How to set up a Vietnam eSIM — Step by step
The two easiest steps happen before you board your flight: buy an eSIM online and scan the QR code while you still have Wi‑Fi. Activation then triggers automatically as soon as your phone connects to a local network in Vietnam. No need to hunt for a SIM kiosk at the airport or swap out your home card.
Step 1: Check phone compatibility and buy your eSIM
eSIM support is standard on most recent phones. iPhones from XS onward (all variants except those sold in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau) work. On the Android side, Samsung Galaxy S20+, Note20+, and newer models support it, as do Google Pixel 3 and later. If your device is from the restricted regions, you’ll need a physical SIM instead.
Purchase your eSIM online before departure – we sell them through simvietnam.telebox.vn. After checkout, the QR code is emailed to you immediately. Keep in mind that a Vietnam eSIM is data‑only: you won’t get a local phone number. Calls and SMS still use your home carrier (if you roam) or internet‑based apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Telegram.
Step 2: Install on iPhone (scan QR code)
Make sure you have a Wi‑Fi connection or cellular data from your active home SIM. Open Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan, then scan the QR code from the email. You can label the plan something like “Vietnam Data” to keep it organised. Assign it as the default line for Cellular Data.
Keep your home SIM active for voice calls and SMS by setting it as the Default Voice Line (if you want). After adding the eSIM, go to Settings > Cellular, tap the Vietnam plan, and toggle Data Roaming ON. That’s it – the eSIM is ready to activate once you land.
Step 3: Install on Samsung / Google Pixel
On a Samsung device, go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add eSIM and scan the QR code. For Google Pixel, navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Add eSIM, then choose the scan option (the exact wording varies slightly by Android version). After adding, set the Vietnam eSIM as your preferred SIM for mobile data.
Enable Data Roaming for the eSIM in the SIM settings. If you’re using a dual‑SIM phone, assign calls and SMS to your home SIM so you keep your usual number reachable. The process takes less than a minute.
Step 4: Activate when you land in Vietnam
Activation is automatic: as soon as your phone connects to Viettel or Vinaphone’s network inside Vietnam, the eSIM profile kicks in. If you don’t see service within a minute, toggle Airplane Mode on and off to force a fresh network search.
Double‑check that Data Roaming is enabled for the Vietnam eSIM plan. No APN changes are needed – the eSIM profile already includes the correct APN. Network selection should be set to Automatic. If you’re in a spot where only Viettel or Vinaphone works, you can manually select that carrier under Settings > Cellular > Network Selection.
Step 5: Troubleshooting common issues
If the eSIM shows no service, first confirm you’re inside a coverage area. Remote destinations like Sapa or Ha Giang are only covered by Viettel, so manual selection to Viettel may help. Rebooting the phone and toggling Data Roaming off then on usually resolves temporary glitches. Also check that your plan hasn’t expired – the validity is listed in the purchase email.
If scanning the QR code fails, look in the same email for a manual entry option (SM‑DP+ address and activation code). For dual‑SIM users, verify that the Vietnam eSIM is selected for data. On iOS 17+, you can even set which SIM to use for data on a per‑app basis (Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data > Per‑App Settings). If everything still doesn’t work, contact simvietnam support via live chat or email – include your order number and we’ll help sort it out quickly.
FAQ
Can I install the eSIM before arriving in Vietnam?
Yes, you should install it before departure while you have Wi‑Fi. The QR code is emailed right after purchase. Once the eSIM profile is installed, it won’t activate until your phone connects to a Vietnamese network. That way you don’t have to fumble with settings at the airport.
Does a China/Hong Kong iPhone work with Vietnam eSIM?
No. iPhones sold in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau do not have eSIM hardware. You’ll need a physical SIM card instead, or consider using a pocket Wi‑Fi device.
Can I keep my home SIM active while using Vietnam eSIM?
Absolutely. That’s one of the main advantages of eSIM. Your home SIM stays in the phone for calls, SMS, and roaming data (if you choose to use it). The Vietnam eSIM handles your local data. Just assign the correct default lines in your settings.
What if my eSIM doesn't work after landing?
First, make sure Data Roaming is ON for the Vietnam eSIM plan. Toggle Airplane Mode once to force a network search. If you still have no service, try manually selecting Viettel or Vinaphone from the carrier list. Reboot the phone as a last step. If the problem persists, contact support with your order number.
Do I need to change APN settings for Vietnam eSIM?
No. The eSIM profile automatically configures the correct APN. You don’t need to touch APN settings at all. Just install and enable Data Roaming.