As you prepare for your Vietnamese adventure, understanding the landscape of roaming charges is crucial. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your mobile connectivity while exploring this vibrant Southeast Asian nation.

Are There Roaming Charges in Viet Nam?

Yes, roaming charges do exist in Viet Nam for international visitors using their home network. When you use your regular SIM card from your home country, your mobile provider will typically charge you for calls, texts, and data usage at significantly higher rates than you're accustomed to domestically. These charges can accumulate rapidly, potentially leading to an unexpectedly high bill upon your return.

When Do Roaming Charges Apply in Viet Nam?

Roaming charges in Viet Nam come into effect as soon as your device connects to a Vietnamese mobile network. This occurs when you turn on your phone after landing in Viet Nam, or when you cross the border if arriving by land. Your device will automatically search for and connect to a local network, and from that moment, any mobile service you use will be subject to your home provider's international roaming rates for Viet Nam.

Roaming Fees and Charges in Viet Nam

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

Here's a breakdown of roaming charges and plans for some major international carriers for the Viet Nam:

EE (UK): [1]

• Making a call: £1.80 per minute

• Receiving a call: £1.80 per minute

• Sending a text: 60p per text

• You'll need to purchase a data add-on upon arrival

Vodafone (UK): [2]

• Making a call: 60p per minute

• Receiving a call: 36p per minute

• Sending a text: 8p per text

• Internet: 12p per MB

O2 (UK): [3]

• Making a call: £2 per minute

• Receiving a call: £2 per minute

• Sending a text: 50p per text

• Internet: £7.20 per MB

Movistar (Spain): [4]

• Internet: €12.10 per MB

• To Spain or local numbers: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• To other destinations: €4.83 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Receiving calls: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Sending SMS to any destination: €1.21 per SMS

• Sending MMS to any destination: €4.84 per MMS

KPN (Netherlands): [5]

• Internet: €2.50 per MB

• Making a call: €1 per minute

• Receiving a call: €0.50 per minute

• Sending a text: €0.30 per text

Rogers (Canada): [6]

• $15.00 per 10 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $3.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Telstra (Australia): [7]

$10 AUD per day for "International Day Pass"

• 2 GB data

• Unlimited calls/SMS

Verizon (USA): [8]

• $2.05 per MB

• $1.79 per min

• Travel Pass: $12 per day to use your own plan

T-Mobile (USA): [9]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

Keep in mind that these charges can add up quickly, especially for longer stays, making alternatives like Roamless eSIM an attractive option for many travelers.

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in Viet Nam

You can also read our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more details. Here are some tips:

• Disable data roaming on your device to prevent accidental usage.

• Connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible for data needs.

• Use internet-based calling and messaging apps over Wi-Fi for communication.

• Consider using a Global eSIM solution like Roamless for flexible, affordable connectivity.

Roamless eSIM for Viet Nam

Roamless eSIM offers a modern solution to the roaming problem, with features particularly well-suited for travel in Viet Nam:

• No speed throttling: Enjoy full-speed data access on local Vietnamese networks.

• Pay-as-you-go flexibility: Only pay for the data you actually use.

• Funds never expire: Your balance remains valid for future trips.

• Multi-country compatibility: Perfect for travelers exploring multiple Southeast Asian destinations.

• Local network speeds: Experience the same fast connections as local users.

• Easy activation: Set up your eSIM before you leave home and activate upon arrival.

Visit our eSIM Viet Nam page or read our guide on the best eSIM for Viet Nam before planning your travel. With Roamless eSIM, you can navigate Viet Nam's digital landscape with confidence, staying connected without the worry of exorbitant roaming fees.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/vietnam

[2] https://www.vodafone.co.uk/help-and-information/costs-and-charges/travelling-abroad

[3] https://www.o2.co.uk/international/using-your-phone-abroad

[4] https://www.movistar.es/tarifas-moviles/roaming/#Vietnam

[5] https://www.kpn.com/mobiel-abonnement/bundels/buitenland.htm#bundels_tarieven

[6] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[7] https://www.telstra.com.au/international-roaming#eligible-destinations

[8] https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing/

[9] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass