Do You Need a Filming Permit in Vietnam?
Yes. Any commercial filming in public spaces in Vietnam requires a permit from the local Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism (Sở Văn hóa, Thể thao và Du lịch). This applies to TVC shoots, documentaries, music videos, and film productions. However, small-scale social media content and personal videos generally don't require formal permits.
At CINEFY, we've navigated the permit process for hundreds of projects across Da Nang and Central Vietnam. Here's everything you need to know.
Types of Filming That Require Permits
- TVC commercials filmed in public locations
- Feature films and short films with professional crews
- Documentaries featuring government buildings, military areas, or cultural sites
- Music videos shot in public streets, beaches, or parks
- Drone filming (separate aviation permit required)
- Foreign productions filming in Vietnam (additional MOCST approval needed)
Filming That Typically Does NOT Require Permits
- Studio shoots in private facilities like CINEFY Studio
- Small-scale social media content (1-2 person crew, no blocking traffic)
- Private event coverage on private property
- Product photography in controlled environments
How to Get a Filming Permit in Da Nang
Step 1: Prepare Your Application (2-3 days)
You'll need: company registration documents, project synopsis, shooting schedule with exact locations, crew list, equipment list, and a letter of responsibility. Foreign companies need an additional letter from their Vietnamese partner or fixer.
Step 2: Submit to Local Authorities (1 day)
Submit your application to the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism. For locations within specific districts, you may also need district-level approval.
Step 3: Review Period (5-7 business days)
Standard processing takes 5-7 business days. Rush processing is sometimes available for an additional fee. The department may request script changes if content is deemed sensitive.
Step 4: Receive Permit & Coordinate with Police
Once approved, you'll receive a filming permit letter. For shoots requiring road closures or traffic management, coordinate separately with the local police station (Công an phường).
Drone Filming Regulations in Vietnam
Drone operations in Vietnam are heavily regulated. Key requirements:
- Aviation authority approval — Required from the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) for any commercial drone operation
- No-fly zones — Military areas, airports (within 8km), government buildings, and some tourist sites are restricted
- Maximum altitude — 120 meters for approved commercial operations
- Insurance — Third-party liability insurance recommended
- Registration — All drones over 250g must be registered
CINEFY provides licensed drone operators with all necessary permits for aerial filming in Da Nang. Check our equipment rental page for drone camera options.
Costs for Filming Permits in Da Nang
| Permit Type | Estimated Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard filming permit | Free - 2,000,000 VND | 5-7 business days |
| Location-specific permits | 500,000 - 5,000,000 VND | 3-10 business days |
| Drone filming permit | 2,000,000 - 10,000,000 VND | 7-14 business days |
| Road closure / traffic mgmt | 3,000,000 - 15,000,000 VND | 7-14 business days |
| Foreign production license (MOCST) | Varies | 15-30 business days |
Tips for a Smooth Permit Process
Start early: Begin the permit process at least 3 weeks before your shoot date. International productions should start 6-8 weeks ahead.
Use a local fixer: A Vietnamese production company like CINEFY can handle all permit applications, liaising with authorities in Vietnamese and navigating the bureaucracy efficiently.
Have backup locations: Always scout 2-3 alternative locations in case a permit is delayed or denied for your primary choice.
Shoot in a studio: For controlled environments, CINEFY's 360m² studio requires no permits and is available for immediate booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a filming permit in Da Nang?
Standard filming permits take 5-7 business days from submission. Drone permits take 7-14 days. Foreign production licenses from MOCST can take 15-30 days. We recommend starting the process at least 3 weeks before your planned shoot date.
Can foreigners film in Vietnam without a permit?
Small-scale personal filming (tourism videos, vlogging) generally doesn't require permits. However, any commercial production with professional equipment and crew requires proper authorization. Foreign production companies must partner with a licensed Vietnamese entity for the permit application.
What happens if you film without a permit in Vietnam?
Filming without proper authorization can result in equipment confiscation, fines ranging from 5,000,000 - 30,000,000 VND, and in severe cases, deportation of foreign crew members. Your footage may also be confiscated. Always obtain proper permits before shooting.
Does filming inside CINEFY Studio require a permit?
No. Filming inside private studio facilities like CINEFY does not require government permits. This is one of the key advantages of studio production — you can book and shoot the same week without waiting for permit approvals.
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Planning to Film in Da Nang?
CINEFY handles permits, locations, and full production logistics for filming in Vietnam.