Can you buy a local SIM card on arrival at Ho Chi Minh City airport, and should you pay in cash or by QR/card?
Based on 2 discussions with 2 participants · Last activity: 15 days ago
TL;DR
Yes, you can usually buy a local SIM card on arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN), especially in the international arrivals area. Cash in VND is the safest option, because QR payments in Vietnam often require a local banking app and may not work for international travelers.
What the community said
You can usually buy a SIM card right after landing at Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN), most commonly in the international arrivals hall. The easiest option for travelers is to get a tourist package from a major carrier such as Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobifone at an airport counter.
15 days ago Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN), Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone
If you plan to buy a SIM at the airport, it is better to carry some Vietnamese dong in cash. QR payments in Vietnam often depend on local banking apps, so they may be inconvenient or unavailable for foreign cards and international visitors.
15 days ago Cash in VND
Yes, airport SIMs are available, but prices are often higher than in the city. If you do not need mobile data immediately after landing, you may get a better deal at an official Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobifone shop in Ho Chi Minh City, or set up an eSIM before the trip.
15 days ago Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone, eSIM