane in Vietnam. The air is warm, the scent of pho is wafting through the terminal, and your adventure is just beginning. But before you dive into bánh mì and motorbike chaos—you need one thing fast: a working internet connection.

Why? Because you’ll need it to:

• 📍 Navigate unfamiliar streets
• 🛺 Book Grab rides or food delivery
• 📸 Share your epic moments in real time
• 💬 Stay in touch with family, coworkers, or travel buddies
• 🔐 Avoid sketchy public Wi-Fi

That’s where this guide comes in.

Whether you’re a digital nomad, a business traveler, or just here to live your best street-food-filled life, we’ll show you exactly how to get online in Vietnam with Viettel—the country’s #1 mobile network—using either a physical SIM or the much more convenient eSIM (our top pick, for reasons you’ll see soon).

🧠 GOHUB Tip: If you want to skip airport kiosks, passport scans, and language barriers, a pre-installed Viettel eSIM from GOHUB or a trusted reseller is the easiest path to stress-free connectivity. You’ll be online before your baggage even hits the carousel.

I. Why Viettel Is Your Best Bet in Vietnam

If you’re asking, “Which network should I choose in Vietnam?”—the answer from locals, expats, and seasoned travelers is almost always the same: Viettel.

And for good reason. Here’s why Viettel stands out as the top mobile provider for travelers:

Unbeatable Coverage—Even in Remote Corners

Viettel’s network covers 99% of Vietnam’s population, with strong 3G/4G (and even 5G in some cities).
Whether you’re sipping egg coffee in Hanoi, hiking in Sapa, sailing through Halong Bay, or motorbiking the Ha Giang Loop—you’ll stay connected.

🧠 GOHUB Tip: We’ve personally tested Viettel SIMs and eSIMs from north to south Vietnam—and the coverage rarely disappoints, even in mountain villages or beach towns where other networks drop off.

Fast, Reliable Speeds

• Average 4G LTE download speed: ~53 Mbps
• In big cities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang): 60+ Mbps
• 5G rollout active in economic hubs: up to 1 Gbps

Many travelers say Viettel speeds are better than what they get back home—even while uploading Reels from a moving train.

Built for Travelers (Kind Of…)

Viettel technically offers tourist-specific plans, both as physical SIMs and eSIMs. But (and it’s a big but), their official website and app aren’t foreigner-friendly:

• ❌ Online payments often fail for foreign cards
• ❌ Identity verification (passport upload) is buggy
• ❌ Support is limited for non-Vietnamese speakers

So while Viettel’s network is gold, their online purchasing experience isn’t—which is why most smart travelers go through trusted resellers or platforms like GOHUB, where setup is seamless, support is multilingual, and no passport upload is needed.

🥇 Bottom Line: Viettel = Best Coverage + Best Speed

But don’t rely on the official site to buy it.
You’ll get the same network (without the headaches) when you buy a Viettel eSIM through GOHUB or a recommended third-party provider.

II. Physical SIM vs. eSIM in Vietnam: Which One’s Right for You?

Let’s break it down simply—because yes, you can get connected either way in Vietnam. But depending on your travel style, one might be way better for you.

Here’s the friendly showdown:

Option 1: Physical SIM Card

✅ Pros:

• Widely available at airports, Viettel stores, and convenience shops
• Usually includes a local Vietnamese number (great for calling restaurants or delivery apps)
• Staff often help install and activate it for you

❌ Cons:

• You’ll have to swap out your original SIM—and risk losing it
• Requires ID/passport at official stores (KYC)
• You need to buy it in person, which may not be ideal after a 12-hour flight

Option 2: eSIM (GOHUB Recommends This!)

✅ Pros:

• 100% digital – no plastic card, no airport lines, no SIM swapping
• Buy online, receive via email, and install before your flight
• Often no ID required when bought through resellers like GOHUB
• Use dual SIM mode – keep your home number + use Viettel data at the same time
• Instant activation: connect as soon as the plane lands

❌ Cons:

• Requires an eSIM-compatible and unlocked phone
• Usually data-only (no Vietnamese number for calls/SMS)
• Can’t usually be topped up or extended – once it’s done, it’s done
• Needs Wi-Fi for initial setup (at home or in transit is best)

GOHUB Tip: Not Sure if Your Phone Supports eSIM?

• Dial *#06#
• If you see a 32-digit EID number, your phone supports eSIM!
  (Most iPhones from XS and up, recent Samsung Galaxy/Google Pixels are good. Avoid Chinese-market iPhones – some lack eSIM.)

 Verdict: Go eSIM If You Want…

• To land and go—no waiting at airport booths
• To skip passport/KYC steps
• Reliable high-speed data with zero hassle
• A smooth experience that just works

GOHUB eSIMs give you full access to Viettel’s network with none of the red tape. Preload before takeoff, connect upon arrival, and get exploring.

