Vietnam SIM Cards: A Comprehensive Guide to Costs and Services

Traveling to a new country can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. One of the first things that travelers usually think about is how they will stay connected with their loved ones back home and access the internet while abroad. In Vietnam, one of the most popular options for staying connected is by purchasing a local SIM card. With a wide range of options available, it can be confusing to determine which SIM card is the best fit for your needs and budget. In this blog post, we will delve into the costs and services of Vietnam SIM cards, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Photo Source: Vietnamnet.vn

Standard Vietnam SIM Card Costs

Vietnam has a competitive mobile market, with four major network providers: Viettel, VinaPhone, MobiFone, and Vietnamobile. Each provider offers different packages and prices for their SIM cards, but there are some general costs that apply to all standard Vietnam SIM cards.

Prepaid Vietnam SIM Card Cost

Prepaid SIM cards are the most popular option for travelers in Vietnam. They offer flexibility and control over usage, as you can top up your credit whenever needed. The cost of a prepaid SIM card in Vietnam ranges from 50,000 VND (approximately $2 USD) to 100,000 VND (approximately $4 USD). This price includes the SIM card itself and some initial credit.

Postpaid Vietnam SIM Card Cost

Postpaid SIM cards are less commonly used by travelers, as they require a contract and monthly payments. However, if you are planning on staying in Vietnam for an extended period of time, a postpaid SIM card may be a more cost-effective option. The cost of a postpaid SIM card in Vietnam varies depending on the provider and package chosen, but it typically starts at around 200,000 VND (approximately $9 USD) per month.

How Much Do Data SIM Cards Cost in Vietnam?

Data SIM cards are a popular choice for travelers who need access to the internet on their devices. These SIM cards come with data-only plans and do not include calling or texting services. The cost of data SIM cards in Vietnam is generally higher than standard SIM cards, but they offer larger data allowances.

The price of a data SIM card in Vietnam ranges from 30,000 VND (approximately $1.5 USD) to 300,000 VND (approximately $13 USD), depending on the provider and package chosen. It is important to note that data SIM cards may have limited coverage in rural areas, so it is best to check with the provider before purchasing.

Vietnam SIM Card Costs for Specific Packages in Use

As mentioned earlier, each network provider in Vietnam offers different packages and prices for their SIM cards. Let’s take a closer look at the costs and services offered by the four major providers in Vietnam.

1. Mobile Services from Viettel

Viettel is the largest mobile network provider in Vietnam, with the widest coverage across the country. They offer both prepaid and postpaid SIM cards, as well as data-only SIM cards. Here is a breakdown of the costs and services for each type of SIM card:

Separate data SIMs (3G/4G):

2. Mobile Services from VinaPhone

VinaPhone is the second largest mobile network provider in Vietnam, with good coverage in major cities and tourist destinations. They offer both prepaid and postpaid SIM cards, as well as data-only SIM cards. Here is a breakdown of the costs and services for each type of SIM card:

Separate data SIMs (3G/4G):

3. Mobile Services from MobiFone

MobiFone is the third largest mobile network provider in Vietnam, with good coverage in major cities and tourist destinations. They offer both prepaid and postpaid SIM cards, as well as data-only SIM cards. Here is a breakdown of the costs and services for each type of SIM card:

Separate data SIMs (3G/4G):

4. Mobile Services from Vietnamobile

Vietnamobile is the smallest mobile network provider in Vietnam, with limited coverage in major cities and tourist destinations. They offer both prepaid and postpaid SIM cards, as well as data-only SIM cards. Here is a breakdown of the costs and services for each type of SIM card:

Separate data SIMs (3G/4G):

Guide to Buying Vietnam SIM Cards for Your Travels

Now that we have covered the costs and services of Vietnam SIM cards, let’s discuss some important tips to keep in mind when purchasing one for your travels.

Where to Buy SIM Cards in Vietnam?

SIM cards can be purchased at official stores of the network providers, as well as at convenience stores, airports, and tourist areas. It is recommended to buy from official stores to ensure authenticity and avoid any potential scams.

What to Prepare to Get Vietnam SIM Cards?

To purchase a SIM card in Vietnam, you will need to present your passport and fill out a registration form. This is a standard procedure for all foreign visitors, and it is necessary for the government to track phone usage in the country.

It is also important to note that some providers may require a local address to register the SIM card. If you are staying at a hotel, you can use the hotel’s address for registration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Vietnam offers a variety of SIM card options for travelers, with different costs and services to suit individual needs and budgets. Prepaid SIM cards are the most popular option, with prices starting at 50,000 VND (approximately $2 USD). Data SIM cards are also available for those who need internet access on their devices, with prices starting at 100,000 VND (approximately $4 USD).

When purchasing a Vietnam SIM card, it is important to consider the network coverage and packages offered by each provider. It is also recommended to buy from official stores to ensure authenticity and avoid any potential scams.

We hope that this comprehensive guide has provided you with all the information you need to make an informed decision when buying a SIM card in Vietnam. Stay connected and enjoy your travels!