Vietnam – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Vietnam, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Vietnam’s international telephone country code is 84. To place a call to Vietnam from another country, you dial your local international exit code (typically 00 or +), then 84, followed by the area code and the subscriber number. For calls placed domestically between different cities, you must include the Domestic Access Code (DAC), which is “0,” before the area code. When dialling from abroad, however, this leading zero is omitted. In practical terms, any Vietnamese number you see with a leading zero will have that zero dropped when you dial from outside the country.

When calling from one province or city to another within Vietnam, or when using a mobile phone, the format is 0 + area code + subscriber number. Area codes range from two to three digits, and subscriber numbers from seven to eight digits, giving all landline telephone numbers a total of 10 digits.

Below are the area codes for the cities and regions where expats most commonly settle:

Vietnam has five emergency numbers: 111 (child protection), 112 (general emergency/lifesaving), 113 (police), 114 (fire brigade), and 115 (first aid and ambulance). All of these are dialled directly without any prefix and are accessible from any phone anywhere in the country.

Mobile phone numbers in Vietnam use the format 09X-XXXXXXX, or one of the newer prefix ranges: 03X, 05X, 07X, or 08X. The initial 0 is the trunk dialling code, and the two digits that follow it identify the network operator. This means you can generally determine which carrier owns a number just by looking at its opening digits.

Who are the major landline providers in Vietnam, and how can you contact them?

Vietnam’s fixed-line telephone market is largely controlled by two state-owned corporations: VNPT (Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group) and Viettel. Both offer combined packages that bundle landline, broadband internet, and sometimes television together. A small number of regional or alternative operators exist, but VNPT and Viettel handle the overwhelming majority of residential landline connections across the country.

In Hanoi, different area code prefixes are used to distinguish between landline providers — for instance, 0242 designates a Viettel landline while 0243 indicates a VNPT landline. This is a helpful detail when registering a line or identifying landline numbers in your area.

VNPT’s VinaPhone brand holds a strong position in many urban and suburban districts and is widely used in resort areas. VNPT’s infrastructure extends to major cities, holiday destinations, and well-known islands including Phu Quoc, Cat Ba, and Con Dao. Viettel, which operates under the Ministry of Defence, maintains the broadest national network footprint overall. FPT Telecom functions primarily as an internet service provider but incorporates voice-over-internet (VoIP) landline functionality within its broadband bundles, making it a popular urban choice for households whose primary need is internet access.

Landline pricing varies according to plan type, contract length, and any bundled services included. Always verify current rates directly on each provider’s official website or by contacting their customer service team, as tariffs are subject to periodic review. The national regulator overseeing all telecommunications services is the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC).

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Vietnam, and how can you contact them?

Vietnam ranks among the strongest mobile markets in Southeast Asia. Active competition between carriers keeps prices low, and government support for digital infrastructure means that mobile internet is not only affordable but consistently performant.

While numerous mobile operators exist in Vietnam, four companies dominate the market: Viettel, Vinaphone, MobiFone, and Vietnamobile. The country also has several mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs), including Dong Duong Telecom (iTel), Mobicase (Wintel), ASIM, and VNSky.

Founded in 1995, Viettel commands close to half the national market share with a subscriber base exceeding 70 million. Its reputation for high-quality service and exceptional nationwide coverage makes it a preferred choice for both local residents and expatriates. Viettel’s infrastructure reaches approximately 99.9% of the country’s territory.

Vinaphone is Vietnam’s second-largest mobile carrier and a formidable competitor, particularly in cities and popular towns, where it is recognised for fast speeds and dependable service. MobiFone, which launched in 1993, serves over 50 million users and is well regarded for its quality and competitive pricing. Vietnamobile concentrates on budget-oriented mobile plans, though its coverage footprint is more restricted than that of the three leading operators.

In Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and other major urban centres, 4G coverage is effectively ubiquitous, and 5G rollout is already underway in city centres. In rural parts of the country, signal quality depends heavily on the operator — Viettel historically offers the strongest reach, including in mountainous regions and across the islands. All principal networks now run on 4G/LTE following Vietnam’s decommissioning of its 2G network in late 2024.

Prepaid monthly plans offering 10–20 GB of data are widely available from the major operators, with packages in that range typically priced at around $7–$12 (as of 2025) — although tariffs change frequently and you should always check each provider’s official website for up-to-date pricing. Because the state broadly regulates pricing, the headline rates across operators tend to be fairly similar rather than sharply competitive.

