Vietnam – Internet

Who are the major internet service providers in Vietnam?

Fixed broadband in Vietnam is dominated by three major providers: VNPT, Viettel, and FPT Telecom. These companies collectively account for the overwhelming majority of residential subscribers, though a number of smaller operators are also active across various parts of the country.

VNPT (Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group)

As a state-owned enterprise that also functions as Vietnam’s national postal operator, VNPT commands the largest share of the fixed broadband market. The company delivers both fibre-optic and ADSL internet packages to home and business customers, along with additional services including IPTV, fixed telephony, and cloud solutions. VNPT markets its internet and mobile products under the VinaPhone brand. Its most basic residential internet plan begins at approximately VND 189,000 per month (around USD $8) inclusive of VAT, as of 2025 — consult the official VNPT website for the most current pricing.

Viettel Telecom

Viettel, which operates under military ownership, ranks second in Vietnam’s fixed broadband market. The company delivers mobile, fixed-line, and internet services via both fibre-optic and ADSL infrastructure, serving individuals and enterprises alike. A notable strength is Viettel’s reach into rural and provincial areas, making it an especially practical option for expats residing outside Vietnam’s main cities. Entry packages begin at roughly VND 185,000 per month (approximately USD $8 including VAT) for a baseline 30 Mbps download speed, as of 2025. Current plan details are available at viettel.com.vn.

FPT Telecom

FPT is a privately owned company and holds third place among fixed broadband providers in Vietnam. Its fibre-optic network supports speeds up to 1 Gbps, catering to remote workers, streamers, gamers, and everyday users alike. FPT is unique among the three major ISPs in offering a fully translated English version of its website, which significantly lowers the barrier for newly arrived expats unfamiliar with Vietnamese. The company is also widely regarded for responsive customer support. Visit fpt.vn for English-language service information and up-to-date pricing.

Other Providers

VTC Intecom is an additional operator offering leased-line and FTTH services, contributing to Vietnam’s broader digital connectivity ecosystem. For expats or businesses with high-bandwidth demands, dedicated leased-line solutions from VNPT and FPT Telecom International are worth exploring. Because coverage can vary at the street or building level, it is always advisable to confirm availability at your specific address with each provider directly before committing to a plan.

What types of internet connection are available in Vietnam?

Vietnam’s fixed broadband market has a strong orientation toward fibre, placing it well ahead of many countries that still depend heavily on ageing copper-based networks. The following connection types are currently on offer:

Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH)

VNPT has undertaken an extensive nationwide FTTH buildout backed by the government’s National Digital Transformation Programme, which targets the addition of 2.7 million connected households per year. FPT and Viettel have similarly extended their fibre networks across all major cities. Mirroring the near-complete fibre penetration seen in South Korea and Singapore, Vietnam’s urban zones now treat FTTH as the standard residential connection type, with packages ranging from 100 Mbps up to 1 Gbps.

ADSL / DSL

Copper telephone line (ADSL) connections remain available in certain areas through VNPT and Viettel, primarily where fibre infrastructure has yet to be deployed. Download speeds on ADSL typically top out at around 24 Mbps and these products are being progressively retired in favour of fibre. If you are renting accommodation in a provincial or rural location, it is worth checking with your landlord which technology is already connected to the property.

4G/5G Mobile Broadband and Home Broadband

Viettel has constructed more than 5,000 new 5G base stations nationally, creating a high-speed, low-latency network that extends across urban, suburban, and remote areas, with full coverage of major population centres anticipated in the near term. Mobile broadband delivered via 4G or 5G SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi routers provides a reliable stopgap or complement for new arrivals waiting on a fixed-line installation.

Satellite

Satellite broadband exists as an option for Vietnam’s most remote highland and rural locations where fixed or mobile infrastructure has not yet been established, though overall uptake remains low compared to urban alternatives. For expats settling in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or other major urban centres, satellite internet will be unnecessary.

Urban vs Rural Availability

Data from 2021 through September 2024 identified roughly 3,310 villages across Vietnam with no mobile broadband coverage at all, underscoring that while cities and their surrounding areas are very well served, connectivity gaps persist in remote upland communities. If you intend to live outside a major city, it is strongly advisable to research local coverage before finalising a lease.

