Vietnam’s Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers

Post Published August 8, 2024

See how everyone can now afford to fly Business Class and book 5 Star Hotels with Mighty Travels Premium! Get started for free.



Vietnam's Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers - Fast and Affordable Mobile Internet Options in Vietnam





Vietnam offers a range of fast and affordable mobile internet options for travelers in 2024.

Major telecom providers like Viettel, MobiFone, and VNPT provide competitively priced prepaid SIM cards with 4G LTE speeds and data packages starting from as little as $10 per month.

The coverage is extensive, particularly in urban areas and tourist destinations, making it easy for foreign visitors to stay connected during their stay.

Vietnam's internet infrastructure has seen significant improvements, with the country ranking 62nd globally for mobile download speeds as of June 2024, reflecting the growing demand for mobile connectivity.

Vietnam's mobile internet speeds ranked 62nd globally for downloads and 66th for uploads as of June 2024, a significant improvement from previous years.

The VinaPhone Tourist SIM card, priced at only 199,000 VND (around €50), offers 1GB of data per day for 15 days, along with free domestic and international calling minutes.

Yesim, a lesser-known provider, offers flexible data plans ranging from 1 week to 1 month, catering to the diverse needs of travelers.

Despite Vietnam's population exceeding 97 million, the country's internet infrastructure has kept pace with the rising demand, resulting in a robust digital landscape.

Travelers can conveniently purchase local SIM cards at airports, convenience stores, and official outlets, ensuring seamless mobile connectivity throughout their visit.

What else is in this post?

  1. Vietnam's Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers - Fast and Affordable Mobile Internet Options in Vietnam
  2. Vietnam's Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers - Widespread Free WiFi Availability in Urban and Tourist Areas
  3. Vietnam's Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers - Improved 4G Coverage for Seamless Navigation and Social Media Use
  4. Vietnam's Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers - New Visa Policies Enabling Longer Stays for 26 Countries
  5. Vietnam's Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers - Enhanced Domestic Connectivity with Three Major Airlines
  6. Vietnam's Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers - Rise of Digital Payment Systems for Cashless Travel Transactions

Vietnam's Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers - Widespread Free WiFi Availability in Urban and Tourist Areas





Vietnam has made substantial progress in providing widespread free WiFi access, particularly in urban centers and popular tourist destinations.

Major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer numerous public spaces equipped with complimentary internet connectivity, catering to both locals and foreign visitors.

The government's commitment to digital inclusion has further emphasized efforts to expand internet availability across various public domains.

While the free WiFi access is a welcome development, travelers should remain cautious when using public networks and consider utilizing virtual private networks (VPNs) to protect their personal information.

Vietnam's major cities and tourist areas have seen a significant increase in the number of public WiFi hotspots, with many cafes, restaurants, hotels, and transportation hubs offering free internet access to visitors.

The government's push for digital inclusion has led to the implementation of free public WiFi networks in popular landmarks, parks, and other high-traffic areas, enhancing connectivity for both locals and tourists.

The average download speeds on these free public WiFi networks in Vietnam's urban centers have reached up to 100 Mbps, enabling travelers to stream content, video call, and browse the internet with ease.

Interestingly, the Vietnamese government has actively collaborated with private sector partners, such as telecom providers and tech companies, to expand the reach and reliability of free public WiFi.

Rigorous security measures, including user authentication and encryption, have been implemented on these free public WiFi networks to protect users' data and prevent unauthorized access.

The availability of free WiFi has led to the rise of a "digital nomad" culture in Vietnam, with foreign travelers and digital professionals taking advantage of the seamless connectivity to work remotely from cafes and coworking spaces.

While the widespread free WiFi accessibility is a significant convenience for travelers, experts recommend that users exercise caution when accessing sensitive information and consider using a VPN to enhance their online security.


Vietnam's Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers - Improved 4G Coverage for Seamless Navigation and Social Media Use





Vietnam's internet landscape has seen significant advancements, with a particular focus on enhancing 4G coverage across the country.

As of 2024, the government and telecom providers have worked to expand 4G networks, including in remote and rural areas, ensuring broader access to mobile internet for both residents and foreign visitors.

