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 comply with the latest regulations set by the Ministry of National Defense. The good news for 2026 is that the rules have become more tourist-friendly under the new Government Decree 288/2025/ND-CP.

Unlike the old strict laws (Decree 36/2008), which required permits for every single flight, the new regulation categorizes drones by weight:

• Under 250g: No flight permit required (subject to No-Fly Zones).
• Over 250g: Official permit required for every flight.

However, strictly enforced restrictions still apply to ALL drones regardless of weight:

• No-Fly Zones: Strictly no flying over military sites, government buildings, airports, and borders.
• Flight Conditions: Only fly during daylight hours and maintain an altitude under 120 meters (approx. 400 feet).

So, before you pack, check your drone's weight. Knowing the rules will ensure your trip is smooth and free of legal trouble.

What Changed Between Vietnam’s Drone Laws in 2026? (Old Decree 36 vs. New Decree 288)

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.

🔋 Airline Battery Regulations (Specific for Vietnam Airlines/Vietjet): To avoid being stopped at the gate, check your battery's Watt-hour (Wh) rating:

• < 100 Wh: OK (Allowed in carry-on, quantity unlimited).
• 100 - 160 Wh: Approval required (Max 2 spare batteries per passenger).
• > 160 Wh: Forbidden on passenger aircraft. (Note: Most consumer drones like DJI Mini, Air, and Mavic 3 have batteries under 100 Wh).

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 to Buy & Repair Drones in Vietnam?

Where to Buy Drones? 

Major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) have official DJI authorized stores (look for DJI by VJO or DJI Store Vietnam). These stores offer everything from new drones to accessories (propellers, batteries, ND filters).

>>> Important Note: While buying here ensures genuine products, standard warranties are often valid only in Vietnam. For international coverage, we highly recommend purchasing DJI Care Refresh at the store.

Where to Repair? 

In case of a crash, Vietnamese technicians are notoriously skilled and affordable. You can find specialized drone repair shops (search for "Sửa flycam" on Google Maps) in major cities. They can often fix gimbal errors, broken arms, or water damage much faster (and cheaper) than sending it back to the manufacturer.

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!

📢 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!)

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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need a license for a DJI Mini 4 Pro/Neo in Vietnam?

No. Under the new Decree 288/2025, drones weighing under 250g (like the DJI Mini series or DJI Neo) are exempt from flight permits when used for recreation outside of prohibited zones. You do not need to apply for a license with the Ministry of Defense for these specific models.

Will customs confiscate my drone at the airport?

It is rare for personal drones to be confiscated. However, to avoid trouble, always carry your drone and batteries in your carry-on luggage. If you bring a large drone (>250g) without a pre-approved permit, Customs may ask you to store it at the airport (deposit) until your departure flight.

Can I fly my drone in Ha Long Bay?

Yes, but with restrictions. While not a total no-fly zone, the Habor areas often ban drones. The best time to fly is when you are out on the water. Always check with your Cruise Manager first; many luxury cruises 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 are classified as "Restricted Airspace" due to government buildings and high population density. Flying here carries a high risk of fines. We recommend finding open spaces on the outskirts (like rice fields or riversides) instead.

Is drone insurance mandatory in Vietnam?

No. Insurance is not legally required for recreational drone flights in Vietnam. However, accidents happen (especially over water!), so having international liability insurance or DJI Care Refresh is highly recommended for your peace of mind.

Can I fly a drone at the Golden Bridge (Ba Na Hills)?

No, absolutely not. Sun World Ba Na Hills (home of the Golden Bridge) enforces a strict no-drone policy to ensure visitor safety. Security personnel screen bags at the cable car entrance and will refuse entry if they detect a drone.

Is it polite to film locals with a drone?

Vietnamese people are generally friendly, but privacy is paramount. Always ask for permission before filming close-ups, especially in ethnic minority villages.

⚠️ Caution: In remote areas, locals may not recognize drones and could view them as a threat or nuisance. There is a real risk of your drone being targeted with stones or slingshots if it flies too low. Please fly respectfully and maintain a safe altitude over private homes.

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!

>>> Articles you may be interested in:

• Is solo travel in Vietnam safe? My detailed guide!
• Vietnam Tourist Map 2025: Most Complete Guide to Regions
• Vietnam’s New Look: A Redesigned Map with Half the Number of Provinces.
• Vietnam Travel Costs in 2025: What Will Your Trip Really Cost?
• Is Vietnam Safe To Travel? 7 Must-Know Tips For Travelers!