How fast and reliable is the internet in Vietnam?

Driven by aggressive 5G deployment and accelerating fibre expansion, Vietnam’s internet speeds have surged in recent years and now stand among the world’s best — a striking achievement for a country that ranked considerably lower just a few years ago.

Fixed Broadband

Ookla data places Vietnam 34th worldwide for fixed broadband speed, recording an average download speed of 163.41 Mbps as of early 2025 — significantly higher than the global average of 97.61 Mbps. This represents an improvement from 159.32 Mbps, which itself climbed from 136 Mbps recorded in June 2024. By comparison, Vietnam outpaces numerous European markets that still depend on legacy cable or VDSL2 networks.

Mobile Internet

On the mobile side, Vietnam ranks 22nd globally with an average download speed of 134.19 Mbps as of early 2025 per Ookla’s Speedtest figures, comfortably exceeding the worldwide average of 91.24 Mbps and representing a rise of 15 positions compared to January 2024. Analysts credit the improvement largely to 5G rollouts by VinaPhone and Viettel, with VinaPhone’s 5G network ranked second worldwide and Viettel third for overall mobile performance in Ookla’s most recent reports.

Urban vs Rural Experience

Speed performance varies across Vietnam’s cities. Ho Chi Minh City typically records the highest 4G download speeds at around 60 Mbps, while Hanoi averages approximately 50 Mbps. Cities including Da Nang, Hai Phong, and Binh Duong generally fall in the 40–50 Mbps band. In metropolitan areas where 5G is now widely deployed, peak speeds are considerably higher still. Remote locations and rural tourist destinations may see reduced speeds or remain dependent on older network generations.

Reliability and Latency

According to VNNIC, average mobile internet speed stands at 67.85 Mbps while fixed internet speed is recorded at 130.91 Mbps, with upload speeds on fixed connections running at approximately 25 Mbps. Latency on urban fixed broadband connections is generally low and fully suitable for video calls, remote work, and online gaming. International latency is somewhat higher given routing through submarine cables, though Vietnam now operates across six submarine cable systems. For the latest benchmarks, consult the Ookla Speedtest Global Index or the VNNIC website.

How do I get an internet connection set up in Vietnam?

Arranging a residential internet connection in Vietnam is a relatively simple process, and most providers can have a live connection up and running within a few days of receiving your application. All three major ISPs accept foreign national customers. The typical process unfolds as follows:

1. Choose a provider and package. Compare VNPT, Viettel, and FPT based on availability at your specific property. FPT’s English-language website is the most accessible starting point for those without Vietnamese language skills. Always verify fibre availability at your exact address before proceeding.
2. Contact the provider. Applications can be submitted through each provider’s website, at a physical retail outlet, or by telephone. FPT and Viettel operate service centres in major cities. Navigating VNPT’s Vietnamese-language portal may require the assistance of a Vietnamese speaker or a translation tool.
3. Prepare your documentation. Bring your original passport (not a copy), along with proof of your Vietnamese address — usually your rental agreement or a written statement from your landlord. A temporary residence card or long-stay visa will strengthen your application. Having a Vietnamese mobile number is also practically helpful, as providers send appointment confirmations and account notifications by SMS.
4. Sign the service contract. Contracts are issued in Vietnamese. Request a summary of the key terms in English, or bring a Vietnamese-speaking contact along with you. Review the contract duration carefully — most plans operate on a rolling monthly basis or offer reduced rates in exchange for six-, twelve-, or eighteen-month prepayment.
5. Arrange an installation appointment. A technician will attend your home to install fibre cabling if it is not already in place, connect a modem/router, and verify the connection. Paying for six, twelve, or eighteen months upfront often entitles you to one to three additional months of service at no charge.
6. Go live and configure your devices. The technician will hand over your Wi-Fi login credentials. Most providers include a combined modem/router as standard. If you prefer to use your own router, confirm beforehand that it is compatible with the provider’s network.

From application to active connection, the whole process generally takes two to five working days in urban locations. Installations in rural settings may require additional time. It is worth checking with your landlord before selecting a provider, as some apartment buildings have pre-existing agreements with a particular ISP — in which case you may benefit from an already negotiated building rate.

