Can You Fly a Drone in Vietnam? Laws, Permits, and Travel Tips
Vietnam's beauty is perfect for drones, inspiring countless vlogs. Want to capture that cinematic footage you've seen from travel vloggers for yourself? You absolutely can!
But here's the crucial reality: drone laws here are among the toughest in Southeast Asia. And of course, no one wants their trip ruined by legal trouble. So, this guide simplifies everything for 2025/2026 travelers: from permits and customs for drones in Vietnam to the best flight zones, ensuring your aerial adventure is legal and unforgettable.
Oliver Phung is a Northern Vietnam-based tour guide and blogger. His favorite topics to write about include cuisine, culture, travel, and under-the-radar experiences. Oliver possesses a deep, detailed understanding of the region, from the indigenous culture of the Hmong in the Northwest to the highland lifestyle of the Tay in the Northeast. Whether he is exploring ancient architecture or geological landscapes, he is always eager to share his insights with his readers.
Beyond his work at Kampá Tour, he produces specialized travel content on platforms such as Reddit, Instagram, LinkedIn, and various other publications.
Yes, drones are allowed in Vietnam, but travelers should check more than just the drone’s weight.
For drones under 250g, such as DJI Mini or DJI Neo, a flight permit may not be required for recreational use outside prohibited or restricted zones. However, registration, ID number and local compliance rules may still apply from July 20, 2026.
For drones over 250g, commercial filming or flights in scenic, urban, coastal or sensitive areas, a flight permit is generally required.
Before flying, always check your drone’s weight, registration status, flight purpose, no-fly zones and local restrictions. Drone batteries must be kept in carry-on luggage, and violations may lead to fines, confiscation or other penalties.
Sources checked: Decree 288/2025/ND-CP and Circular 78/2026/TT-BCA, with Circular 78 effective from July 20, 2026.
Are Drones Allowed in Vietnam?
Yes, you can fly a drone in Vietnam, but it is not as simple as just packing it in your camera bag and taking off wherever you like.
Vietnam has quite strict drone rules, especially around airports, military areas, government buildings, border zones and crowded cities. For travelers, the first thing to check is usually your drone’s takeoff weight.
Under 250g: If you are flying for personal travel photos or videos, and you stay outside prohibited or restricted zones, a flight permit may not be required. But this does not mean there are no rules at all.
Over 250g: A flight permit is generally required, especially if you plan to fly in scenic, urban, coastal or sensitive areas. Depending on your purpose, you may also need to check registration or operator requirements before flying.
"Anchovy fishing season" by photographer Nguyen Ngoc Thien
From July 20, 2026, Circular 78/2026/TT-BCA also adds a registration layer for drones and flycams, including ID numbers and flight management devices.
So, before flying a drone in Vietnam, do not look only at the weight. Check where you want to fly, whether the area is restricted, whether your drone needs registration, and whether your flight purpose requires official approval.
What Changed in Vietnam’s Drone Rules in 2026?
Here is a quick look at what changed in 2026 and what it means for travelers bringing a drone to Vietnam.
Feature
Before 2026
2026 Update
What Travelers Should Understand
Drone weight
Older rules did not clearly separate lightweight tourist drones from heavier drones.
Decree 288/2025/ND-CP classifies drones by takeoff weight and flight purpose.
Weight still matters, especially the 250g threshold, but it is not the only rule to check.
Flight permit
Under the old system, permits were generally required for most drone flights.
For drones under 250g, a flight permit may not be required for recreational use outside prohibited or restricted zones.
A small drone can be easier to manage, but “under 250g” does not mean “no rules”.
Drone registration
Registration was not the main point travelers usually checked before flying.
From July 20, 2026, drones and flycams are managed through a national registration system under Circular 78/2026/TT-BCA.
Travelers should check whether their drone needs registration before flying in Vietnam.
ID number
There was no clear public-facing ID system similar to a registration number for each device.
After registration, each drone or flycam receives its own registration number.
This ID helps authorities identify the device and its owner.
Flight management device
This was not a key point in most tourist drone guides.
Registered devices must be fitted with a flight management device, such as an electronic stamp or electronic device containing registration information.
This is an important new compliance step from July 20, 2026.
Foreign travelers
Older tourist guides rarely explained who can register or operate a drone in Vietnam.
Under the new rules, foreign individuals may need to be residing in Vietnam or authorized by a competent Vietnamese authority.
Short-term travelers should not assume registration or flight approval is automatic, especially for planned or professional drone use.
So, Vietnam’s 2026 drone rules are clearer, but travelers should not look only at drone weight. Registration, ID number, flight management device, restricted areas and traveler status can all matter.
Drone Registration, Operator License and Flight Permit: What’s the Difference?
Many travelers use the phrase “drone license” for everything, but in Vietnam it helps to separate three different points: the drone itself, the person flying it, and the actual flight you want to make.
1. Drone registration
This is the part linked to the drone or flycam you bring into Vietnam.
Since the July 2026 update, drones and flycams are managed through a national registration system under the Ministry of Public Security. Once registered, each device receives its own ID number and must be fitted with a flight management device, such as an electronic stamp or an electronic device containing the registration information.
For foreign travelers, this part is not always straightforward. A short-term visitor should not assume registration is just a quick online form. Depending on your situation, you may need to check your eligibility or work with an authorized local partner before flying.
2. Operator license
This part concerns the person controlling the drone.
For small drones used only for casual travel photos, this may not be the biggest concern. But for heavier drones, commercial filming, professional projects or flights in sensitive areas, the person operating the drone may need to meet extra conditions.
A simple way to look at it: the lighter and more personal your drone use is, the easier it may be. The more professional, heavy or sensitive the flight is, the more carefully you should check the rules before flying.
3. Flight permit
This is permission for a specific flight, not just for owning or carrying a drone.
A flight permit usually depends on where you want to fly, when you want to fly, how high the drone will go and why you are flying. It is generally required for drones over 250g, commercial filming, professional shoots, or flights in scenic, urban, coastal or sensitive areas.
If a formal flight permit is required, the application usually focuses on your planned flight. Documents commonly requested may include:
Passport copy, or company documents for commercial use
Exact flight location, date, time and purpose
Map, coordinates or Google Maps screenshot of the planned flight area
4. Processing time and costs
Apply well in advance if a flight permit is needed, ideally at least 7–14 days before your planned flight. Approval is not automatic, and the permit is usually valid only for the approved flight details.
If approved, the license normally applies only to the specific flights, dates and locations stated in the application. Costs can vary depending on the location, flight purpose, permit duration and local handling support. As a practical reference, travelers may expect costs from around USD 350–700, or in some cases from about VND 1.5 million to VND 8 million per day or per month.
Because of the paperwork, fixed schedule and cost, formal drone permission is often impractical for casual travelers who only want a few holiday photos.
⚠️ Reality Check & How Tourists Can Get Help
For most tourists, the real question is not only “Do I need a permit?” It is also: “Is my drone eligible, is my flight area allowed, and do I need local support?”
A lightweight drone under 250g is usually easier to manage for personal travel photos, but it is not completely paperwork-free.
For professional filming, commercial content, hotel shoots, destination weddings or sensitive locations, it is best to discuss permit and registration support with a local travel agency, authorized local partner or specialized drone service before your trip. Final approval always depends on the competent Vietnamese authorities.
Bringing a Drone Through Vietnam Customs
Vietnam does not ban travelers from bringing a drone into the country, but airport checks can vary. In most cases, a personal drone is treated like camera equipment. However, customs officers may ask questions if the drone looks professional, if you carry several batteries, or if they think it could be used for unauthorized flights.
The best preparation is simple: pack it properly, keep useful documents with you, and explain your purpose clearly if asked. Here are some things we at Kampá Tour want you to know to best prepare for your trip:
1. Entry and airport checks
Do not assume that every airport will handle drones in exactly the same way. Checks can depend on the airport, the officer on duty and the current security situation.
Instead of trying to choose an “easier” airport, prepare as if your drone may be checked. It is usually easier when your drone is packed neatly and your travel purpose is clear.
You just need to comply and you will have no difficulty in the x ray scan round.
2. How to Pack Your Drone?
Keep your drone, controller and batteries in your carry-on luggage. Drone batteries should not be placed in checked baggage because of lithium battery safety rules.
Before flying, it is better to:
Remove or secure the propellers
Protect the gimbal and camera
Store batteries safely, ideally in a battery case
Keep the drone accessible in case of inspection
Carry useful documents, such as the drone invoice, technical specs, registration or flight permit if you already have them
Most consumer drones, such as DJI Mini, DJI Air and DJI Mavic models, usually use batteries under 100 Wh. Still, check the battery label and your airline’s rules before departure. Batteries from 100 to 160 Wh may require airline approval, while batteries over 160 Wh are usually not allowed on passenger aircraft.
3. If Customs Asks
Answer simply and honestly. For example, you can explain that the drone is for personal travel photos or videos. If you already have registration, a flight permit or other supporting documents, keep them ready to show.
Do not hide the drone or give unclear answers. This can create more problems than the drone itself.
4. What could happen?
Many travelers pass through without detailed questions. Sometimes, officers may ask about the drone, remind you about local rules, or ask for documents. In more complicated cases, the drone may be held temporarily until you provide the required papers, or until you leave Vietnam.
Full confiscation is not the usual outcome for most travelers, but it can happen if the drone is linked to unauthorized flying, missing documents or security concerns.
Tips to prepare for airport checks
Bring a small consumer drone if it fits your travel needs, but remember that under 250g does not mean rule-free.
Pack the drone neatly, as you would with camera equipment.
Keep batteries in carry-on luggage.
Be ready to explain your purpose clearly.
Drones are also not allowed in airport areas
What Happens If You Don’t Follow the Flight Rules?
According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, failure to comply with drone regulations can lead to administrative sanctions, including fines and additional penalties. Fines can range from VND 1,000,000, about USD 40, to VND 100,000,000, about USD 4,000, depending on the severity of the violation and whether the violator is an individual or an organization.
Besides fines, authorities may also confiscate the drone, related equipment or evidence, and any flight permission already granted may be revoked.
Gun to shoot down drones of the Vietnam People's Army - Image source: Dân trí
Under the new registration rules, problems may not only come from flying in the wrong place. They may also involve missing registration, no ID number or no flight management device where these requirements apply.
In sensitive areas, especially near military sites, government buildings, border zones or politically important locations, the consequences can be much more serious. Authorities may stop the flight immediately, seize the device, or use specialized anti-drone equipment, such as the CA-18GL drone gun, if they consider the flight a security risk.
Where to Buy & Repair Drones in Vietnam?
Where to Buy Drones?
Major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City have official DJI authorized stores, such as DJI by VJO or DJI Store Vietnam. These stores usually offer new drones, propellers, batteries, ND filters and other accessories.
Important note: Buying from an official store helps ensure genuine products, but standard warranties may be valid only in Vietnam. For better international coverage, you can ask about DJI Care Refresh at the store.
Before using a drone bought in Vietnam, ask the seller about registration, ID number and legal-use requirements.
Where to Repair?
In case of a crash or technical issue, you can find specialized drone repair shops in major cities. Search for “Sửa flycam” on Google Maps to find local repair services.
Many shops can handle common problems such as gimbal errors, broken arms, propeller damage or water exposure. In some cases, repairs in Vietnam can be faster and more affordable than sending the drone back to the manufacturer.
Where Can You Fly a Drone in Vietnam?
Once you understand the basic rules, the next question is where you can actually fly. In Vietnam, a beautiful place is not always a legal place to launch a drone, so always check the no-fly map, local restrictions and your planned flight purpose first.
Things to note before flying drones in Vietnam.
📢 NEW OFFICIAL MAP (2026 UPDATE): The Ministry of Defense has officially released a digital map showing prohibited and restricted areas for drones.
Check it here:cambay.mod.gov.vn (Note: Look for Red Zones (Prohibited) and Yellow Zones (Restricted). If your hotel falls in a Red Zone, keep the drone in your bag!)
Map of areas in Vietnam where drone flights are permitted and prohibited
Off-Limits and Caution Zones
Major Cities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang)
Heads up: Be extremely cautious, or better yet, avoid flying your drone in dense urban areas altogether.
Why: Vietnamese law generally forbids city flights without a high-level permit. These areas often have visible police and military presence.
Risk: While skyline shots of Hanoi's Old Quarter or downtown HCMC might be tempting, it's genuinely not worth the risk. Authorities do monitor drones, and you could easily be stopped. There have been cases of both locals and tourists flying in cities and facing questioning. Plus, it's simply unsafe due to crowds and obstacles.
Drone demonstration by competent authority in Hanoi
Near Military or Government Sites
Rule: Always steer clear of any potentially sensitive areas (such as treasury offices, the National Assembly building, embassies, etc.)
Examples: This isn't just obvious military bases or police stations. It also includes border regions (like the Lung Cu Flagpole area in Ha Giang, or Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang near China), seaports, dams, and more.
What to do: If you see signs saying "Khu vực cấm" (Restricted Area) or "cấm flycam" (no drones allowed), heed them strictly. Locals can also clue you in if an area is sensitive. Don't assume a beautiful spot is fine if it's near a military radar station, communications tower, or government compound. This also applies to coastal areas that might be militarily sensitive; for example, Cam Ranh Bay (a military port) would be off-limits.
The photos you see taken at Lung Cu flag pole Ha Giang
are usually high-level licenses from the national media agency licensed to do so
Often called a "drone heaven", these regions boast dramatic rice terraces, winding roads, and misty mountains. These rural areas offer spectacular vistas with relatively few ground restrictions.
>>> My advice: Fly in remote spots away from town centers, avoid border zones, and be respectful of local villagers and farmers. Early morning or late afternoon light works best for terraced landscapes.
The iconic limestone karst islands make for unforgettable aerial views.
Though it's a UNESCO site, drones are often flown here, usually from tour boats or viewpoints.
>>> Heads Up: Always check with your boat crew or tour guide as some cruises allow drones at specific times. Be mindful of other tourists and signal interference near cliffs.
Central Vietnam & Central Coast (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang surroundings)
The countryside around Hoi An and Hue is generally drone-friendly.
You should consider the rice paddies of Cam Kim Island and Tra Que Vegetable Village when they're not crowded. An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach at sunrise are great for coastal shots.
Enjoy the special event "Light up the sky" in Hoi An ancient town
The broader central coast (around Hue or Lang Co Lagoon) offers wide, open beaches, lagoons, and fishing villages.
>>> Best Time: Always fly in the early morning and sunset for fewer people and calmer winds.
Beyond its main resorts, Phu Quoc offers jungles, waterfalls, and fishing villages suitable for drone flights.
Many travelers report flying drones on its beaches without issues.
>>> Be Aware: Parts of Phu Quoc have military bases (as it's a border island near Cambodia). Research specific spots or ask locals/tour guides for advice.
Stunningly beautiful Phu Quoc Island when viewed from above
Do I need a license for a DJI Mini 4 Pro or DJI Neo in Vietnam?
Usually, no flight permit is needed for drones under 250g, like the DJI Mini series or DJI Neo, when used for recreation outside prohibited or restricted zones. However, under 250g does not mean completely rule-free. Registration, ID number or local compliance requirements may still apply under the new rules.
Will customs confiscate my drone at the airport?
It is uncommon for personal travel drones to be confiscated on arrival. However, to avoid trouble, always keep your drone and batteries in your carry-on luggage. If you bring a larger drone, especially over 250g, without clear documents or a pre-approved permit, customs may ask questions or require the drone to be stored at the airport until your departure.
Can I fly my drone in Ha Long Bay?
Yes, but with restrictions. Ha Long Bay is not a total no-fly zone, but harbor areas, busy cruise routes, caves and crowded spots often restrict drones. The best chance is usually when you are out on the water, away from crowds and boats. Always check with your cruise manager first, as some cruises only allow drone flights from the sundeck at specific times.
Can I fly in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City centers?
Don’t do that. Most city centers include restricted airspace, government buildings and high-density areas. Flying there carries a high risk of fines, confiscation or other trouble. If you want aerial shots, look for open areas on the outskirts, such as rice fields or riversides, and check local rules first.
Is drone insurance mandatory in Vietnam?
No. Insurance is not usually required for recreational drone flights in Vietnam. However, accidents happen, especially over water, mountains or crowded places, so international liability insurance or DJI Care Refresh is highly recommended for peace of mind.
Can I fly a drone at the Golden Bridge (Ba Na Hills)?
