How to install a Vietnam eSIM on iPhone and Android

Updated

Installing takes a couple of minutes and is best done at home, on Wi-Fi, a day or two before you fly. You scan a QR code once, the eSIM sits on your phone switched off, and you turn it on for data when you land in Vietnam.

Before you start

  • Your phone must support eSIM and be carrier-unlocked. If you're not sure, check your phone in 10 seconds.
  • Connect to Wi-Fi. The eSIM downloads over the internet.
  • Show the QR code on a second screen (a laptop or tablet), or print it. You can't scan a code shown on the same phone; for that case your email also has the details for manual entry.
  • Don't delete the eSIM after installing it. Most QR codes work only once.

Install on iPhone

  1. 1Open Settings › Mobile Data (called Cellular in the US) › Add eSIM.
  2. 2Choose Use QR Code and scan the code from your email.
  3. 3Name the new line "Vietnam" so you can tell it from your home line.
  4. 4For Default line, keep your home line for calls and messages. For Mobile Data, you can choose Vietnam now or after you land.
  5. 5Turn off Allow Mobile Data Switching, so your phone doesn't use your home plan's data by mistake.

Install on Samsung Galaxy

  1. 1Open Settings › Connections › SIM manager.
  2. 2Tap Add eSIM, then Scan QR code from service provider.
  3. 3Scan the code and confirm. Name the line "Vietnam".
  4. 4Under Mobile data, choose the Vietnam line when you arrive.

Install on Google Pixel and other Android phones

  1. 1Open Settings › Network & internet › SIMs.
  2. 2Tap Add SIM or the plus sign, then Download a SIM instead.
  3. 3Scan the QR code and follow the prompts.
  4. 4On arrival, open the Vietnam SIM and turn on Mobile data.

Menu names vary a little between Android brands and versions. If you can't find them, search Settings for "eSIM".

When you land in Vietnam

  1. 1Switch mobile data to the Vietnam line.
  2. 2If your setup email says the line needs data roaming or an APN, turn on Data Roaming for the Vietnam line only, or enter the APN it gives.
  3. 3Keep your home line on if you want calls and SMS codes from your bank or apps. Turn off data roaming on the home line so it doesn't run up charges.

No signal or no internet?

  • Turn airplane mode on for ten seconds, then off.
  • Check that mobile data is set to the Vietnam line, not your home line.
  • Check the data roaming and APN settings from your setup email.
  • Restart the phone.
  • Still stuck? Message us on WhatsApp with a screenshot of your mobile data settings. If the eSIM can't work on your compatible, unlocked phone, you get a full refund.

Haven't got your eSIM yet? Choose a plan. Wondering whether you'd be better off with a SIM card from the airport? Read eSIM vs airport SIM card.