Can I get internet access before my permanent connection is installed in Vietnam?

Vietnam offers plenty of options for staying connected during the gap between your arrival and the activation of a fixed-line service, so you are unlikely to experience any meaningful period without internet access.

Prepaid SIM Cards with Mobile Data

SIM card kiosks operated by all major carriers are located within arrival halls at Vietnamese airports. Present your passport, select a data tariff, and walk away with an activated SIM within minutes. In cities, SIM cards are also widely available from branded operator outlets, electronics retailers, and supermarkets. Viettel, MobiFone, and VNPT all offer competitively priced prepaid options with 4G LTE data bundles starting from as little as $10 per month.

eSIMs

eSIM has grown into a popular choice for arriving travellers. Activated via a scanned QR code, an eSIM can be configured on your device before you even depart your home country, providing data connectivity from the moment you step off the plane. Local eSIM packages are substantially cheaper than international roaming charges. Verify eSIM compatibility with your device manufacturer before travelling.

Pocket Wi-Fi Devices

Portable Wi-Fi routers can be hired at Vietnamese airports or purchased from electronics retailers. These devices are especially convenient if you are working from several locations while your home connection is pending, or if multiple people in your group need simultaneous internet access.

Public Wi-Fi and Co-Working Spaces

Free public Wi-Fi has become increasingly common across Vietnam’s urban centres. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in particular offer numerous public spaces — including parks, transport hubs, and shopping areas — with complimentary wireless access. Co-working spaces are plentiful in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hoi An, and most offer day passes without requiring a monthly membership, making them an ideal base while you are in the process of getting settled.

What does internet service typically cost in Vietnam?

Internet pricing in Vietnam is highly competitive, and the country’s rates are among the lowest in Southeast Asia. The figures below reflect the situation as of 2025 — always check directly with providers for current offers, as packages and promotional pricing change regularly.

Residential Fixed Broadband

FPT’s entry-level personal internet plans begin at around VND 185,000 per month (approximately USD $8) for 22 Mbps symmetrical speeds, as of 2025. Pricing across FPT’s range runs from approximately VND 255,000 per month for 100 Mbps through to VND 5,880,000 per year for the top 200 Mbps tier. Viettel and VNPT offer broadly similar pricing structures. Most providers also make available:

• Bundled packages combining internet with IPTV television, typically priced from around VND 400,000–550,000 per month
• Discounts applied when paying six, twelve, or eighteen months in advance
• Promotional installation — installation fees are frequently waived during promotional periods, so it is worth enquiring with each provider about current deals

Installation and Equipment

Installation charges vary but are commonly waived during promotional campaigns, which are frequent enough that asking each provider about active offers is worthwhile. Modems and routers are generally provided on loan as part of the service package rather than sold to the customer. There is typically no separate equipment rental fee, though the hardware must be returned upon cancellation of the contract.

Mobile Data Plans

Monthly mobile plans offering 10–20 GB of data generally cost around $7–$12 as of 2025. Unlimited plans with speed throttling applied beyond a set data threshold are also available. For current pricing, visit the official websites of Viettel, VinaPhone (VNPT), and MobiFone. The VNNIC website is a useful additional reference for market-level information.

Contract Lengths

Standard fixed broadband contracts are offered on either a rolling monthly basis or an annual term, with annual agreements typically delivering the best per-month value. Most providers on rolling monthly contracts are not reported to impose significant early-termination penalties, but it is always advisable to review contract terms carefully before signing.

Are there any restrictions or censorship affecting internet use in Vietnam?

Understanding Vietnam’s regulatory approach to the internet is essential for anyone planning to relocate here. Unlike the open-access models prevalent across the European Union, Vietnam operates a filtered internet environment in which certain categories of content are blocked, and the legal framework governing what can be shared or published online is broad in scope.

Content Filtering and Blocked Platforms

Censorship in Vietnam is generally applied at the ISP level rather than via backbone-level filtering. Specific URLs are identified for restriction and added to block lists, with ISPs employing varying technical methods to enforce compliance with blocking orders. The blogging platform Medium was blocked in 2020. In May 2024, the gaming distribution service Steam was blocked by most major Vietnamese ISPs. In June 2025, Vietnamese authorities directed ISPs to block the Telegram messaging application nationwide, citing national security concerns and the circulation of illegal content.

