Drone in Vietnam: What You Need to Know Before Taking Off

With its terraced rice fields, spectacular bays, misty mountains, and tropical coastline, Vietnam is a dream destination for aerial photography. More and more travelers wish to capture these landscapes using a drone. However, flying a drone in Vietnam is not something to be done on a whim. The legislation is strict, and administrative procedures can prove complex, especially for foreign travelers.

In this article, Authentik Vietnam offers you a clear and up-to-date guide to drone regulations in Vietnam, the required authorizations, customs procedures, as well as best practices to adopt in order to avoid any issues during your trip.

Are drones allowed in Vietnam?

Yes, drones are allowed in Vietnam, but their use is strictly regulated by law. Unlike many tourist destinations where recreational drones can be used freely, Vietnam applies rigorous regulations due to considerations related to national security and airspace control.

In practice, no drone flight is authorized without prior approval from the Vietnamese authorities, even for tourist, personal, or non-commercial use. This rule applies to all types of drones, whether lightweight or larger models, and regardless of flight duration.

Thus, while traveling with a drone is possible, taking off without authorization exposes travelers to sanctions, sometimes immediate. It is therefore essential to fully understand the legal framework before considering any aerial filming in Vietnam.

How to obtain a drone license and flight permit in Vietnam?

To fly a drone legally in Vietnam, an official flight permit is mandatory. This permit is issued under the supervision of the Ministry of Defense, following the review of a detailed administrative file. The application must be submitted before arriving in Vietnam.

The file generally includes precise information such as the drone model, its technical specifications, the exact coordinates of the flight locations, the planned dates, and the purpose of the filming. Any subsequent modification to the program may render the authorization invalid.

In practice, this procedure is often lengthy and not well suited to individual travelers. Processing times can extend over several weeks, and approval is never guaranteed. This is why authorizations are most often requested by local agencies, film crews, or professional operators who are already familiar with these procedures.

How to go through customs in Vietnam with a drone?

Entering Vietnam with a drone in your luggage is allowed, but customs clearance may involve specific inspections. Officers may ask to see the equipment, check the batteries, and question the traveler about the intended use of the drone during the stay.

In some cases, particularly in the absence of supporting documents, the authorities may decide to temporarily retain the drone until the traveler’s departure. This practice varies depending on the airport and the level of scrutiny applied.

To reduce the risk of complications, it is recommended to:

• carry the drone and its batteries in carry-on luggage, in accordance with airline regulations,

• favor compact and discreet models,

• remain transparent and calm when interacting with customs officers.

It is important to note that being able to enter the country with a drone does not in any way mean that its use is authorized.

Regulations and areas to avoid

Vietnamese regulations strictly prohibit flying drones over many areas considered sensitive. Some of these areas are not always clearly marked on the ground, which requires particular vigilance.

Areas to absolutely avoid include in particular:

• military and strategic sites,

• government and administrative buildings,

• embassies and official representations,

• airports and their surroundings,

• border areas.

Densely populated city centers, such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, are also subject to strong restrictions. Even in popular tourist sites, a drone flight may be considered illegal without specific authorization.

In general, it is strongly discouraged to fly a drone without local support or without prior official validation.

Where can you fly a drone in Vietnam?

Once the necessary authorizations have been obtained, certain regions of Vietnam are particularly well suited to aerial photography. Rural and mountainous areas, which are less densely populated, are generally more appropriate than major cities.

Northern Vietnam offers spectacular landscapes, especially in the regions of Hà Giang, Mù Cang Chải, or Cao Bằng, where terraced rice fields and karst reliefs are revealed magnificently from the air. Northern bays, such as Halong Bay or Lan Ha Bay, are also among the most photogenic sites in the country.

In the central and southern regions, certain coastal areas, the Mekong Delta, or Phu Quoc Island also offer beautiful opportunities, provided that local rules and authorized perimeters are strictly respected.

Penalties for non-compliance with drone flight rules in Vietnam

Failure to comply with drone regulations in Vietnam can result in serious penalties, even for foreign travelers. The authorities enforce these rules rigorously, especially in sensitive areas.

Penalties may include:

• an administrative fine,

• temporary or permanent confiscation of the drone,

• a ban on continuing the flight,

• in the most serious cases, a summons by local authorities.

Beyond the legal aspect, unauthorized flights can also negatively impact local communities and the traveler’s image. Respecting the rules is therefore essential for responsible and peaceful travel in Vietnam.

Conclusion

For the majority of travelers, it is essential to understand that simply entering Vietnam with a drone does not mean that its use is authorized. Without prior approval from the authorities, even a short flight can lead to penalties. This is why a responsible approach, respectful of local regulations and safety, is indispensable.

At Authentik Vietnam, we recommend that our clients carefully assess the real benefit of bringing a drone on their trip. When aerial footage is necessary, it is often safer and more efficient to rely on local professionals who already hold the required authorizations. In this way, you can fully enjoy Vietnam’s landscapes while traveling with complete peace of mind, in compliance with the law and with respect for local communities.

FAQ – Drones in Vietnam

Can tourists use a drone in Vietnam?

Yes, but only with an official authorization issued by the Vietnamese authorities. Without prior permission, using a drone is considered illegal, even for tourist purposes.

Is a permit required to fly a drone in Vietnam?

Yes. A flight permit is mandatory for all drones, regardless of their weight or purpose. The application must be submitted before arriving in Vietnam and approved by the competent authorities.

Is it possible to enter Vietnam with a drone?

Yes, it is possible to travel with a drone. However, customs may inspect the equipment and, in some cases, temporarily retain it if the intended use is not clearly justified.

Which areas are prohibited for drone use in Vietnam?

Prohibited areas include military sites, government buildings, embassies, airports, border areas, as well as most city centers. These restrictions may apply even in the absence of visible signage.

Where can you legally fly a drone in Vietnam?

With a valid authorization, certain rural and natural areas are more suitable, particularly mountainous regions in the north, bays, the Mekong Delta, or some lightly urbanized coastal areas.

What penalties apply for flying a drone without authorization?

Penalties may include fines, confiscation of the drone, a ban on continuing the flight, and in the most serious cases, intervention by local authorities.

Can Authentik Vietnam assist with a drone filming project?

Yes. As part of supervised or professional projects, Authentik Vietnam can guide its clients toward legal solutions, including local service providers who hold the necessary authorizations.