1. Calling in Vietnam
2. Mobile operators
3. Viettle SIM cards
4. Buy SIM card in Vietnam
5. Way2go tourist SIM card
6. Registration of SIM card
7. Internet in Vietnam
6. FAQ + Tips for calling
You can call and use the Internet in Vietnam just as well as at home.
Vietnam as a rapidly developing and modernizing country and offers a wide network of mobile call coverage. You can call practically anywhere and anytime. The only exceptions are very remote places (e.g. in the north), for example in the mountain areas, where you may have a problem with the signal and mobile internet. Vietnam also offers several proven and large mobile operators with a wide range of services. The biggest mobile operator in Vietnam is Viettel.
It is the same with internet connection, practically any hotel or guesthouse or restaurant offers Wifi internet connection. Of course, mobile operators also offer decent 3G or 4G mobile internet, which you can use very well when traveling (Google maps, e-mail, surfing). The most interesting for tourists will be a prepaid tourist sim card for calling and with mobile data for different times in different packages. Here is also my selection of the best suitable mobile travel apps that may come in handy on your phone. Read carefully this article about how to call in Vietnam.
How do I make calls whilst in Vietnam?
The best option for tourists and travellers is to buy a Vietnamese prepaid tourist sim card. Buy a sim card, registrate and you can call and you can use mobile internet. Mobile operators offer a variety of tourist packages in different price categories. These prepaid sim cards make calling in Vietnam very cheap. Tourist Prepaid SIM cards contain data for mobile internet (1GB – 20 GB, valid for 5 days and up to 1 month). Of course you can also use the internet and call with Skype or Viber.
Mobile numbers in Vietnam have the following codes: 09y xxx-xxxx, 01yy xxx-xxxx
(09y and 01yy – are telephone prefix of Vietnamese operators).
What is Vietnam country code?
The Vietnam country code is 84. This code will allow you to call Vietnam from another country. Vietnam telephone code 84 is dialed after the IDD. Vietnam international dialing 84 is followed by an area code.
What are the most widely mobile operators in Vietnam?
Mobile operators in Vietnam – Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone, Vietnamobile. The biggest operator in Vietnam is Viettle and has various interesting offers. Viettle has also a wide coverage in Vietnam. You can buy prepaid sim cards almost anywhere where you see the logos of these mobile operators.
| Mobile Operators in Vietnam: | Details |
|---|---|
| Viettel |
|
| Vinaphone |
|
| Mobifone |
|
| Vietnamobile |
|
Viettel Prepaid Tourist SIM Card:
The Viettel SIM card should be your first choice if you are goingto remote areas in northern Vietnam.
Prices for call and mobile data access are roughly the same as the others.
• price is about 50,000 – 500,000 VND, depending on how big a data package you choose (from 1 GB – 10 GB)
• cheapest option, and it has a wide range of coverage in Vietnam
• price of a 1 minute local call is from 1, 000 dong, SMS for 250 dong
• price of a 1 minute for call to a foreign country is about 3, 000 dong, SMS for 2, 500 dong
• bundle is charged with 30, 000 dong and is valid for one month
• to check your call balance type *101#
• default PIN code is 1111
• Viettel sends a lot of advertising SMS messages
• (prices and information may change over time, there are also various special offers)
Where to buy SIM card in Vietnam + Registration?
You can buy SIM cards almost everywhere – at the airports, in the official stores, in the big cities, in the small towns, in Hanoi almost everywhere… To buy a prepaid SIM card, you have to officially show your ID or passport and need to be registered first, before the SIM card can be activated. But in practice, this was not really much enforced before November 2016. Then the government shut down 12 million falsely registered SIM cards (more information). The rules are now more strictly enforced, that you bring your passport and register to activate your SIM card in an operator’s store.
🏡 Viettel oficial store in Hanoi – Map
🏡 Viettel official store in Saigon – Map
Official registration can be done in the major stores of the operators.
Small independent street shops can’t activate them for you and they still sell a SIM on somebody else’s identity to you. With these vendors make sure that they activate it for you or show where and how to do it. Official registration can done in the major stores of the operators or the seller will direct you to a registration point, where you’ll need to show your passport. Don’t leave the store without instructions, how to activate or with a SIM which is already activated. You can check whether your SIM has been registered by texting ‚TTTB‘ to 1414 on all major operators. If registered, the response will include the name, birthdate, and ID number (Vietnam ID or foreign passport) of the registered individual.
➜ RECOMMENDED from 2017 – buy and register your Sim card at the major store of mobile operator.
A traveller visiting the country for only a few days may do fine without registration. You only risk that your SIM will be shut off anytime without prior warning. This has been reported after 4 days already. To avoid losing your credit and allowances in this case, you’ll need to go to a registration point in an official store and re-register your SIM on your name by showing your passport as required by law. If you want to call in Vietnam withou any problems – go the official store.
