Vietnam has become one of the top destinations for foreign investment in Southeast Asia. With a booming economy, favorable trade policies, and a strategic geographic location, the country attracts thousands of foreign investors each year. However, navigating the legal and administrative procedures to legally operate a business here can be daunting, especially for those unfamiliar with Vietnam legal framework. In case you need advice, please contact Apolo Lawyers via email at contact@apolo.com.vn or Hotline (+84) 903 419 479 for the best advice and support.
Business registration for foreigners is the first and foremost legal step that allows foreign investors to legally conduct business in Vietnam. Without it, your operations will not be recognized or protected under Vietnamese law.
Depending on the business sector and ownership structure, registration may involve multiple permits, approvals, and compliance obligations. Below are the main legal procedures involved.
Business registration Vietnam for foreigners
Before setting up a company, foreign investors must register their investment project and receive an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC).
Key actions include: Submit project information on the National Foreign Investment Portal (https://fdi.gov.vn); Prepare and submit a complete application dossier to the investment registration authority; Receive the IRC within 15 working days from the date of submitting a valid dossier.
Typical documents include: Proposal for investment project; Copy of the investor passport; Bank statement showing sufficient financial resources; Documents proving the project location (e.g. lease contract, land use right certificate); Technology explanation (if applicable); Other relevant supporting documents depending on the project.
Once you have the IRC, you can proceed with registering your business and obtaining the Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC).
Key actions include: Submit the enterprise registration dossier either directly or online via the National Business Registration Portal (https://dangkykinhdoanh.gov.vn); Receive the ERC within 3 working days from the date of submitting a valid dossier.
Basic documents include: Application form for enterprise registration; Company charter (articles of association); List of founding shareholders or members; Valid IDs/passports of all individual investors; Notarized copy of the IRC; Power of attorney (if applying via an authorized representative).
Some business sectors in Vietnam are conditional or restricted for foreign investors. In these cases, a Business License must be obtained before operation. Examples of conditional sectors include: Retail and distribution services; Logistics services; E-commerce and digital platforms; Postal and courier services; Education and training services. Each sector has its own legal requirements, which may include minimum capital, investment ratio limits, or technical qualifications.
Foreign investors looking to establish a business in Vietnam must be aware of several key legal requirements. First, they must demonstrate financial capability through official bank statements or savings certificates. Second, a valid business address is mandatory this means securing a lease contract for a commercial property, as residential buildings such as apartments or collective housing are not permitted for business registration. Additionally, each industry has its own investment conditions, including restrictions on ownership ratios, forms of investment, and licensing obligations. Finally, all documents in foreign languages must be notarized and legally translated into Vietnamese by a licensed translation agency to ensure compliance.
Business registration Vietnam for foreigners
Setting up a business in Vietnam involves strict legal procedures, but you don not have to navigate it alone. Apolo Lawyers provides end-to-end legal support for foreign investors, ensuring your company is legally registered and fully compliant.
Navigating Vietnam business registration process as a foreigner may seem complex, but with the right legal guidance and preparation, it becomes a strategic first step toward building a successful business in one of Asia most dynamic economies. From securing investment approvals to meeting compliance obligations, each stage requires precise attention to legal detail. Apolo Lawyers is here to ensure that your journey into the Vietnamese market is smooth, lawful, and efficient. Whether you are exploring your investment options or ready to establish your company, let our experienced legal team be your trusted partner every step of the way. Our services include:
If you still have any questions, do not hesitate to contact Apolo Lawyers – Solicitors & Litigators. Hotline: (+84) 903. 419. 479 and Email contact@apolo.com.vn to be supported and helped in the most optimal way.
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