What apps are the most convenient for Vietnamese to use to transfer money?

Mobile payments and e-wallets are very popular in Vietnam, here are the most common money transfer apps used by locals and their features:

1. MoMo (most mainstream)

• volume of users: more than 30 million, covering the whole country.
• functionality::
  • Support code transfer, mobile phone number transfer, bank account binding.
  • You can pay utility bills, phone bill recharge, online shopping, etc.
• cutting edge: A large number of partner merchants and a wealth of offline payment scenarios (convenience stores, restaurants, etc.).
• handling fee: Transfers between individuals are usually free of charge.

2. ZaloPay (social + payments)

• user basis: Relying on Vietnam's largest social app Zalo(similar to WeChat) with high user stickiness.
• characterisation::
  • Transfer money directly through the Zalo chat interface.
  • Support QR code payment, cross-border remittance (some countries).
• Applicable Scenarios: Small transfers between friends or merchant collections.

3. ViettelPay (telecom operator background)

• parent companies: Under Viettel, Vietnam's largest telecommunications company.

4. ViettelPay (telecom operator background)

• parent companies: Vietnam's largest telecoms company Viettel The company has a large user base.
• specificities::
  • Suitable for phone top-ups, utility bill payments, covering remote areas (relying on Viettel offline outlets).
  • Support for unbanked account transfers (mobile phone number only).
• handling fee: Some services are free of charge; fees may apply for large transfers.

5. ShopeePay (strong e-commerce scene)

• Related Platforms: The e-wallet of Southeast Asian e-commerce giant Shopee.
• Advantageous scenarios::
  • Shopee shopping payment, merchant collection, coupon credit.
  • P2P transfers require a bank card or top-up balance.

6. Bank App Direct Transfer (traditional but reliable)

Mobile apps are also widely used by mainstream banks in Vietnam, suitable for large or formal transactions:

• VCB Digibank(Vietcombank): Fast interbank transfers.
• TPBank Online/MBBank etc.:: Some banks offer fee waiver promotions.

⚠️ Notes:

1. real-name authentication: All apps require Vietnam mobile phone number + ID/passport to register.
2. Cross-border restrictions: Most support domestic transactions only, and international remittances are made through banks or third-party instruments.
3. cash social residue (accountancy): Small vendors are still cash-based.

📌 Summary Recommendation:

It is recommended to prioritise the installation of Moomo + Zalo Pay to cover most needs!