A Complete Guide to Vietnamese Code

The term Vietnamese code goes far beyond the simple +84 country calling prefix. It encompasses a wide range of systems used for international connectivity, including dialing, postal, and ISO codes. This comprehensive guide unpacks every layer of the Vietnamese code to help you understand, apply, and navigate it with confidence. Read on to decode it all.

1. What Is the Vietnamese Code?

The term Vietnamese code often refers to the country’s international dialing code, +84, which is officially assigned by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) under the E.164 numbering standard. Like Vietnam, each country is given a unique code, such as +81 for Japan, +1 for the United States, and +66 for Thailand, to ensure consistent global communication.

Each country is given a unique code to ensure consistent global communication. (Source: Freepik)

2. Vietnam Country Code Dialing Instructions

Here are the step-by-step dialing methods for making calls both into and within Vietnam, fully aligned with international and local telecom standards.

2.1. Calling Vietnam from Abroad

When calling a Vietnamese number from overseas, follow this format:

International Exit Code + 84 + Vietnamese number (drop the leading 0)

For example:

If you want to call a Hanoi mobile number like 0987654321 from the U.S.: 011 (U.S. exit code) + 84 + 987654321

Key Notes:

• Always drop the initial “0” from the local Vietnamese number.
• Vietnam’s international exit code can be dialed as 00 84... in many countries.

Make sure you have the right International Exit Code

2.2. Making a Domestic Call Inside Vietnam

For calls between different provinces or using a mobile, use the format:

0 + area code + local number

Example:

Calling a landline in Da Nang (area code 236) from Ho Chi Minh City: 0 236 xxxxxx

Key Notes:

• Do not include the country code (+84) for national calls.
• Omit the area code only when calling within the same region.

It is easier to make a call inside Vietnam (Source: Freepik)

2.3. Calling from Vietnam to Other Countries

To dial abroad from Vietnam, use:

International Access Code (00) + Country Code + Area Code + Local Number

Example:

If you want to call a person in Tokyo, Japan (country code 81): 00 81 3 xxx xxxx

Key Notes:

• Use "00" for most countries.
• Alternatively, mobile users can prefix with "+" and skip the "00".

You have to add three other codes before dialing the local number (Source: Freepik)

2.4. Common Domestic Mobile Network Prefixes

Vietnam’s main telecom operators have distinct prefix ranges. Here's a quick reference:

3. Other types of Codes in Vietnam

Beyond the telephone country code, Vietnam uses an array of standardized codes essential for commerce, logistics, and international operations. These include ISO country codes, postal codes (zip codes), and airport identifiers.

3.1. Vietnamese ISO Code

Vietnam is designated by internationally recognized ISO 3166-1 country codes:

• Alpha-2: VN
• Alpha-3: VNM
• Numeric: 704

These codes are critical in global trade and administration. They appear on commercial invoices, customs documents, and import/export forms, and are used in statistical systems managed by institutions like the United Nations, World Bank, and International Monetary Fund.

3.2. Postal Code (Zip Code)

Vietnam’s postal code system uses a six-digit format, introduced in 2017 to improve mail and parcel sorting. The first two digits represent the province or centrally governed city, the next two define the district or town, and the final two correspond to wards or communes. A selection of codes for major urban centers includes:

3.3. Vietnam Airport Codes (IATA)

Vietnam’s major airports are assigned three-letter IATA codes, which are essential for flight booking, tracking, and logistics. Below are the internationally recognized airports:

From dialing codes and postal systems to ISO identifiers and IATA airport labels, the Vietnamese code spans far beyond just +84. It reflects how Vietnam connects with the world through communication, logistics, travel, and international standards. Whether you are planning a business transaction, mailing a package, or simply booking a flight, understanding these codes will make your Vietnam journey smoother and more informed.

To explore more travel insights or get expert consultation on flights to Vietnam, visit Vietnam Airlines’ official website. Let your next trip be as well-coded as it is well-planned.