No, do not plan to fly there. Sun World Ba Na Hills, home of the Golden Bridge, has strict safety controls, cable cars and large crowds. Security staff may screen bags at the cable car entrance and may refuse drone equipment depending on the site policy at the time of your visit.
Is it polite to film locals with a drone?
Vietnamese people are generally friendly, but privacy matters. Always ask for permission before filming close-ups, especially in ethnic minority villages, private homes, farms or religious sites.
⚠️ Caution: In remote areas, locals may not recognize drones and may see them as a threat or nuisance. There is a real risk of your drone being targeted if it flies too low over homes or people. Please fly respectfully and keep a safe distance.
Conclusion
Vietnam is a wonderful destination for drone photography, but you need to be aware of the strict regulations. Obtaining a flight permit can be a complex and costly process, but with proper preparation, you can still capture stunning footage safely and legally.
If you want to simplify the entire procedure, Kampá Tour can help travelers understand the latest drone rules and coordinate with local partners where permit or registration support is available. Final approval always depends on the competent Vietnamese authorities.
Hi, planing to bring my Dji neo 2 (only 150 gram) from Malaysia direct flight to dalat airport, can go without permit?
0Reply
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Oliver Phung02 Dec 2025
Hi, Ryan Jee.
🚁 Bringing a 150g Drone into Vietnam: What to Note?
About Entry (Customs):
Formal: According to Vietnamese law, all drones (including 150g) require an Import License from the Ministry of National Defense. This is a complicated procedure.
Reality: In reality, ultra-light drones under 250g are often unofficially exempted and allowed to be brought in without being detained at the airport. However, the risk of being checked and detained still exists.
About Use (Flying in Da Lat):
Flight License: Your 150g device (for entertainment) is exempt from a Flight License under the new Decree (288/2025/ND-CP). This is a big plus!
However (MUST DO): You are required to fly outside of the Prohibited/Restricted areas (such as near Lien Khuong airport, military areas, government agencies). You are also advised to notify local authorities before flying.
➡️ Conclusion & Advice:
You can bring it without permission with low risk, but you must ABSOLUTELY comply with the rules on where to fly when in Da Lat.
Would you like me to provide some major no-fly zones around the Da Lat area so you can plan your trip safely?
0Reply
A
Amir Abd02 Jan 2026
what about Malaysia coming this month from Dubai so what is the process ? DJI Flip 249 g
0Reply
Oliver Phung12 Jan 2026
Hi Amir Abd, Welcome to Vietnam! Since you are bringing a drone that weighs 249g (under the 250g limit), the process is very simple for you:
Permit: You are EXEMPT from the flight permit requirement. No paperwork is needed for recreational flying.
Customs: Carry your drone and batteries in your carry-on luggage. You generally do not need to declare it if it's for personal travel use.
Safe travels! - Oliver.
0Reply
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Keeley11 Sep 2025
I just wanted to enquire about the drone permit for flying in Vietnam, more specifically around Da Nang, Hot an and Hue. We have a DJI mini 4 drone that weighs 2.49kg and has a camera, we will be flying this for recreational purposes - mainly in areas where there are no crowds.
We would like to gain some information regarding the process of registering for a permit and if there any further actions we need to take. We will be in Vietnam between 18th September - 17th October.
0Reply
K
Kampá Tour15 Sep 2025
Dear Keeley,
To obtain the required drone license, please submit your application through the official DJI website. Your application must be completed at least 10-14 days prior to your first flight in Vietnam.
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Hi, Ryan Jee.
🚁 Bringing a 150g Drone into Vietnam: What to Note?
About Entry (Customs):
About Use (Flying in Da Lat):
➡️ Conclusion & Advice:
You can bring it without permission with low risk, but you must ABSOLUTELY comply with the rules on where to fly when in Da Lat.
Would you like me to provide some major no-fly zones around the Da Lat area so you can plan your trip safely?
Hi Amir Abd, Welcome to Vietnam! Since you are bringing a drone that weighs 249g (under the 250g limit), the process is very simple for you:
Safe travels! - Oliver.
Dear Keeley,
To obtain the required drone license, please submit your application through the official DJI website. Your application must be completed at least 10-14 days prior to your first flight in Vietnam.
Sincerely, Oliver!