How to pay bills online in Vietnam?

How to pay bills online in Vietnam? Paying bill has become incredibly convenient and is the preferred method for most residents, including expats. The country has rapidly adopted digital payment solutions, making it easy to manage your monthly expenses.

Mobile Banking Apps (Internet Banking) – No.1 way to pay bills online in Vietnam

This is the most common and straightforward method, especially for major utility bills like electricity, water, internet, and mobile phone services.

How it works/How to pay bills online in Vietnam via mobile banking:

• Vietnamese Bank Account: You’ll need a local bank account with a Vietnamese bank (e.g., Vietcombank, Techcombank, BIDV, Agribank, ACB, Sacombank, HSBC Vietnam, Standard Chartered Vietnam).
• Mobile Banking App: Download and log into your bank’s official mobile banking application (or use their internet banking website). Most major banks have robust and user-friendly apps with English language options.
• Navigate to Bill Payment Section: Look for a section often labeled “Thanh toán hóa đơn” (Bill Payment), “Tiện ích” (Utilities), or similar.
• Select Biller/Service: Choose the type of bill you want to pay (e.g., Electricity, Water, Internet, Cable TV, Mobile Postpaid, Insurance, Tuition).
• Select Provider/Region: You might need to select the specific service provider (e.g., EVN HCMC for electricity in Ho Chi Minh City, VNPT, FPT, Viettel for internet). For utilities, you’ll also select your region or district.
• Enter Customer ID/Contract Number: This is crucial. You’ll find a unique customer ID, contract number, or meter number on your physical bill or e-bill. Input this number into the app.
• Verify Amount Due: The system will typically retrieve the outstanding amount for your bill. Verify it matches your records.
• Confirm Payment: Confirm the transaction using your PIN, OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your phone, or biometric authentication.

Key advantages when you pay bills online in Vietnam via mobile banking:

Secure, convenient (24/7 access), direct debit from your bank account, and usually no transaction fees. Many banks also offer AutoPay (Thanh toán tự động) services where you can register your biller details for automatic monthly deductions, ensuring you never miss a payment.

See also: Bargaining in Vietnam: Culture and tips for you!

E-Wallets – No.2 way to pay bills online in Vietnam

E-wallets have exploded in popularity in Vietnam and are increasingly used for bill payments, often offering a more integrated user experience.

Top E-Wallets for Bill Payments:

• MoMo: The undisputed market leader. MoMo offers a vast array of services, including payment for almost all types of utility bills (electricity, water, internet, cable TV), mobile top-ups, loan payments, insurance, flight tickets, movie tickets, and more. It’s incredibly user-friendly and widely accepted.
• ZaloPay: Integrated with Zalo, Vietnam’s most popular messaging app. ZaloPay also supports a wide range of bill payments and is known for its seamless integration within the Zalo ecosystem.
• VNPay: While often thought of as a QR code payment gateway, VNPay also has its own app and is strong in bill payments, including utilities, mobile top-ups, and flight bookings. Many bank apps integrate VNPay-QR for payments.
• Viettel Money (formerly Viettel Pay): Backed by the telecom giant Viettel, this e-wallet is popular for its comprehensive services, especially for mobile-related bills, but also covers other utilities.
• ShopeePay (formerly AirPay): Integrated with the popular e-commerce platform Shopee, it allows for bill payments and offers rewards for transactions.

How it works (similar across e-wallets):

• Download & Link Account: Download the e-wallet app and link it to your Vietnamese bank account or top up your e-wallet balance directly.
• Select Bill Category: Go to the “Bill Payment” or “Utilities” section within the app.
• Choose Biller: Select your service provider (e.g., electricity company, internet provider).
• Enter Customer ID: Input your unique customer ID or contract number.
• Verify & Pay: Confirm the amount and authorize the payment.

Key advantages:

Very convenient, often offer cashback or discounts for bill payments, and provide a centralized platform for managing various expenses.

Online Payment Gateways / Aggregators (e.g., Payoo) – No.3 way to pay bills online in Vietnam

Platforms like Payoo act as intermediaries, connecting various billers to a wide range of payment channels (bank apps, e-wallets, convenience stores).

How it works:

• You might access Payoo directly via their website or app, or your bank’s mobile app might integrate Payoo’s services.
• You select the biller, enter your bill details, and then choose your preferred payment method (bank transfer, e-wallet, credit/debit card).

Key advantages:

Provides a broad network of billers, useful if your specific bank doesn’t directly link with a particular service provider.

Essential Tips for Paying Bills Online in Vietnam:

• Get Your Customer ID: This is the most critical piece of information. Your electricity, water, internet, and cable TV bills will all have a unique customer ID. If utilities are under your landlord’s name, ask them for these numbers.
• Understand Payment Deadlines: Utility bills, especially electricity, usually have a strict payment deadline (often by the end of the month). Missing it can lead to disconnection without warning, though reconnection is usually quick once paid.
• Check Bill Availability: Bills don’t appear in the online system immediately after the billing cycle. Electricity bills often show up around the 15th of the month.
• Vietnamese Dong (VND) Account: You must use a Vietnamese Dong (VND) bank account for bill payments. USD accounts typically cannot be used for this purpose.
• Keep Records: Always save screenshots or transaction receipts as proof of payment.
• Be Aware of Scams: Only use official bank apps, reputable e-wallets, or known payment gateways. Be wary of suspicious links or requests for personal information.
• Ask for Help: If you’re new to Vietnam or struggling with the process, don’t hesitate to ask your landlord, a local friend, or a trusted colleague for assistance.
• Be Mindful of Payment Deadlines and Bill Availability: Electricity bills are usually generated and become available for online payment around the 15th of each month, and are due by the end of the month.

By utilizing mobile banking or popular e-wallets, paying bills online in Vietnam is a smooth, efficient, and secure process that saves you time and hassle.