eSIM, or “embedded SIM", is a digital SIM card that is built directly into a device. Unlike a traditional physical SIM card, an eSIM does not require manual insertion or removal. Instead, it can be activated remotely by scanning a QR code provided by the mobile operator.
Key benefits of eSIM:
No physical card required – No need to swap SIM cards.
Instant activation – Connect to a network within minutes.
Multiple profiles – Store multiple eSIM profiles on a single device and easily switch between them.
Enhanced security – Less risk of loss or damage than a physical SIM.
eSIM technology is revolutionizing mobile connectivity, especially for frequent travelers, as it allows for seamless network switching without having to purchase and swap SIM cards.
How many types of eSIM are there?
There are two main types of eSIMs:
1. Local eSIM (Prepaid or Postpaid)
Issued by a network provider in a specific country.
Requires a local ID for postpaid plans but prepaid plans are available for tourists.
Ideal for long-term stays.
2. Global eSIM (Travel eSIM)
Provided by international carriers.
Works in many countries.
Perfect for tourists and frequent travelers.
Both types of eSIMs offer varying degrees of flexibility. However, for short-term visitors to Vietnam, a travel eSIM is the most convenient option.
Which type of eSIM should travelers use when traveling to Vietnam?
As mentioned above, there are 02 types of eSIM and tourists coming to Vietnam only need to buy a travel eSIM to connect with friends and family via the internet as well as find more information about the destination.
Type of eSIM (Source: Tripadvisor)
Travel eSIM has the following advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages
Save time, be proactive and do not spend shipping costs: Travel eSIM is purchased online. You just need to contact the travel eSIM provider, then you will receive a QRcode and install eSIM on your phone simply and immediately without having to wait for the train or go to the place selling sim. And you can completely buy a Vietnam travel eSIM for foreigners coming to Vietnam for tourism.
Travel eSIM has a variety of packages depending on your needs. With a regular physical SIM, you will be tied to the available Foot packages of the SIM when you buy it, sometimes you will use it up but cannot renew or buy more Foot packages. With eSIM travel, you can proactively contact the supplier to buy more Foot packages, duration.
eSIM Travel is supported remotely: the job that you buy a regular travel SIM, the SIM selling units only sell it and that's it. It is a very inconvenient job when you buy a travel SIM without support when needed. If you can buy a defective SIM, damaged when tearing the SIM off and not being able to use it or the SIM has expired but because you have peeled off the seal, it will be refused to be returned or if accepted to exchange, you will have to wait for the SIM to be shipped, which is very time-consuming. But with eSIM travel, you will be supported remotely during the time you use the eSIM to ensure you have the best experience and must be able to use it.
Disadvantages
No data network sharing: When using a travel eSIM, users will not be able to share data network from their bj device to other devices. However, with a low price, each customer can completely equip themselves with a travel eSIM when coming to Vietnam and do not need to share data network from any device and can completely control the internet connection for their device.
Travel eSIM has few supported devices. Currently, not all mobile devices support travel eSIM. Only the devices listed in the list below support eSIM.
Travel eSIM does not support phone numbers, regular calls, data connection only. However, with the technology era and chat and call applications such as: Zalo, Whatapp, Messenger, iMess, Line ...., calling phone numbers regularly is almost not a big problem.
Currently, there are many Vietnam eSIM data packages for both short-term tourists and long-term business travelers to Vietnam, as well as overseas Vietnamese and students returning home for a short term.
In addition to the variety of packages, the Vietnam eSIM travel package provided by Vietnam-visa has outstanding features:
with a phone number for easy contact when you are in Vietnam
with a long term, up to 1 year and can be renewed.
The specific packages are as follow
eSIM Vietnam travel (Source: Asia King Travel)
List of Devices That Support eSIM
As mentioned above, not all devices can install and use eSIM for travel. Below is a list of devices that tourists can install eSIM for travel to Vietnam. And you must ensure that these devices are locked versions.
Apple
Apple Brand (Source: FPT Shop)
iPhone XR (model A2105, manufactured since 2018)
iPhone XS (model A2097, manufactured since 2018), iPhone XS Max (model A2101, manufactured since 2018)
iPhone 11 (model A2221, manufactured since 2019), iPhone 11 Pro (model A2215, manufactured since 2019)
iPhone SE 2 (2020)
iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 13 (dual eSIM), iPhone 13 mini (dual eSIM), iPhone 13 Pro (dual eSIM), iPhone 13 Pro Max (dual eSIM)
iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 15, iPhne 15 Plus, iPhone 15 pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
iPad Pro 11” (model A2068, manufactured from 2020)
iPad Pro 12.9” (model A2069, manufactured from 2020)
iPad Air (model A2123, manufactured from 2019)
iPad (model A2198, manufactured from 2019)
iPad Mini (model A2124, manufactured from 2019)
Note: iPhones purchased from mainland China or Hong Kong are type 2 sim, do not support eSIM.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
Samsung Watch (via Samsung wearable application)
Note: The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 4G or 5G does not support eSIM.