This improved connectivity facilitates seamless navigation, enabling travelers to use GPS and various apps for transportation, dining, and experiences without interruptions.

Additionally, the increased reliability and speed of the internet allow visitors to stay connected on social media, share their journeys, and access essential information while exploring Vietnam.

With competitive data plans from providers like Vinaphone and Viettel, as well as the availability of free public Wi-Fi, foreign travelers can now enjoy a more interactive and hassle-free experience during their visit to Vietnam.

Vietnam's mobile internet speeds have experienced a significant boost, with the country ranking 62nd globally for download speeds and 66th for uploads as of June 2024, a considerable improvement from previous years.

The government's proactive approach to addressing wave depressions in coverage has resulted in an additional 420 wave depressions being covered in 2023, further enhancing connectivity and ensuring seamless internet access for tourists.

Telecommunications providers in Vietnam, such as Vinaphone and Viettel, offer competitive data plans and packages that cater specifically to the needs of foreign travelers, making it easier to stay connected during their visit.

The combination of improved 4G network coverage and affordable internet options has positioned Vietnam as a favorable destination for visitors who require reliable connectivity for navigation, social media engagement, and other high-bandwidth activities.

The government's collaboration with private sector partners, including telecom providers and tech companies, has led to the expansion of free public WiFi networks in urban centers and popular tourist areas, with download speeds reaching up to 100 Mbps.

The rise of a "digital nomad" culture in Vietnam can be attributed to the widespread availability of free WiFi, allowing foreign travelers and professionals to work remotely from cafes and coworking spaces while exploring the country.

While the free public WiFi networks in Vietnam offer a convenient connectivity solution, experts recommend that users exercise caution when accessing sensitive information and consider utilizing a virtual private network (VPN) to enhance their online security.

The Vietnamese government's commitment to digital inclusion and the expansion of internet infrastructure have contributed to the country's improved standing in global mobile internet speed rankings, ensuring a more seamless experience for foreign travelers.


Vietnam's Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers - New Visa Policies Enabling Longer Stays for 26 Countries





In 2024, Vietnam has introduced new visa policies that allow longer stays for citizens of 26 countries, making the country more appealing for foreign travelers.

The updated policies include extended durations for both short-term and long-term visits, reflecting Vietnam's strategy to boost tourism and strengthen international ties.

These visa enhancements, coupled with the country's evolving internet landscape, are expected to facilitate a smoother travel experience and attract a growing influx of international visitors to Vietnam.

The updated e-visa policy now allows foreign tourists to apply for a 90-day visa with multiple entries, a significant increase from the previous 30-day validity.

The new policy extends the temporary stay duration for nationals from 13 countries from 15 to 45 days, providing more flexibility for longer visits.

The e-visa application process has been streamlined, with travelers now able to receive their visas online within three working days for a fee of just $

The expanded e-visa program now includes citizens of all countries, increasing the number of approved ports of entry and enhancing travel and business opportunities.

Vietnam aims to attract 8 million foreign tourists in 2023, a target that the new visa policies are expected to contribute to by making the country more appealing to international visitors.

The 26 countries that now benefit from Vietnam's visa exemption include a mix of Asian, European, and North American nations, reflecting the government's strategy to diversify its tourism market.

Interestingly, the new visa policies are part of Vietnam's broader efforts to deepen its global integration, fostering economic growth and social benefits through increased international engagement.

The visa policy updates coincide with Vietnam's ongoing improvements to its digital infrastructure, ensuring reliable internet access for foreign travelers planning to visit in

Experts suggest that the combination of extended visa durations and enhanced internet connectivity will facilitate a smoother travel experience, further bolstering Vietnam's appeal as a destination for international visitors.


Vietnam's Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers - Enhanced Domestic Connectivity with Three Major Airlines





Vietnam's aviation sector is experiencing significant enhancements in domestic connectivity, with the operations of three major airlines - Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways - expanding their routes to improve access across the country.

This increase in domestic flights promotes more efficient transportation for both locals and foreign travelers, contributing to the growth of Vietnam's tourism industry.

