| Situation | What sources say | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Passing tourist with own drone | no simple procedure found | do not fly without written authorisation |
| Foreign resident | Vietnamese guarantor + registration (Decree 288/2025) | ask the authorities |
| Device of 0.25 kg and up | visual pilot licence, from 1 July 2026 | use a licensed operator |
| Device of 2 kg and up or beyond sight | instrument-rating licence | licensed operator only |
| Sensitive areas (military, borders, airports) | no-fly zones cited by guides | never go near |
Alternatives for aerial photos
- Photos from a boat or viewpoint: Ha Long Bay offers great views from Ti Top island or on a cruise: see the day cruise.
- Local photographer: many guides in Hanoi and Ninh Binh know the viewpoints; see Ninh Binh in one day.
- Licensed operator: if you insist on aerial video, ask a licensed local operator for a service rather than flying alone.
Before you go
Do not rely on a forum for the rule: it changes (2025 decree, licence required in July 2026). Also check your airline's rules for carrying a drone. For more advice, see safety and scams in Hanoi.