Samsung Galaxy S20 Hybrid Dual SIM – Samsung has both eSIM and non-eSIM models.
Google
Google Brand (Source: Telstra)
Google Pixel 2 (Google Fi enabled phones only), Google Pixel 2 XL
Google Pixel 3 (does not include phones purchased in Australia, Taiwan, or Japan. Phones purchased from US or Canadian carriers other than Spring and Google Fi do not support eSIM), Google Pixel 3 XL
Google Pixel 3a, Google Pixel 3a XL (purchased in Southeast Asia)
Google Pixel 4, Google Pixel 4a, Google Pixel 4 XL
Google Pixel 5, Google Pixel 5a
Google Pixel 6 Pro
Google Pixel 7 Pro
Huawei
Huawei P40, Huawei P40 Pro
Huawei P50 Pro
Huawei Mate 40 Pro
Other Brands
Motorola Razr 2019
Nuu Mobile X5
Gemini PDA
Rakuten Mini
Oppo Find X3 Pro
Oppo Reno 5A
Oppo Reno6 Pro 5G
Microsoft Surface Pro X, Go 2, Pro LTE Advanced
Acer Swift 3, 7
Asus Mini Transformer
Asus NovaGo
Asus VivoBook Flip 14
HP Elitebook G5
HP Probook G5
HP Zbook G5
HP Specter Folio 13
Lenovo Yoga C630, 520
Lenovo Miix 630
Lenovo Flex 5G
Samsung Galaxy Book 2
Not sure if your phone supports eSIM?
Check in Settings → Mobile/Cellular Data → Add eSIM.
How to Install eSIM on Mobile Devices?
Setting an eSIM up on your phone is pretty fast and easy. Here's how to set it up:
How to Install eSIM on Mobile Devices (Source: TechSignin.com)
For iPhone:
Open Settings app → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan.
Scan the QR code your eSIM provider has provided.
Select either your eSIM as a default or secondary mode for data.
Enable and use mobile data.
For Android: Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.
Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM.
Select Scan QR Code and scan the code sent by your provider.
Follow the on-screen instructions to activate the plan.
Note: Some eSIMs will be activated by downloading an app, such as Airalo and Nomad. How to Purchase an eSIM for Travel in Vietnam? Purchasing an eSIM to use in Vietnam can easily be done online in a few simple steps:
Step 1: Choose Your Provider Pick a proper eSIM vendor that can sell you a travel-compatible plan for use in Vietnam.
Step 2: Choose your Data Plan
Pick a package that fits your trip duration and data needs (e.g., 5GB for 7 days, unlimited for 30 days).
Step 3: Complete the Purchase
Enter your details, make the payment, and receive the QR code via email.
Step 4: Activate the eSIM
Scan the QR code and activate the eSIM before or upon arrival in Vietnam.
You can buy eSIMs from popular providers through their official websites or mobile applications. Some even offer 24/7 customer support for any issues that may arise.
Frequently Asked Questions About eSIM for Traveling to Vietnam
1. Will I have to take my physical SIM out to insert the eSIM?
No, most eSIM-capable devices support dual-SIM functionality, so you can keep your physical SIM for calls and an eSIM for data.
2. Can I call and send SMS using eSIM in Vietnam?
Most travel eSIMs provide only data. You can make calls and message using WhatsApp, Telegram, Skype, or other apps.
3. What if I run out of data with my eSIM?
You will be able to top up or buy a new eSIM plan from your provider's website or app.
4. Can I install more than one eSIM on my phone?
Yes! Most phones allow storing multiple eSIM profiles, but only one can be active at a time (except for iPhone 13 and newer models, which support dual active eSIMs).
5. What if my eSIM is not working in Vietnam?
Ensure eSIM is enabled in your phone’s settings.
Restart your device after installation.
Check if you’re connected to a supported network (e.g., Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone).
Contact the eSIM provider’s support team for troubleshooting.
6. Can I use my eSIM for other countries after leaving Vietnam?
Some providers offer regional or global plans that work across multiple destinations. Check with your provider before purchasing.
7. Is eSIM better than buying a local SIM in Vietnam?
Yes! eSIM offers:
Instant activation (no need to visit a store).
No physical SIM swapping (convenient for travelers).
Prepaid options with no contracts or hidden fees.
eSIMs for tourists traveling to Vietnam mean seamless, affordable, and efficient connectivity. Easy to activate, with no hassles involving physical SIMs, and flexible plans, it is just what short-term visitors need.
Conclusion
If you are planning your Vietnam adventure, book with Asia King Travel for a hassle-free journey. Our team will make sure you see the best of Vietnam, staying connected with an eSIM. Plan your trip now with Asia King Travel and experience Vietnam in uninterrupted connectivity!
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