💳 Tourist SIM Card in Vietnam – Activation Steps:
| Activation of SIM Card in Vietnam | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Find a store | Locate a reputable store or service provider that sells SIM cards. |
| Step 2: Choose a plan | Select a suitable tourist SIM card plan based on your needs. |
| Step 3: Provide ID | Present your passport and provide the necessary identification. |
| Step 4: Purchase | Pay for the SIM card and any additional fees or top-up amount. |
| Step 5: Register SIM | Complete the SIM card registration process as required. |
| Step 6: Activate | Follow the instructions provided to activate the SIM card. |
| Step 7: Insert SIM | Insert the SIM card into your unlocked or compatible phone. |
| Step 8: Top-up (Optional) | If needed, recharge the SIM card with additional credit or data. |
For more information about the Vietnam mobile operators and SIM cards, visit this link:
➜ Mobile operators in Vietnam and data packages
I had a Viettel SIM card with 3GB data package for 3G internet for 1 month and I paid 250,000 dong. It was enough for a whole month. I made some local calls, and almost every day I used Google Maps, and email and occasional surfing the internet. In some remote mountainous areas there may not be a signal, but I only had a problem once on the route between Lai Chau and Son La city. In some areas you may have a problem with roaming. For more information, you need to contact your mobile operator.
Way2go – tourist prepaid SIM card by Mobiphone:
A relatively newer offer is also a tourist prepaid SIM card Way2go from Consortio – a subsidiary of Mobiphone. This card is intended mainly for tourists, for a stay of up to 30 days and also offers English support, international calls of 30 minutes included in the package price (but only to selected countries), 6 GB package on the Internet in the base (with other packages), tourist hotline, various travel tips and advice, 60 minutes to call in Vietnam and 100 SMS in Vietnam.
The SIM Card is available for sale at the airports in Hanoi, Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City in Mobiphone stores and at selected hotels in Vietnam, and the basic variant costs 250,000 VND (may change over time). More information about the card offer here at www.way2go.vn. Personally, I have no experience with the card and I do not know its coverage and functionality (I would be a little afraid of Mobiphonr, but maybe unnecessarily, but I would rather choose a card from Viettel).
How do I call from Vietnam to foreign countries?
To call foreign countries from Vietnam, you need to follow these steps:
- Dial the international access code: To make an international call from Vietnam, you need to dial the international access code „00“.
- Dial the country code: After dialing the international access code, you need to dial the country code of the country you are trying to reach. Each country has a unique country code, which is usually 1-4 digits long. You can find a list of country codes online.
- Dial the area code (if necessary): After dialing the country code, you may need to dial the area code of the city or region you are trying to reach. This is usually between 1-4 digits long.
- Dial the local phone number: Finally, dial the local phone number of the person or business you are trying to reach. This is usually between 5-10 digits long.
For example, if you wanted to call the United States from Vietnam, you would dial: 00 + 1 + area code (if necessary) + local phone number. It’s important to note that international calling rates may vary depending on your phone plan, so it’s a good idea to check with your service provider before making international calls.
Internet Access for Travelers in Vietnam:
For the modern traveler, staying connected is often a top priority. Vietnam, with its rich cultural tapestry and breathtaking landscapes, has also embraced the digital age, providing a well-connected environment for visitors. In this guide, we’ll explore what travelers can expect regarding internet access, Wi-Fi availability, and other essential information for staying connected while exploring Vietnam.
Mobile Connectivity:
Vietnam boasts a robust mobile network infrastructure, making it easy for travelers to stay connected on the go. SIM cards are readily available at airports, convenience stores, and mobile carriers‘ shops. The major carriers, including Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone, offer various data plans suitable for short-term visitors. These plans typically include high-speed data and are compatible with most unlocked smartphones.
Wi-Fi Hotspots:
Wi-Fi connectivity is widespread in urban areas, hotels, cafes, and tourist attractions. Many accommodations, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, offer complimentary Wi-Fi for guests. In popular tourist destinations, cafes and restaurants often provide free Wi-Fi, allowing travelers to stay connected while enjoying local cuisine. However, in more remote or rural areas, Wi-Fi availability may be limited.
Internet Speed and Quality:
In urban centers like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, internet speeds are generally reliable and fast. However, in more rural areas, the quality of internet service may vary. It’s advisable for travelers to download maps and important information before venturing into less developed regions where connectivity may be less consistent.
Internet Cafes:
While the prevalence of internet cafes has diminished with the rise of smartphones, you can still find them in some areas. These cafes typically provide desktop computers with internet access, and the rates are generally reasonable. They can be handy if you need to access a computer for longer periods or require a more stable connection.
Censorship and Restrictions:
Travelers should be aware that Vietnam imposes certain restrictions on internet content. Social media platforms, news websites, and other online content may be subject to censorship. Virtual Private Network (VPN) services can help bypass these restrictions and provide a more secure connection, ensuring that travelers can access the content they need without limitations.
