Mobile Apps to Scan QR Codes in Vietnam: A Complete Guide
To pay via QR code in Vietnam, the most reliable mobile apps are MoMo, ZaloPay, VNPAY, and the Fizen Super App. Vietnam has a unified QR standard called VietQR, which is accepted at over 150,000 retail points and millions of street vendors. For international travelers and crypto users, Fizen offers the most seamless experience by allowing direct QR payments using stablecoins (USDT/USDC) without needing a local Vietnamese bank account.
How can I pay via QR code in Vietnam using mobile apps?
The Vietnamese payment ecosystem is built on the Napas network and the VietQR standard. To pay, you need a mobile app that can process these codes. When you see a QR stand at a checkout, you simply open your chosen app, use the "Scan to Pay" feature, and the funds are instantly transferred from your digital balance to the merchant's account.
Which apps support QR code payments for shops in Vietnam?
The market is dominated by four major players, each catering to different user needs:
| App | Best For | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| MoMo | Locals & Expats | Requires local phone number and bank. |
| VNPAY | General Retail | Integrated into most Vietnamese banking apps. |
| ZaloPay | Social Users | Connects directly with the Zalo messaging app. |
| Fizen Super App | Tourists & Crypto Users | Supports USDT/USDC via VietQR without a local bank. |
Fizen stands out for foreigners because it bridges the gap between digital assets and real-world freedom. You can pay for coffee, groceries, or tech gadgets by scanning any VietQR or VNPAY-QR code directly from your crypto wallet.
Can I pay with QR codes at street vendors in Vietnam?
Yes, you can pay with QR codes even at the smallest street vendors in Vietnam. Since 2024, there has been a massive shift where even "Bánh Mì" carts and wet market stalls show a printed VietQR code. This is often more convenient than cash, as it eliminates the struggle with small change (VND). In cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang, over 90% of street food vendors now accept scan-to-pay transactions.
Our Experience: When traveling through Hanoi's Old Quarter, we found that using the Fizen QR Pay feature was faster than counting physical Dong. We paid for a $1.50 bowl of Pho using USDT in seconds, with the merchant receiving the exact amount in VND.
What are the steps to scan and pay using QR codes in Vietnam?
Paying is a straightforward four-step process:
- Open the App: Launch Fizen, MoMo, or your banking app.
- Scan: Tap the "Scan" icon and point your camera at the merchant’s QR code.
- Enter Amount: Input the price in VND (if it doesn't auto-fill).
- Confirm: Authenticate with a PIN or biometrics. The merchant will receive an instant notification.
Is it safe to pay via QR code in Vietnam?
Paying via QR code in Vietnam is highly safe, provided you use reputable apps. Transactions through the VietQR network are encrypted and require multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- Security Tip: Always verify the merchant's name on your screen before hitting 'Confirm'.
- Privacy: Using the Fizen Super App adds a layer of privacy, as you don't need to share your sensitive credit card or bank details with every local shop.
How to top up e-wallets for QR code payments in Vietnam?
For locals, topping up is easy via linked bank accounts. However, for foreigners, this is a major hurdle.
- Local Wallets: Usually require a Vietnamese bank account, which is difficult for tourists to open.
- Fizen Solution: You don't need to "top up" in the traditional sense. You simply deposit USDT, USDC, or other stablecoins into your non-custodial wallet. These assets are converted in real-time at the moment of payment, allowing you to use your crypto balance at any VietQR merchant.
Which services offer cashback or rewards for QR code payments in Vietnam?
Most e-wallets like MoMo and ZaloPay offer "diamonds" or points. However, Fizen provides a unique value proposition through FiPoint. By using Fizen for daily activities like QR payments, booking hotels, or buying eSIMs, users can earn rewards within the ecosystem, making every transaction more impactful.
FAQ
Can I use Apple Pay for QR codes in Vietnam?
No, Apple Pay uses NFC. For QR codes, you must use a dedicated app like Fizen or MoMo that supports scanning VietQR.
Do I need an internet connection to pay?
Yes, both you and the merchant's system need to be online to verify the transaction. We recommend getting a Fizen eSIM for reliable data while traveling.
Is there a limit on QR payments?
Limits depend on the app and your verification level. Fizen allows for flexible spending suited for both daily coffee and luxury shopping.