August 27, 2025, 4:11 am | Read time: 4 minutes

Drones are very popular: Over 400,000 models are in use in Germany alone. Many of them are small, lightweight, and weigh less than 250 grams–no license is required for these models. It’s no surprise that drones often end up in luggage during vacation season to capture travel memories from a bird’s-eye view. But this can quickly lead to problems in many countries. Despite EU-wide regulations, each country has its own rules–and violations can have drastic consequences.

Using Drones on Vacation–Where Rules Apply

As BILD reports, citing information from “Drohnen-camp.de,” the EU generally requires drone pilots to register in their home country and obtain a UAS operator number (eID), which must be visibly attached to the drone like a license plate. This regulation is recognized across the union–but not every country strictly adheres to it. Here’s an overview of the rules in popular vacation destinations.

France

In France, the EU eID is not sufficient. For models with transmitters or weighing over 799 grams, each device must be registered individually.

Italy

In Italy, only the basic EU rules apply: a minimum distance from airports and military facilities. Otherwise, flights are largely permitted–ideal for relaxed vacation shots.

Portugal

Portugal makes a distinction: While flying is generally allowed, photo and video recordings require a permit for each flight. This also applies to the islands of Madeira and the Azores. The regional authorities are responsible for issuing permits.

Spain

Spain is particularly strict when it comes to urban areas–and this includes many beaches. Anyone wishing to fly here must register with the Ministry of the Interior beforehand.

Turkey

Tourists wanting to use a drone in Turkey face significant bureaucratic hurdles. Drones under 500 grams do not need to be registered. However, every flight must be applied for 20 days in advance through diplomatic channels. Even with permission, flights can only be conducted with a licensed Turkish drone pilot. For locals with a Turkish passport, the requirements are much lower.

Greece

Many beaches on Greek islands are near small airfields. Therefore, approval from the aviation authority is required–though it is usually granted without much hassle.

United Kingdom

Post-Brexit, EU registrations or qualifications are invalid in the United Kingdom. Anyone wishing to fly a drone in England, Scotland, or Wales must register locally.

Sweden

In Sweden, flying is allowed without issue–but anyone wanting to publish their recordings needs approval from the National Land Survey. This “Spridningstillstånd” is free but can take up to 65 days to process.

Malta

Since almost the entire country is under the airport’s influence, even EU-registered drones must be registered anew in Malta. The fee for tourists is ten euros, valid for three months.

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Rules Drone Pilots Should Follow While Traveling

1. Respect privacy: Film early in the morning on deserted beaches–not in crowded bays.
2. Transport batteries correctly: Spare batteries belong in carry-on luggage. Follow airline guidelines.
3. Know the legal situation: Thoroughly check the rules of the destination country before departure–even for short flights.
4. Avoid crowds: Crowded beaches are considered gatherings–flying is prohibited under EU law.
5. Check insurance: Verify international coverage and always carry proof.

What Applies Outside of Europe

Whether in France, Portugal, or Turkey–almost everywhere has specific regulations. Ignoring them can result in hefty fines or even the confiscation of the drone. Outside Europe, the risks can be even greater: In countries like Egypt, Tunisia, or Morocco, drone flights are sometimes completely banned. And in Thailand, an unauthorized flight can lead to up to a year in prison.