Navigating the Digital Landscape:
Apps like Grab (Vietnam’s equivalent of Uber), Google Maps, and translation apps can be invaluable tools for travelers. Ensure that you download these apps and any necessary maps before your journey, as data connectivity may not be available in every location.
Facebook and Twitter in Vietnam:
Facebook’s Dominance:
With over 70 million users, Facebook reigns supreme as the most popular social media platform in Vietnam. The platform has become an essential tool for communication, connecting friends and family, and fostering online communities. From small businesses to multinational corporations, many enterprises leverage Facebook as a key marketing channel to reach their target audiences.
One distinctive aspect of Facebook in Vietnam is its significance in maintaining familial and social ties. The platform serves as a virtual extension of Vietnamese society, allowing users to share family updates, photos, and life milestones. It has become a crucial platform for organizing events, sharing cultural content, and staying connected with the global Vietnamese diaspora.
Facebook Groups have gained immense popularity, serving as hubs for like-minded individuals to discuss shared interests, hobbies, or professions. These groups cater to a wide range of topics, from food and travel to business networking and academic discussions. As a result, Facebook has become a dynamic space for the exchange of ideas and the formation of communities.
Twitter’s Growing Presence:
While Facebook dominates the social media scene in Vietnam, Twitter is steadily gaining traction. Twitter’s unique format, characterized by short-form posts (tweets), appeals to a demographic seeking real-time updates and concise information. The platform has become a space for public discourse, breaking news, and discussions on a global scale.
Twitter’s influence is particularly notable in the realm of activism and social movements. Vietnamese users utilize the platform to express dissenting opinions, share information about human rights issues, and connect with like-minded individuals. The hashtag culture on Twitter has played a significant role in amplifying voices and drawing attention to social and political issues.
The platform is also a valuable resource for businesses and professionals to engage with a broader audience. Companies use Twitter to provide customer support, share updates, and participate in industry conversations. Influencers and thought leaders use the platform to share insights and build their personal brands.
How to acces blocked Facebook in Vietnam?
As mentioned Its a bit of a joke, but its just changing the DNS server address. DNS server IP address will change to 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 and restarts the internet. That’s all. But probably you should not have any problem with Facebook.
More detailed procedure for those who do not know where to do this is here:
➜ How to acces blocked Facebook in Vietnam?
❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Calling in Vietnam:
1. How do you call the police in Vietnam?
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- If you have some troubles in Vietnam and you want to call police, you can use and dial number 113.
2. How do you call the emergency rescue in Vietnam?
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- Emegency rescue – an important thing for tourist. You can use and dial number 112.
3. How do you call an ambulance in Vietnam?
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- Ambulance – another important thing for tourist. You can use and dial number 115
4. Can I use my cell phone in Vietnam?
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- Yes, you can use your cell phone/mobile phone in Vietnam without any problem. Before you come to Vietnam, ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier.
5. What is the best way for tourists how to call in Vietnam?
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- The best way how tourists can call in Vietnam is to buy prepaid tourist SIM card. There are various tourists packages and prices are low. These cards have also mobile data, about 1-10 GB and you can use these cards for about 5-30 days.
6. Where to buy prepaid tourist SIM cards in Vietnam?
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- You can buy these tourist cards in the official stores in the city center, at the airport or another various small shops. The best way is to buy this card at the official store of mobile operator.
7. Which tourist card has a wide range of coverage in Vietnam?
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- The most widest range of coverage has Viettel – the biggest company in Vietnam. This is the best option if you will be traveling also in the various remote areas of Vietnam.
8. Is it possible to use Skype, WhatsApp, Viber in Vietnam?
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- Yes, sure, you can easily use your applications in your smartphone like Skype, WhatsApp or Viber for calling. It is also the best option how you can also call to your country.
9. Where to buy smartphone in Vietnam?
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- Mobile phone stores: There are many mobile phone stores throughout Vietnam, especially in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Some of the popular mobile phone stores include The Gioi Di Dong, FPT Shop, and Viettel Store. Electronic stores: Electronic stores like Pico, Nguyen Kim, MediaMart also sell smartphones and electronic devices.
10. Is it possible to buy a tourist sim card in the airport in Vietnam?
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- Yes, it is possible to buy a tourist SIM card at the airport in Vietnam. In fact, many airports in Vietnam have booths or kiosks that sell SIM cards specifically for tourists. You can usually find these booths / kiosks near the baggage claim area or in the arrivals hall of the airport. The major mobile network providers in Vietnam, such as Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone, all offer tourist SIM cards that provide data, voice, and text services. These SIM cards can be used throughout Vietnam and are a convenient way for tourists to stay connected while traveling. When purchasing a tourist SIM card at the airport, you will need to present your passport as proof of identity. The staff at the booth or kiosk will then assist you in selecting the right SIM card and setting it up.
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Vietnam ➜
