A Filmmaker’s Guide
to Shooting in Vietnam
Our company works with local professionals to make sure you
are getting the right help throughout media production.
Permits in Vietnam: What You Need to Know
Vietnam has strict regulations about filming in the country, which is apparent through the application of film permits. Any filming in public locations will require a national film permit from the Department of Cinema. All foreign productions must apply for a permit through a local production partner. This process usually takes 2–3 weeks and requires a complete list of crew and locations. After the permits have been given the green light, all your crew will get their entry letters into the country.
If your film project includes locations that are considered culturally or politically sensitive, you’ll have a government-assigned minder on set throughout shooting. This individual will ensure that whatever you capture on camera complies with local and cultural rules and norms.
Timing Your Vietnam Film Production around the Weather
The weather conditions in Vietnam differ depending on which part of the country you are in. For example, Northern Vietnam has four recognizable seasons, with autumn and spring boasting the most balanced and easy-to-work-in weather. This makes these periods the best for shooting in. Southern Vietnam has a dry and wet season, and it’s best to avoid the rainy period.
Planning Filming Equipment Rental & Local Crew Logistics
Vietnam’s film rental companies have a good stock of basic camera, lighting, and sound gear, which is relatively inexpensive to hire. If your film project is small, renting your equipment here is probably the best idea. Documentaries, feature films, or any other kind of large-scale video production might need equipment imported, and a local production support company like Fixer Vietnam can guide you through the customs red tape.
We can also help you find a reliable local crew. Luckily, Vietnam has a wide choice of skilled, English-speaking production team members, and even for a small film project, you’ll find the fees reasonable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it an ATA carnet country?
No.
Is it safe for me and my team to film there?
Yes.
Do I need a visa or a work visa to film there?
You will need a business visa for small shoots and a work visa for longer or paid productions. For personal filming projects or pre-production recce, you may not need any kind of specialized visa. Your team also needs accreditation if you plan to film in public or national locations. You must apply to the Ministry of Culture for the accreditation and it takes about 1–3 weeks to process. The cost is between $50 and $200 per person. Small private shoots typically do not require accreditation.
Do I need a local company to film or get visas there?
It is best to work with a local company if you are planning a large-scale filming project.
Do I need a permit for drones?
Yes. You must apply to the Ministry of National Defence for drone permits.
Is there a cash rebate/tax exemption or any other fiscal advantage?
No.
Can I shoot in a national park and, if so, under what circumstances?
Yes, you can shoot in Vietnam’s national parks, but you will need to have special permits and approval for crew and equipment. Partner with a reliable film fixer like us, and we will organize these permits and permissions on your behalf.
Working with Fixer Vietnam
We are part of Storytailors, a global film production support network operating in more than 150 countries. This has given us the opportunity to provide production services and support on many major film projects both in Vietnam and around the world.
Our work covers all stages of production, including location scouting, permit arrangement, local field producers, logistics management, and arranging equipment, transport, and accommodation. Storytailors has worked with a wide selection of well-known filmmakers, media platforms, and global companies, with clients including Google, Nike, L’Oréal, National Geographic, Al Jazeera, and more.