Vietnam eSIM with phone number — what’s actually possible (and when you need it)

A lot of travellers ask for a Vietnamese phone number before they even decide what they’ll use it for. In reality, most short trips run perfectly on data-only: maps, ride-hailing, messaging, tickets, hotel email—all good. This guide shows you when a Vietnam eSIM with phone number is worth it, how to get one the right way, and what to avoid so you don’t burn time at the airport.

Who actually needs a Vietnamese number?

1. Long stays or relocation where services insist on a local number for contact or delivery.
2. Business users who must be reachable on a Vietnam line for calls/SMS.
3. Landlords or local services that only accept a VN number.

If your apps accept email or in-app verification and you’re mainly touring, you’ll be happier with data-only—less admin, more trip.

Two clean paths to a number

1) Buy an eSIM SKU that includes a Vietnam number (voice/SMS). Some non-Viettel eSIMs in GoVnSIM’s catalogue include a local number. This is the fastest way to get a number without visiting a store.

Always check:

1. Is voice/SMS enabled?
2. Are incoming/outgoing calls allowed or just incoming?
3. Any fair-use notes for SMS?
4. Does the plan allow hotspot if you need it?

2) Register in person at a Viettel store (official KYC). If you specifically want a Viettel number in your name, go to an official Viettel shop with your passport. Staff will do standard ID verification, assign a number, and activate the plan (eSIM or physical SIM). This is the reliable route if you’ll use the number long term.

Common misconceptions (save yourself a detour)

1. Buying any travel eSIM does not guarantee a phone number. Check the SKU details.
2. Viettel eSIM sold by GoVnSIM is data-only—no number/OTP. If you need a Viettel number, plan the store visit.
3. An eSIM that includes a number may still have limits (e.g., SMS only, or restricted outbound). Read the fine print.

Set-up: do it once, do it right

1. Install on strong Wi-Fi at home, not airport Wi-Fi.
2. After activation, label lines clearly (e.g., “VN-Data” and “VN-Number”) to avoid routing data through the wrong SIM.
3. Set the eSIM with data as Default for Data; keep your home SIM active for WhatsApp/iMessage if you want.
4. Toggle Data Roaming ON for the eSIM line; restart once.
5. Test Maps, then send/receive an SMS on the VN number to confirm it works as expected.

Practical scenarios

1. Airbnb host or delivery needs a VN call-back: a number-included eSIM is convenient; otherwise register at a Viettel store.
2. Corporate travel with local suppliers: a VN number reduces missed calls; document the number in your email signature.
3. Tourist itinerary only: stay data-only, avoid the store detour, and keep a single clean bill.

Tiny checklist (copy to Notes)

1. Confirm the SKU explicitly includes a Vietnam number (voice/SMS).
2. Save QR + plan details (screenshot too).
3. Label lines; set Default for Data correctly.
4. Test one call and one SMS after activation.
5. Download offline maps for your first city.

One link to the right product (and stop hunting)

If you’ve decided a local number will genuinely help, start here: Vietnam eSIM with phone number. Buy the correct SKU, install at home, and you’ll land with exactly what you asked for—data plus a Vietnam number—without kiosk queues.

Bottom line

Only get a Vietnam eSIM with phone number if your itinerary truly benefits from it. Otherwise, keep life simple with data-only and enjoy your trip. If you do need a number, pick a number-included eSIM SKU or register at a Viettel store—both are clean, compliant paths that won’t bite you later.