How do I get a landline connected in Vietnam?

Setting up a fixed-line telephone connection in Vietnam is a relatively straightforward process, especially if you live in one of the major cities. Both VNPT/VinaPhone and Viettel have well-developed urban infrastructure, and installation can often be arranged within a few days of submitting your application. The steps below apply broadly to both providers, though you should confirm current documentation requirements and fees directly with your chosen operator.

1. Choose your provider. Weigh up VNPT, Viettel, and FPT according to your location and whether you need a standalone landline or a package that includes broadband. VNPT tends to have robust infrastructure in established residential neighbourhoods; Viettel’s network offers particularly broad national reach. Review each provider’s coverage maps and current bundle pricing on their official websites before making a decision.
2. Contact the provider. Visit a local branch, call the customer service hotline (see the table above), or apply through each provider’s website. Branch staff in major cities may offer some English-language assistance, but this can be limited — if your Vietnamese is still developing, it may help to bring along a Vietnamese-speaking colleague or friend.
3. Prepare your documents. You will generally need a valid passport and a copy of it, your visa or temporary residence card, and evidence of your address in Vietnam (for example, a rental agreement or property ownership documentation). If you are renting, your landlord may need to participate in the application process, since the line is typically registered against the property.
4. Submit the application. Complete the provider’s registration form, available at branches or online. You will need to specify the type of service required (landline only or bundled), the installation address, and your preferred billing arrangement.
5. Pay any upfront fees. A connection or installation charge may apply, along with payment for the first month’s service. Deposit requirements differ between providers; check with yours for the current figures and confirm whether deposits are refundable upon cancellation.
6. Wait for installation. A technician will attend your property to install the line and any accompanying equipment, such as a router if broadband is included. In major cities, lead times are typically a few working days; in more remote locations, the wait may be longer.
7. Activate and test the service. Confirm that the line is functioning correctly and that your account is properly set up in the provider’s billing system. Keep your account reference number somewhere accessible for future use.

If you are renting a property, find out from your landlord whether a landline connection is already in place and whether a previous tenant’s line can be transferred to your name. In many Vietnamese rental apartments, landlines have become less common as mobile and fibre broadband services have taken over for most residents. Always verify current documentation requirements and applicable fees directly with your provider or through the Ministry of Information and Communications.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Vietnam?

Obtaining a mobile SIM card in Vietnam is fast, affordable, and can be done on the day you arrive — either at the airport or at any authorised operator outlet. Purchasing a prepaid SIM requires you to present your passport and complete official registration before the card can be activated. This is a strict legal requirement: unlike some countries where prepaid SIMs are sold without identity checks, Vietnam has enforced mandatory real-name SIM registration since 2016.

These rules are applied consistently: you must bring your passport and register at an official provider outlet. Small independent shops and street vendors cannot carry out proper activation on your behalf and may sell SIM cards registered to someone else’s identity. To avoid this risk, always purchase from official operator stores, airport kiosks, or authorised electronics retailers such as Thế Giới Di Động.

1. Choose a network. For the broadest coverage throughout Vietnam — including rural and mountainous regions — Viettel is the most widely recommended option. Vinaphone and MobiFone perform excellently in cities and tourist areas. If you will be spending all or most of your time in a major urban centre, any of the top three networks will serve you well.
2. Find an official point of sale. The airport is the most convenient starting point — kiosks representing all major carriers are typically found after clearing immigration. Official operator branches are also easy to find across city centres.
3. Present your passport. Registration is a legal requirement. Show your passport to the store staff, select a plan, and your SIM should be activated within about five minutes.
4. Select a plan. Tourist SIM packages are good value and arrive preloaded with data, with validity periods ranging from 7 to 30 days. If you are staying in Vietnam for more than a month or working remotely, a standard prepaid monthly plan will offer considerably better value than a tourist SIM.
5. Top up as needed. Top-up cards are available at convenience stores including Circle K and VinMart. You can also top up online through e-wallet apps such as MoMo and ZaloPay, or directly through each provider’s own app or website.