Decree 147 and the 2018 Cybersecurity Law

In November 2024, the government enacted Decree 147/2024/ND-CP, which came into force on 25 December 2024, replacing earlier internet regulations and extending the government’s reach over both domestic and foreign internet service providers operating in Vietnam. Under Decree 147, technology companies active in Vietnam are required to verify user accounts via phone numbers or Vietnamese identification numbers, supply that information to authorities upon request, and remove any content deemed “illegal” within 24 hours.

VPN Usage

Using a VPN is not explicitly prohibited under Vietnamese law. Although the government routinely adds circumvention tools such as web proxies to its block lists, VPN use in practice appears to be broadly tolerated. A large number of expats and businesses use VPNs as a matter of routine, both for privacy and to access services from their home countries. However, the legal position lacks complete clarity, and keeping informed about regulatory developments is prudent. Crucially, using a VPN does not provide any protection for activities that are unlawful under Vietnamese law.

Legal Considerations for Expats

All content created, shared, transmitted, or retrieved via the internet in Vietnam must comply with the country’s Press Law, Publication Law, and associated legislation. Domestic and foreign individuals and organisations engaged in internet activity within Vietnam bear equal legal responsibility for the content they generate and distribute. This obligation applies fully to foreign nationals. Exercise caution about posting or forwarding material that could be interpreted as politically sensitive under Vietnamese law. When in doubt, consult a qualified legal professional with expertise in Vietnamese regulations.

What should I know about mobile data and SIM cards in Vietnam?

Vietnam’s four principal mobile operators are Viettel (offering the most comprehensive 4G and 5G coverage), VNPT/VinaPhone (the second largest operator), MobiFone (one of the country’s longest-established carriers), and Vietnamobile (which competes primarily on price).

Coverage by Operator

Viettel is Vietnam’s largest telecoms company, with a 4G/LTE and 5G network that reaches more than 95% of the population across virtually all major urban centres and provinces. VinaPhone maintains strong 4G coverage in major economic regions, serving around 85% of the population and delivering LTE speeds up to 150 Mbps in cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnamobile offers unlimited data packages at very low price points — approximately 3 GB for around $1.34 — making it an attractive option for heavy urban data users, though its network performance deteriorates significantly in mountainous regions, outer provinces, and remote islands.

SIM Registration Requirements

Registering a SIM card with your passport is a mandatory government requirement. Foreign nationals must present their passport at the point of purchase, whether that is at an airport kiosk, a telecoms store, or a supermarket outlet. Unregistered SIM cards will be deactivated. Registration is a quick process and is typically completed at the point of sale in a matter of minutes.

eSIM Availability

eSIM has become an increasingly favoured option for getting connected on arrival. Activated by scanning a QR code, an eSIM can be configured before you depart your home country, giving you live data access from the moment you land. Both VinaPhone and Viettel support eSIM for compatible handsets. Confirm eSIM compatibility with your device manufacturer before travel.

International Roaming

Using a home-country SIM on international roaming in Vietnam is technically feasible, as the majority of global operators have roaming agreements with Vietnamese networks. However, roaming charges are typically far higher than purchasing a local prepaid SIM or eSIM. Roaming is practical for very brief visits or business trips, but for anyone relocating or staying more than a week, a local SIM represents far greater value. Check current roaming tariffs with your existing provider before departure.

5G Availability

Vietnam’s surge in mobile speeds coincides directly with the national 5G rollout. By mid-December 2024, Viettel reported around four million active 5G subscribers, with speeds reaching between 1.5 and 1.9 Gbps under optimal conditions. By 2025, full 5G coverage is expected to extend to all provinces and cities, as well as high-tech parks, IT hubs, industrial zones, major seaports, and airports throughout the country.

Who regulates internet and telecoms services in Vietnam?

The Vietnam Internet Network Information Centre (VNNIC), operating as an affiliate of the Ministry of Science and Technology, is the body responsible for managing, allocating, supervising, and promoting the use of internet domain names, IP addresses, and autonomous system numbers. Oversight of internet provision and usage is shared between two ministries: the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Public Security.

