Can You Fly a Drone in Vietnam? Laws, Permits, and Travel Tips

Are Drones Allowed in Vietnam?

Yes, technically it is completely legal to fly drones in Vietnam, but to do so, you must clearly understand and comply with the laws set by the competent authorities. The core legal fact is that the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV), under directives from Vietnam’s Ministry of Defense, states that all drone flights require an official permit or license from the government. This stringent requirement makes Vietnam one of the more restrictive countries for drones, as outlined by various Vietnamese government decrees (such as Decree 36/2008 and 79/2011, which set strict conditions for airspace management).

• While detailed rules are complex, here are a few primary restrictions:
• You must obtain official permission for every flight you intend to make.
• No flying over military or government sites, or in designated no-drone zones (which often include large parts of major cities, borders and historical areas).
• Flights are only permitted during daylight hours and in good weather conditions, maintaining an altitude of under 120 meters (approximately 400 feet).
• Larger drones (typically over 25 kg / 55 lbs) are generally not permitted for recreational use.

So, before you pack your drone, it's crucial to understand Vietnam's drone regulations. Knowing the rules will help ensure your trip is smooth and enjoyable, avoiding any unnecessary complications.

How Can I Get a Drone License and Permit?

Did you know that even if you are a tourist, you can still apply for a drone license in Vietnam? Below are the procedures and steps you need to prepare for applying for a flight license.

📄 Documents to prepare:

• Application Form: Fill out a Vietnamese-language Special Flight License form.  Click here to download form!
• Drone & Personal Docs: Provide color photos and technical specs of your drone, plus a notarized copy of your passport (or company registration for commercial use). Here
• Flight Details: Clearly specify exact flight locations (with Google Maps image), dates, times, and purpose of flight.
• Submission: Submit all documents to the Department of Operations of the General Staff (Ministry of National Defense) at No. 1 Nguyen Tri Phuong Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi.

⏳ Processing time:

• Apply at least 7-14 days before your planned flight.

💰 Approval & Costs:

• If approved, you receive a license valid only for specified flights. Costs are high, ranging from $350-$700 USD (or VND 1.5M - 8M) per day/month, making it impractical for casual tourists.

Bringing a Drone Through Vietnam Customs

Vietnam does not outright ban drones on planes, but customs officials have the right to detain or confiscate drones if they believe you do not have the proper permits or that the device poses a security risk. Here are some things we at Kampá Tour want you to know to best prepare for your trip:

1. Entry & Airports

• Regulations: Bringing personal drones isn't explicitly banned, but enforcement can vary.
• Hanoi (Noi Bai) & Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat): Usually smooth. Drones pass X-ray normally, and you'll rarely be questioned.
• Da Nang: Be more cautious. This airport is known for stricter enforcement. Consider flying into HCMC or Hanoi first if possible.

2. How to Pack Your Drone?

• Always carry: The drone and its battery must always be kept in carry-on luggage and must be removed from the aircraft to avoid fire.
• Main reasons: Airline battery safety regulations (lithium), reducing the risk of loss/damage, and easier customs inspection.

3. If Customs Asks

• Be honest: Make it clear that your drone is for travel photography. And show your approved Vietnam drone registration.
• Don't smuggle: Never lie or hide your drone; it will lead to much bigger trouble.

4. Possible Outcomes (Result)

• Best Case: They wave you through without questions.
• Mid-Range: They remind you about permits, let you keep the drone, but give a warning.
• Worst Case: Your drone's held at the airport until you show a permit, or you might have to leave it behind until you depart (and pick it up then). Full confiscation is rare.

What Happens If You Don’t Follow the Flight Rules?

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, failure to comply with laws related to drones can result in administrative sanctions, including fines and additional penalties. Fines can range from VND 1,000,000 (approx. $40 USD) to VND 100,000,000 (approx. $4,000 USD), depending on the severity of the violation and whether the violator is an individual or an organization.

In addition, violators may also have their evidence or means of violation confiscated or have their flight license revoked. In areas related to military and politics, the consequences are more severe: your drone may be shot down by a specialized drone gun (CA-18GL) or even with bullets if necessary.

Where Can You Fly a Drone in Vietnam?

If you've navigated these steps, congratulations! You're well on your way. However, don't forget our key notes, because next, we'll cover both the areas where you shouldn't fly drones and the best spots to get those shots you've seen in travel vloggers' YouTube footage!

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.

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.

Best Drone Spots in Vietnam

Northern Mountains (Hà Giang, Mù Cang Chải, Sa Pa, Cao Bằng)

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.

Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay

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.

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.

Mekong Delta

This vast, rural southern region is excellent for aerial shots of its rivers and expansive rice fields.

Capture unique scenes like floating markets, palm-fringed canals, and patchwork fields.

>>> Important: Avoid flying over towns like Can Tho without permission, and watch out for birds, the delta has many that might not appreciate a drone!

Phu Quoc Island

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.

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 not only provides tours specifically tailored to each individual, but also offers free flight permit application support when you book a tour with us. We will handle everything, so you can focus solely on your creative work. Contact us today for detailed and professional advice!

Sources referenced: UAV Coach, CAAV, Vanbanphapluat.

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