Postpaid (contract) plans are offered by all major operators but are less commonly taken up by expatriates, particularly those who do not yet hold permanent residency. Signing up for a postpaid contract typically requires a valid passport, a temporary or permanent residence card, and sometimes proof of income or employment. Newcomers who have not yet obtained the necessary residency documentation are generally better off starting with a prepaid SIM, which requires nothing more than a passport and is available immediately. This contrasts with markets like France or Germany, where postpaid contracts are the default — in Vietnam, prepaid is the standard arrangement for the majority of residents and works extremely well for long-term use.

Vietnam has begun rolling out eSIM technology, though support remains limited to major providers and newer handset models. Both Viettel and Vinaphone offer eSIM services. To activate a local Vietnamese eSIM, you must visit an official provider outlet in person with your passport; once you have chosen a number, you will be given a QR code to scan on your device. Third-party international eSIM providers such as Airalo also offer data-only eSIM plans covering Vietnam, which can be set up before you travel — though these typically do not include a Vietnamese phone number.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Vietnam?

Paying for telephone services in Vietnam is flexible and well suited to digital transactions, reflecting the country’s swift embrace of cashless payment methods. Whether you have a mobile or landline account, a variety of payment channels are available to you.

For prepaid mobile services — the choice of most expatriates — there is no conventional monthly invoice. Instead, you load credit onto your account as required and register data packages when needed. Top-up cards are on sale at convenience stores, and digital top-up is readily available through e-wallet apps such as MoMo and ZaloPay, or via provider websites. These payment platforms are extensively used throughout Vietnam and connect to local bank accounts or e-wallets. Most operator apps — including My Viettel and My VNPT — allow you to manage top-ups, check your balance, and activate new packages from your phone.

For postpaid mobile and landline accounts, billing is on a monthly cycle. Available payment methods typically include:

• Online banking or provider app — The majority of major Vietnamese banks support bill payments directly through their internet or mobile banking platforms. Provider apps also offer a self-service option and allow you to set up recurring automatic payments.
• E-wallets — Platforms such as MoMo, ZaloPay, and VNPay are broadly accepted for bill settlement and are among the most popular payment methods for Vietnamese residents.
• In-person at provider branches or post offices — Monthly bills can be paid at any official outlet of your operator, or at Vietnam Post offices, which serve as payment agents for VNPT and various other utility providers.
• Automatic direct debit — Certain operators allow you to link a bank account or e-wallet for automatic monthly deductions. Check directly with your provider to find out whether this is available and how to configure it.
• Convenience stores — Chains such as Circle K and VinMart accept utility and telecoms bill payments on behalf of the major providers.

Late payment policies differ by provider, but postpaid accounts left unpaid for a prolonged period will typically have outgoing services suspended first, with full disconnection following if the balance is not cleared. This is broadly consistent with how telecoms billing operates in most countries, though reconnection charges may apply after suspension. If you have questions about a bill or wish to contest a charge, reach out to your provider’s customer care line or visit a branch directly. For formal complaints about telecoms services, the relevant regulatory body is the Ministry of Information and Communications.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Vietnam as a newcomer?

There are a number of useful things to understand about Vietnam’s telecoms environment before you arrive or shortly after you do.

Network quality and reliability. Vietnam has dependable 4G LTE coverage across its cities and tourist regions, and 5G is progressively being introduced in areas such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Day-to-day urban connectivity is stable and fast enough to support video calls, streaming, and remote work with ease. In mountainous areas and on some of the smaller islands, signal strength can be inconsistent — Viettel’s network typically performs best in these locations.

eSIM availability. eSIM technology is still in its early stages in Vietnam, with support confined to major providers and compatible handset models. If your phone supports eSIM, Viettel and Vinaphone are the strongest local options. International eSIM services can serve as a practical temporary solution for data connectivity while you arrange a local SIM.

Number porting. Mobile number portability (MNP) — allowing you to retain your number when switching carriers — is available in Vietnam. You will need to attend a store of the new network you want to join, bringing your passport and current SIM, and the transfer process typically takes several days to complete. This is broadly similar to number porting procedures elsewhere in the region, though unlike in the UK, where the process is usually completed within a single working day, the Vietnamese process may take somewhat longer. Contact your intended new provider for current timelines and any associated fees.

International roaming. All principal mobile operators offer international roaming options, though rates differ — consult your specific operator for current roaming packages. For most expatriates, the most economical approach is to use a local Vietnamese SIM for everyday connectivity and a separate arrangement (such as an international eSIM or a roaming add-on) when travelling abroad.

