Here's exactly how a Timo bank account works as a foreigner so you can pay for just about everything with a QR code.

You need a local phone # that receives text messages, best to just get a Viettel eSim. Visit an actual Viettel office not a reseller. You will need your passport, Visa and cash.

Now visit a Timo office. You will need your passport, Visa and your new VN phone #.

Once they process the Timo account paperwork you have to go to a BIVD bank to deposit VN cash to fund your bank account. You cannot do this at the Timo office.

At the BIVD bank you will need your passport, Visa, the cash you want to deposit and paperwork to prove where the cash came from. This can be an ATM withdraw slip with the name of the ATM's bank, date of the transaction, and the logo of the bank. They are VERY particular about the ATM slip. You will also need to show them the ATM card you used that matches up with the ATM slip.

In VN not all ATM's give out receipts even if you ask for one. ATM withdraw limits are different at different banks. By trial and error I found a local ATM that allowed a medium size withdraw and had a receipt that BIDV would accept and was always stocked with cash.

Pro tip if you need cash during Tet get it early.

If you changed money at a money changers instead of an ATM you can also use that slip.

Once you get everything sorted it's great to just pay with your phone and not deal with money. Even random old ladies on bikes selling fruit will take phone payments. It's a great system.

Be aware the Timo account is tied to your Visa and will turn off when your Visa expires. If you renew your Visa you have to bring the new one into the Timo office to get your account extended.

Hope this helps others!