III. How to Get a Physical Viettel SIM Card in Vietnam

(For the SIM swappers among us…)

If you still prefer the traditional route or need a local Vietnamese phone number (for business, local registrations, or specific apps), a physical Viettel SIM is a solid choice. Just know: it’s not always the most traveler-friendly option.

Here’s what to expect 👇

📍 Where to Buy a Viettel SIM

Airport Arrival Halls (Most Convenient)

• Airports like Hanoi (HAN), Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), and Da Nang (DAD) all have Viettel booths or mobile SIM vendors in the arrivals area.
• Most tourists grab their SIM here on the spot.
• But! Some booths only sell physical SIMs, and may not support eSIM activation.

Official Viettel Stores

• Found in most cities and even towns
• You’ll get official pricing and a better selection of plans
• Staff will usually help with installation and setup
• Requires passport for identity verification

Convenience Stores & Mini-Marts

• Chains like Circle K, Family Mart, VinMart often sell SIM cards at the counter
• Limited help with setup
• Still need ID to activate

What It Costs

• Tourist SIMs are affordable and usually prepaid (no surprise bills)
• Plans often include:
  • Daily high-speed data (500MB, 1GB, 2GB or 5GB/day)
  • OR a fixed data package (e.g., 15GB for 30 days)
• Prices range from $5–$15 USD, depending on plan and where you buy it

GOHUB Tip:

Buying a SIM at the airport is the fastest—but not always the cheapest. If you want a bit more flexibility (or to avoid showing your passport), consider going eSIM instead.

What You’ll Need

• Your passport (for KYC verification)
• An unlocked phone
• A bit of patience if you’re doing this after a long-haul flight

TL;DR: Getting a physical SIM is doable, but the process includes ID checks, store visits, and SIM swapping hassles.
If you value speed, ease, and digital-first travel—GOHUB’s eSIM options let you skip all that.

IV. Getting a Viettel eSIM for Vietnam: The Digital Path (And Why It’s Better)

If you’re the kind of traveler who’d rather scan a QR code than stand in a kiosk line—then a Viettel eSIM is your best friend in Vietnam. Especially if you grab it through a reputable third-party reseller (like GOHUB 👋).

Here’s how to get set up—fast, easy, no passport needed.

First, a Quick Heads-Up:

While Viettel does officially offer eSIMs, their own website and app are…not great (for non-Vietnamese users at least).
Common complaints include:

• ❌ Foreign card payments failing
• ❌ Errors uploading passport photos
• ❌ Clunky, untranslated forms
• ❌ Multiple failed attempts with no support

So what’s the workaround?

The Smart Way: Third-Party eSIM Resellers

GOHUB offers Viettel eSIM plans without the headaches—no passport upload, no payment issues, and no airport stress. Just scan, activate, and go.

How It Works:

1. Buy your eSIM online
2. Receive a QR code via email (usually instantly)
3. can the code to install the eSIM profile
4. Turn it on when you land in Vietnam—you’re online within minutes

Why Travelers Love This:

• No passport / KYC needed
• No Vietnamese payment card required
• No waiting at the airport
• Set it up before you even board your flight

Cost & Plan Overview

• Short trip (7–10 days): from $6.40 USD
• 15–30 day plans: around $13.90–$19.90 USD
• Plans often include daily high-speed data (e.g., 5GB/day) or a total data cap
• Most allow hotspot/tethering

🔥 GOHUB Tip: Every eSIM on GOHUB is handpicked for strong performance, transparent pricing, and zero hidden fees.

Why Preload Before Your Trip?

• ✅ You can install the eSIM while on home Wi-Fi
• ✅ You’ll connect instantly upon arrival—no need to hunt for kiosks or Wi-Fi passwords
• ✅ You avoid airport SIM price inflation

Some resellers suggest installing 15–30 days before your flight. Just don’t activate or turn on roaming until you land in Vietnam.

⛔ Don’t delete the eSIM after installation!
⚠️ Important: Don’t delete your eSIM after installing it! Most tourist eSIMs are single-use, and once deleted, they can’t be recovered or reused.
👉 Here’s what actually happens if you delete your eSIM (and how to avoid it).

V. Understanding Your Viettel eSIM: What You Gain (and What You Don’t)

Most Viettel eSIMs for travelers—including those sold by GOHUB—are data-only, which is perfect for 90% of your trip. But it’s good to know exactly what that means, so you’re not caught off guard.

What You Do Get:

• High-speed mobile data across Vietnam (even in rural areas)
• Full access to apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, Viber, Skype for calls and messages
• The ability to keep your primary SIM active for calls/SMS while using your eSIM for data (dual SIM mode)
• Hotspot/tethering support with most plans

What You Don’t Get (with most tourist eSIMs):

• A Vietnamese phone number
• The ability to make standard voice calls or send SMS via the mobile network
• Support for recharging or extending the same eSIM (they’re typically one-time use)

So When Would You Need a Local Number?

A Vietnamese number might be useful if:

• You’re registering for local services like Shopee, banking, or food delivery apps
• Hotels or tour providers prefer to call you directly
• You’re staying long-term and need a more “local” presence

But for most tourists? Data-only is more than enough. All your communication will likely run through WhatsApp, Telegram, or Messenger anyway.