Keeping a foreign number. It is not possible to port an overseas number onto a Vietnamese network. If you want to preserve access to your home country number, the best approach is to keep that SIM active on an affordable international or low-usage roaming plan, while using a Vietnamese SIM as your primary local number. Dual-SIM smartphones — extremely common in Vietnam — make running both simultaneously very easy.

Apps and messaging culture. Zalo is Vietnam’s dominant messaging application, occupying the same role in local daily life as WhatsApp does in many other countries. The majority of residents — as well as numerous businesses, landlords, and local government offices — communicate primarily through Zalo. Installing the app and registering it with your Vietnamese number will make a significant difference to your day-to-day communications. WhatsApp, Messenger, and Telegram are also in use, particularly among the international expat community.

Phone number format awareness. Each operator uses a specific range of number prefixes — for example, Viettel numbers typically begin with 032–039 or 096–098, MobiFone with 070, 076–079, 090, or 093, and Vinaphone with 081–085, 091, or 094. Recognising these prefixes helps you identify which network you are calling, which may be relevant if your plan includes on-network call discounts.

Buying a phone in Vietnam. Vietnam has a well-stocked consumer electronics market, with large chains such as Thế Giới Di Động (thegioimobile.com) and FPT Shop carrying a broad selection of smartphones. Prices are broadly in line with regional norms, and international brands are widely available. Make sure any handset you buy is either unlocked or compatible with Vietnamese network frequencies — Band 3, 7, and 28 are the most commonly used LTE bands in the country.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Vietnam?

No — porting an international number onto a Vietnamese network is not possible. That said, you can keep your overseas SIM running on an affordable international plan at the same time as using a Vietnamese SIM. Dual-SIM phones are extremely widespread in Vietnam, making it straightforward to operate both cards simultaneously and stay reachable on your home number while using a local Vietnamese number for everyday life.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Vietnam?

No fixed local address is needed to buy a prepaid SIM card. Your passport is all that is required for registration. A local address only becomes relevant when you apply for a postpaid contract, where providers may request residency documentation as part of the identity or credit verification process.

Can tourists and new arrivals without a residence card get a SIM card?

Yes — foreign nationals can purchase a prepaid SIM card from any of the major mobile operators. You will need to present your passport for the mandatory registration. A temporary residence card is not required for a prepaid SIM purchase. Postpaid contracts, however, typically call for a higher level of residency documentation.

What is the best mobile network for expats in Vietnam?

Viettel is the largest operator in Vietnam’s telecoms market and is recognised for offering the most extensive coverage, including in remote locations. For expatriates who travel throughout the country, Viettel or Vinaphone generally provide the strongest combination of reach, speed, and value. MobiFone is a solid choice for those who will be based predominantly in one of the major cities.

Is 5G available in Vietnam?

In major urban centres including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, 4G coverage is effectively complete, and 5G is already being deployed in central districts. Beyond these cities, coverage remains predominantly 4G LTE, which is fast and reliable for the vast majority of uses. Check your chosen provider’s 5G coverage map for the most current information on availability.

How do I top up a prepaid SIM in Vietnam?

Several convenient options are available: physical top-up cards sold at convenience stores such as Circle K and VinMart; online top-up through widely used e-wallet apps including MoMo and ZaloPay; direct top-up via your provider’s own app (My Viettel, My VNPT, and so on); or in person at any official provider branch. The process is quick and simple, and most operator apps offer an English-language interface.

Can I use an eSIM in Vietnam?

eSIM adoption is growing in Vietnam but remains limited to major providers and compatible phone models. Viettel and Vinaphone both support eSIM services for eligible devices. To obtain a local Vietnamese eSIM, you need to visit an official provider store in person with your passport. International eSIM providers also offer data-only Vietnam plans that can be activated remotely before you travel, which is a convenient option for new arrivals.

Who regulates telecommunications services in Vietnam?

The Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) is the government body with responsibility for regulating all telecommunications services in Vietnam, covering mobile networks, fixed-line operators, and internet service providers. If a dispute with a telecoms provider cannot be resolved directly with the company, the MIC is the appropriate authority to escalate the matter to. The legislation currently in force is Telecommunications Law No. 24/2023/QH15, which took effect on 1 July 2024.