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When hearing the phrase “death penalty for drugs in Vietnam,” many foreigners fall into panic. Many search for information with the fear: “I or my loved one is under investigation — is there a risk of the death penalty?”
This article is written from the perspective of a criminal lawyer in Vietnam to help you understand: what drug quantities may lead to the death penalty, what factors affect sentencing, and what you should do as early as possible to protect your legal rights.
Vietnam is one of the countries with very strict criminal policies toward drug crimes. Unlike many Western countries, nationality does not reduce criminal liability.
Under the general principle of the Vietnamese Criminal Code:
Foreigners who commit crimes in Vietnam are still handled under Vietnamese law.
What worries many people most:
The possibility of the death penalty even if not a Vietnamese citizen
Not understanding drug quantity thresholds
Uncertainty about chances of sentence mitigation
Understanding the legal framework helps reduce panic and make the right decisions early.
The highest penalty for drug trafficking is provided under Article 251 of the 2015 Criminal Code (amended 2017), currently in force.
The death penalty does not apply to all cases. However, once certain thresholds are exceeded, offenders may face the highest punishment.
Typical thresholds include:
Heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine → from 100 grams
Opium → from 5 kg
Cannabis resin → from 1 kg
Dried cannabis → from 75 kg
Synthetic pills (ecstasy, ketamine, etc.) → based on active substance weight
Important notes:
These thresholds trigger the death penalty framework, not automatic execution
The final sentence depends on multiple factors
This is a common misconception.
In practice, the death penalty is not automatic even with large quantities. Courts assess multiple factors before sentencing.
Role in the network
Level of awareness
Conduct after arrest
Personal background
International elements
Therefore, defendants with similar quantities may receive very different sentences.
The direct answer: Yes, it is possible.
Vietnamese law does not exempt foreigners from capital punishment. In reality, foreign defendants have received very severe sentences, including life imprisonment and death.
However, there are also cases where:
Death sentences were reduced to life imprisonment
Sentences were reduced on appeal
Clemency was granted
This shows that outcomes are not predetermined.
“I was only transporting, so I’m safe” — Incorrect
“Foreigners will just be deported” — Wrong
“I don’t speak Vietnamese, signing is fine” — Very risky
“I’ll hire a lawyer later” — Many mitigation chances may be lost
If you or a loved one is involved:
Stay calm
Avoid self-assessment of sentencing
Do not sign documents without understanding
Seek an experienced criminal lawyer early
Lawyers can:
Develop defense strategies early
Work with authorities
Provide legal interpretation
Coordinate with consulates
Build mitigation dossiers
For foreigners, lawyers also help navigate Vietnam’s legal system and cultural differences.
Drug trafficking involving large quantities in Vietnam may lead to extremely severe penalties, including the death penalty. However, quantity is only one of many factors courts consider.
If you or your loved one is facing a drug investigation in Vietnam, the most important steps are:
Stay calm
Avoid assumptions
Seek legal help as early as possible
Drug cases in Vietnam can result in very severe penalties, but quantity alone does not determine the final sentence. Each case must be assessed based on role, circumstances, and legal strategy. If you or your loved one is under investigation, staying calm and seeking early legal support is crucial.
Contact DEDICA Law Firm for Professional Legal Support
📞 Hotline: (+84) 39 969 0012 (Available via WhatsApp, WeChat, Zalo)
🕒 Working Hours: Monday – Friday (8:30 – 18:00)
Contact us today for a free initial consultation with our experienced lawyers!
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