So you’ve landed in Vietnam! If you’re thinking of getting a eSim, make sure your phone is unlocked! This is very important and many travelers run into this problem after they purchase non-refundable eSims.
Some mobile carriers lock your phone:
- after a recent upgrade,
- as part of a contract,
- or as a default setting that was never removed.
If your phone is locked, you will not be able to activate a Vietnamese SIM or many eSIMs.
This becomes very frustrating if you’ve already paid for one.
What to do before you purchase:
- Call your wireless provider
- Ask if your phone is carrier unlocked
- If not, ask them to unlock it (temporarily or permanently)
Do this before your flight.
You Don’t Have to Buy a SIM at the Airport
Many travelers arrive with:
- roaming data from their home provider, or
- an international eSIM
So you can still get online, book a Grab, check maps, and reach your hotel first — then buy a local SIM later in the city.
In fact, SIM cards are often cheaper outside the airport.
Option 1 — Buy at the Airport (Convenient, but more expensive)
After customs, you’ll see SIM counters in the arrivals hall.
This is convenient because they set everything up for you immediately, but prices are usually higher than in the city.
Typical airport price: $23–$28 USD for a 30-day package.
Option 2 — Buy in the City Center (Cheaper, very easy)
You can visit any official telecom store in the city such as:
- Viettel Store
- Mobifone Store
- Vinaphone Store
These are everywhere in Hanoi, HCMC, and Da Nang. Prices are often lower, and plans may be better.
Search Google Maps for: “Viettel store near me”
Typical airport price: $18–$24 USD for a 30-day package.
What You MUST Have — Your Passport
To get a Vietnamese SIM with a local number, you are required to present:
✅ Your passport
Vietnam requires identity verification for all SIM cards.
The Identity Verification Process (Normal in Vietnam)
Here’s what happens at the store:
- You give the staff your passport.
- They start a live video call with an authorized telecom agent.
- You show your face on camera.
- The agent verifies that you match your passport photo.
- Your SIM is then activated and registered to you.
This is standard procedure.
Why a Local Vietnamese Number Is Useful
Even if your roaming or eSIM gives you internet, a Vietnamese number helps with:
- Registering for local services
- Shopping on Shopee and Lazada
- Receiving delivery calls from drivers
- Easier communication with some local businesses
- Local app registrations that prefer a Vietnam number
What to Check Before You Leave the Store
Before walking out, make sure:
- Data is working
- You know your Vietnamese phone number
- You understand how long the plan lasts (often 30 days)
