How to call in Vietnam? [+Tourist SIM cards]

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.

Viettel Prepaid Tourist SIM Card:

📱 Viettel Tourist SIM – Quick Summary:

Viettel is a popular choice for travelers looking for reliable mobile internet across Vietnam, especially in northern and remote areas. Tourist SIM packages are affordable, easy to purchase after arrival, and usually include large daily data allowances with good nationwide coverage.

The Viettel tourist SIM card is still considered one of the best choices for travelers heading to remote areas of northern Vietnam, mountain regions, or smaller towns where mobile coverage can be limited. Viettel offers one of the widest 4G/5G networks in Vietnam and is generally more reliable outside major cities than other local operators.

• tourist prepaid SIM and eSIM packages usually cost about 90,000–250,000 VND
• most popular tourist plans include 4–5 GB of high-speed mobile data per day
• packages are commonly valid for 7, 15, or 30 days
• local calls and SMS are often included in tourist bundles
• Viettel supports 4G and 5G networks in most tourist destinations
• SIM cards can be purchased at airports, official Viettel stores, convenience shops, or online
• passport registration is required when activating a SIM card in Vietnam
• excellent network coverage in northern Vietnam and remote mountain provinces
• prices and package details may change depending on promotions and season

Viettel remains one of the most recommended mobile operators in Vietnam for travelers who need stable internet access while traveling, trekking, or visiting less developed regions.

Where to Buy a SIM Card in Vietnam + SIM Registration

You can buy a tourist SIM card in Vietnam almost everywhere — at international airports, official mobile operator stores, convenience shops, shopping malls, and in most major cities in Vietnam. In cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, SIM cards are widely available in tourist areas and transportation hubs.

To legally activate a Vietnam prepaid SIM card, you are required to show your passport or another valid ID document. Since the Vietnamese government introduced stricter mobile registration rules, all SIM cards should now be officially registered before activation. Earlier, many unregistered SIM cards were sold without verification, but authorities later deactivated millions of improperly registered numbers (more information).

For the most reliable setup and activation process, it is strongly recommended to buy your SIM card directly from an official mobile operator store.

🏡 Viettel official store in Hanoi – Map

🏡 Viettel official store in Saigon – Map

How SIM Card Registration Works in Vietnam

Many small street vendors still sell prepaid SIM cards that may already be registered under another person’s identity. While these SIM cards can sometimes work temporarily, they may later be blocked without warning.

The safest option is to complete the official SIM card registration in Vietnam at a mobile operator store such as Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobifone. Staff will usually activate the SIM card for you directly after checking your passport.

Before leaving the store, always make sure that:

• your SIM card is fully activated
• mobile data and calls are working properly
• you know your Vietnamese phone number
• the package validity and mobile data limits are explained

You can verify whether your SIM card has been officially registered by sending the text message TTTB to 1414. The system will return the registration details connected to the SIM card.

📱 Recommended Tip:

If you plan to travel around Vietnam for more than a few days, always buy and register your SIM card at an official operator store. Proper registration helps avoid unexpected SIM deactivation and ensures stable mobile internet access during your trip.

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💳 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.

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.way2gotravel.com. 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:

1. Dial the international access code: To make an international call from Vietnam, you need to dial the international access code “00”.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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 X (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.

X (Twitter)’s Growing Presence:

While Facebook dominates the social media scene in Vietnam, X (Twitter) is steadily gaining traction. X (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.

X (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 X (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 X (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?

Practical information