VNNIC functions as the primary technical and administrative authority for Vietnam’s internet infrastructure. Its official website at vnnic.vn/en provides information on domain name registration, IP address management, national internet statistics, and policy developments. VNNIC also publishes performance data on national internet speeds and infrastructure, making it a valuable primary source for verifying current benchmarks rather than relying solely on third-party data.

For matters relating to telecoms licensing, service quality standards, and consumer protection within the telecommunications sector, the Ministry of Science and Technology (formerly the Ministry of Information and Communications, which was restructured in 2025) serves as the principal regulatory authority. Vietnam does not currently have an independent consumer-facing telecoms ombudsman comparable to those found in some European countries. Service complaints can be raised directly with your provider, with unresolved matters eligible for escalation to the Ministry.

The Vietnamese government has consistently treated the development of modern, secure, and efficient digital infrastructure as a national strategic priority. Politburo Decree No. 57, issued at the end of 2024, established directives for strengthening digital and technological infrastructure, and these commitments have been translated into concrete national programmes. For expats, this trajectory suggests that Vietnam’s connectivity environment will continue to improve in the years ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foreigners sign up for a home internet contract in Vietnam without a permanent residence card?

Yes. All three major ISPs — VNPT, Viettel, and FPT — accept applications from foreign nationals. You will typically need to present your passport, provide proof of your Vietnamese address (such as a rental contract or landlord letter), and supply a local phone number. A temporary residence card will strengthen your application but is not invariably required. If you are staying on a short-term visa, speak directly with the provider, as available contract lengths may differ.

How long does it take to get a home internet connection installed in Vietnam?

In major urban areas such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, the typical turnaround from application and contract signing to a live connection is two to five working days. Where fibre cabling needs to be newly installed to your unit, the process may take a little longer. Delays are less common than in many Western markets, as intense competition between providers creates strong incentives for prompt service.

Is Facebook available in Vietnam?

Facebook is generally accessible in Vietnam, although it has at times been subject to throttling or partial blocking, particularly around politically sensitive periods. As of 2025, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube are available to most users most of the time. The government retains significant legal authority to require platforms to remove content. Using a VPN may provide more consistent access if you experience speed restrictions.

Is it legal to use a VPN in Vietnam?

Using a VPN is not explicitly prohibited under Vietnamese law, and despite the government’s practice of blacklisting circumvention tools such as web proxies, VPNs are widely used by expats and businesses and appear to be broadly tolerated in practice. That said, employing a VPN to carry out activities that are themselves unlawful under Vietnamese law remains prohibited. The regulatory landscape continues to evolve, so staying informed about any changes is advisable.

Which mobile network has the best coverage across Vietnam, including outside cities?

Viettel is widely regarded as offering the strongest all-round coverage in Vietnam, including in rural, provincial, and remote areas. Its network penetration in non-urban areas surpasses that of VNPT/VinaPhone and MobiFone. For expats who plan to travel frequently or live outside major cities, Viettel is the most dependable choice.

Can I buy a SIM card at the airport when I arrive in Vietnam?

Yes. All major carriers operate kiosks in the arrival areas of Vietnam’s principal airports. Prices are marginally higher than in the city, but the process is quick — present your passport, select a tariff, and receive an activated card in around five minutes. SIM cards can also be purchased at carrier outlets, electronics stores, and supermarkets across the country.

What internet speeds can I realistically expect for remote working in Vietnam?

Vietnam’s average fixed broadband download speed stands at around 163 Mbps as of early 2025, well above the global average. Entry-level fibre plans in urban areas commonly deliver 100 Mbps or more, which is more than adequate for video conferencing, cloud-based workflows, and streaming. Upload speeds average around 25 Mbps on fixed connections, which remains sufficient for the majority of remote working requirements.

Are there data caps on Vietnamese broadband plans?

The majority of residential fixed broadband plans in Vietnam are marketed as unlimited and do not impose strict monthly data caps. However, some plans apply different speed allocations to domestic versus international traffic, meaning international bandwidth may be lower than domestic speeds during peak usage periods. Business users with high international data requirements may find that a dedicated leased-line product from VNPT or FPT Telecom International better suits their needs.