Video Filming In Vietnam: Your ULTIMATE Guide

So, you’re thinking about the next documentary that’s shot in Vietnam? Excellent choice! With jaw-dropping landscapes, buzzing cities, and a rich cultural tapestry, Vietnam is the perfect canvas for your next big project. But before you pack your gear, there are a few things you need to know. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about video filming in Vietnam—permits, visas, drones, and even how to dodge a tropical downpour. Let’s dive in!

WHY FILM IN VIETNAM?

Vietnam is like a film set waiting to happen. You’ve got Hanoi, a city with 1,000 years of history, where ancient pagodas sit next to chic cafes. Then there’s Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), a whirlwind of skyscrapers and motorbikes. Venture out of the cities, and you’ll find emerald-green mountains, white sandy beaches, and turquoise waters that practically scream, “Put me in your movie!”

Need stats to impress your producer? Here’s a quick rundown:

1. GETTING YOUR FILM PERMIT 

No permit, no film—simple as that. Vietnam takes its permits seriously, so let’s break it down:

Who Issues Permits?

1. Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA): For TV shows, documentaries, commercials, music videos, news reports, and live events.
2. Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism (MoCST): For feature films and big-budget movies like Kong: Skull Island.

What Do You Need?

• Press Request Form: Download it here.
• Project Synopsis: A brief summary of your production.
• Daily Shooting Plan: List all your filming locations.
• Crew Passports: Copies for everyone on your team.
• Equipment List: Every camera, mic, and tripod needs to be accounted for.

How Long Does It Take?

• Permits take 7-10 working days to process.
• Fees? Charged daily or as a package for large-scale productions.

Pro tip: You’ll be assigned a film officer to tag along during your shoot. Think of them as your on-set guardian angel (or, depending on your perspective, a very official chaperone).

2. JOURNALIST VISAS AND CUSTOMS

Visas

Before your permit gets the green light, you’ll need a journalist visa for every crew member. Don’t worry—once approved, you can pick it up at the airport or your local Vietnam Embassy. Easy peasy.

Customs Clearance

Bringing equipment into Vietnam? Your film permit doubles as your customs clearance. Just make sure your equipment list is thorough to avoid hiccups at the airport.

3. DRONES: SKY-HIGH PERMITS

Want those epic aerial shots? You’ll need a drone permit from the Ministry of National Defence. Here’s what they’ll ask for:

• Exact flight locations (longitude and latitude, please!)
• Dates of operation

Processing Time

It takes about 10 working days to get approval. No pilot license? No problem—it’s not required. But skip the permit, and you risk fines, confiscation, or deleted footage. Play it safe and go legit.

4. WEATHER ALERT: DON’T LET THE MONSOON RUIN YOUR SHOOT

Vietnam’s weather is as dramatic as its landscapes. Here’s what to expect:

• North Vietnam: Monsoon season runs from October to April.
• South Vietnam: Wettest from September to May.

Oh, and don’t forget Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year). It’s a magical time but not ideal for filming. Our fixer team can help you navigate the best shooting dates.

READY TO ROLL? CONTACT US TODAY!

Your dream project in Vietnam is just a call away. What are you waiting for? Get in contact!