🧠 GOHUB Tip: You can keep using your original WhatsApp number, contacts, and chat history without changing a thing. Your eSIM just gives you the internet to keep it all running.

VI. Essential Tips for eSIM Installation, Activation & Troubleshooting

(a.k.a. What to Do Before and After You Land in Vietnam)

eSIMs are magical—when installed correctly. Follow these simple steps to make sure your Viettel eSIM (via GOHUB or other resellers) works perfectly from the moment you touch down.

Before You Travel

✅ Check Device Compatibility

• Dial *#06# on your phone
• Look for a 32-digit EID number — if it’s there, your phone supports eSIM
• Make sure your device is unlocked (not locked to a carrier)

🧠 GOHUB Tip: iPhones from mainland China, Hong Kong, or Macao may not support eSIM—even if they’re new.

✅ Buy & Install Early

• Buy your eSIM before your trip from GOHUB or a trusted source
• Install the eSIM profile while connected to stable Wi-Fi (at home or in transit)
• You’ll receive a QR code via email—just scan it in your phone’s cellular settings

🚫 Don’t turn on the line or enable roaming until you land in Vietnam
📅 Some eSIMs start counting validity when you install; others when you activate. To be safe, install before, activate upon arrival

Upon Arrival in Vietnam

1. Turn ON the eSIM line in your phone’s settings
2. Set the eSIM as your mobile data source
3. Enable data roaming for the eSIM
4. Double-check APN settings:
   • APN = v-internet
   • Leave username/password blank
5. Wait a few minutes (up to 30) for the network to connect

📶 While Using the eSIM

• Daily data limit? Plans often offer e.g. 5GB/day, which resets at 11:59PM (GMT+7)
• To check usage:
  • Look in phone settings (Mobile Data or SIM Usage)
  • Some providers allow you to check balance via website or SMS (e.g., text KTTK to 191—but replies are in Vietnamese)
• Want to hotspot? ✅ Most Viettel eSIM plans via GOHUB support tethering

⚠️ Never delete your eSIM profile once installed—it’s usually single-use
👉 Here’s what really happens if you delete it.

🧯 Troubleshooting Tips

If your eSIM isn’t working:

• Double-check that data roaming is ON
• Ensure APN is set to “v-internet”
• Try restarting your phone

Still stuck?
📞 Contact the reseller’s support (e.g., GOHUB via email or WhatsApp)
🎯 Include:

• Your order number
• Phone model
• Current location
• Screenshots of any error messages

🧠 GOHUB Tip: If you ever get tempted to “delete and reinstall,” don’t—reach out to support first. We’re here 24/7 to help travelers stay connected stress-free.

VII. Quick Review of Viettel eSIM Providers

(And Why GOHUB Keeps It Simple)

If you search online for a Viettel eSIM, you’ll find plenty of options—some great, some… not so much. While they all tap into Viettel’s excellent network, the experience, pricing, and support can vary wildly.

Here’s a look at what’s out there—and why GOHUB stands out:

💼 Common Third-Party Providers

These are a few names travelers may come across:

• Airalo – Global brand, decent UX, but pricing tends to be higher
• Gigago – Vietnam-based, competitive plans, some language barriers in support
• MicroEsim – Fast delivery, clear plans, but limited refund options
• Vietnam-visa.com – Offers eSIMs as an add-on to visa services

🧠 Traveler Tip: Always check reviews! Some resellers promise instant QR delivery but actually email codes hours later.

💎 Why Travelers Prefer GOHUB

🧠 GOHUB Tip: Unlike generic marketplaces, GOHUB is 100% traveler-focused. Every plan we sell is tested by real travelers, includes clear setup instructions, and comes with multilingual support. No stress, no guesswork—just reliable, affordable data on Vietnam’s best network.

VIII. Conclusion: Choose the Best Connection for Your Vietnam Trip

Staying connected in Vietnam shouldn’t be a hassle—and with Viettel’s powerhouse network, it really doesn’t have to be.

Whether you go with a physical SIM or a digital eSIM, the key is choosing what fits your travel style:

• Short trip? Go with a GOHUB Viettel eSIM—install before you fly, connect instantly on landing.
• Need a local phone number? A physical SIM might make more sense—but be ready to show your passport and find a store.
• Work + play traveler? Use dual SIM mode: keep your home SIM for calls and your eSIM for blazing-fast data.
• Hate airport queues and forms? Yeah… definitely eSIM.

💡 TL;DR – Why GOHUB Recommends eSIM:

• No lines, no paperwork
• Instant delivery + activation
• Works across Vietnam—even in the mountains
• Powered by Viettel, Vietnam’s #1 network
• Fully refundable if it doesn’t work (yes, really)
• 24/7 support from a team that actually travels

🌐 Ready to get your Vietnam eSIM?
👉 Explore GOHUB’s Viettel eSIM plans here — tested, trusted, and ready when you are.