Ha Long, Vietnam

Rules to follow in Ha Long

3 laws, restrictions, and customs in Ha Long that travellers often break without knowing — and the fines or consequences that follow.

Last updated 2026-08-09

1. Do not photograph military installations, government buildings, or police

Photography near Vietnamese military sites, police, government buildings, and border areas is strictly prohibited. Enforcement is unpredictable and has led to tourist detentions.

Where: Legal
Cost: Camera confiscation; detention; fines
Tip: Stick to tourism subjects — markets, temples, scenery, food. Delete anything that shows security or military if police approach.

2. Criticising the Communist Party or government is illegal

Vietnam is a one-party communist state. Criticising the ruling Communist Party, the government, or its leaders online, in public, or to locals is illegal under Penal Code Article 331 and has led to tourist detention.

Where: Legal
Cost: Detention; deportation; fine
Tip: Avoid all political comment about Vietnam's government. Locals may express views privately but cannot do so publicly — do not encourage them to do so.

3. Remove shoes and dress modestly at pagodas and temples

Vietnamese pagodas and temples require shoes to be removed at the entrance. Modest dress (covered shoulders and knees) is expected. Photography inside active worship areas requires discretion and often permission.

Where: Religious
Tip: Wear easy-to-remove shoes. Carry a scarf. Ask before photographing worshippers.

Rules to follow in Ha Long

1. Do not photograph military installations, government buildings, or police

2. Criticising the Communist Party or government is illegal

3. Remove shoes and dress modestly at pagodas and temples

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