Vietnam Airlines plans to introduce in-flight internet access on select international flights to the US and Europe, as well as certain domestic routes, starting in 2025, offering speeds up to 60 Mbps.

By 2026, the in-flight internet capability will be expanded to all of Vietnam Airlines' aircraft, further enhancing travel convenience for passengers across the country and beyond.

Vietnam's three major airlines - Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways - are expanding their domestic route network to improve access to key cities and popular tourist destinations, facilitating more efficient transportation for locals and foreign travelers.

The expansion of domestic flights by these airlines is expected to contribute to the growth of Vietnam's tourism industry by promoting better connectivity within the country.

Vietnam's mobile internet speeds ranked 62nd globally for downloads and 66th for uploads as of June 2024, a significant improvement from previous years, benefiting both local residents and foreign visitors.

The government's collaboration with private sector partners, including telecom providers and tech companies, has led to the implementation of free public WiFi networks in urban centers and tourist areas, with download speeds reaching up to 100 Mbps.

The rise of a "digital nomad" culture in Vietnam can be attributed to the widespread availability of free WiFi, allowing foreign travelers and professionals to work remotely from cafes and coworking spaces while exploring the country.

Telecom providers in Vietnam, such as Vinaphone and Viettel, offer competitive data plans and packages that cater specifically to the needs of foreign travelers, making it easier to stay connected during their visit.

The government's proactive approach to addressing wave depressions in coverage has resulted in an additional 420 wave depressions being covered in 2023, further enhancing 4G connectivity and ensuring seamless internet access for tourists.

The combination of improved 4G network coverage, affordable internet options, and the expansion of free public WiFi networks has positioned Vietnam as a favorable destination for visitors who require reliable connectivity for navigation, social media engagement, and other high-bandwidth activities.


Vietnam's Internet Landscape A 2024 Guide for Foreign Travelers - Rise of Digital Payment Systems for Cashless Travel Transactions





Vietnam's digital payment landscape has undergone a rapid transformation, with platforms like MoMo and ZaloPay leading the charge towards a more cashless society.

The widespread adoption of these digital payment options by local businesses has made it increasingly convenient for foreign travelers to make purchases, pay for transportation, and settle bills seamlessly during their visits.

The rise of digital payment platforms like MoMo, ZaloPay, and VNPay in Vietnam has facilitated a significant shift towards cashless travel transactions, with over 70% of sellers now accepting digital payments.

The introduction of services like NAPAS 247 has enabled real-time fund transfers between banks, enhancing the efficiency of digital payment transactions for travelers in Vietnam.

Vietnam's government has actively encouraged the adoption of digital payment systems through regulatory support and public awareness campaigns, contributing to the widespread acceptance of these technologies.

Digital wallets are increasingly recognized for their security features and ability to facilitate quick transactions, making them an attractive option for foreign travelers navigating Vietnam's vibrant markets and services.

The growing trend of cashless payments in Vietnam is projected to accelerate further in 2024, as digital solutions become more ingrained in daily life and travel experiences.

The integration of digital payment systems with Vietnam's improved internet infrastructure, including widespread 4G coverage and free public WiFi, provides a seamless and convenient experience for foreign travelers.

Leading telecom providers in Vietnam, such as Viettel and MobiFone, offer competitively priced prepaid SIM cards with 4G LTE speeds and data packages, catering to the needs of international visitors.

The government's collaboration with private sector partners has resulted in the expansion of free public WiFi networks in urban centers and popular tourist areas, with download speeds reaching up to 100 Mbps.

The rise of a "digital nomad" culture in Vietnam can be attributed to the widespread availability of free WiFi, enabling foreign travelers and professionals to work remotely while exploring the country.

The updated e-visa policies, which allow for extended durations and multiple entries, are expected to further boost Vietnam's appeal as a tourist destination, complementing the country's evolving digital landscape.

The expansion of domestic flight routes by Vietnam's major airlines, such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways, is set to improve transportation connectivity and facilitate more efficient travel experiences for both locals and foreign visitors.
See how everyone can now afford to fly Business Class and book 5 Star Hotels with Mighty Travels Premium! Get started for free.