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OPEN FOREIGN COMPANY IN VIETNAM

Discover how to open foreign company in Vietnam: investor must first obtain an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC), followed by an Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) from the Department of Planning and Investment - LHD Law Firm advice
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Want to open a foreign company in Vietnam? We provide fast, compliant, and affordable company formation services for international entrepreneurs. Start your Vietnam business today with full legal support.

Why Choose Vietnam for Your Foreign Company Setup?

Vietnam has rapidly become one of Asia’s top destinations for foreign investors. Its strategic location, favorable trade policies, and young, skilled workforce make it ideal for international business expansion.

Strategic Location and Booming Economy

Vietnam is located in the heart of Southeast Asia, offering access to ASEAN markets and major global trade routes. With stable GDP growth and over $400 billion in exports, Vietnam is a regional powerhouse.

Government Support & Investor Incentives

The Vietnamese government encourages foreign direct investment through tax incentives, industrial zones, and simplified licensing procedures. Foreign investors can own up to 100% of their company, depending on the business type.

Cost-Effective Labor and Operations

Vietnam’s operational costs remain significantly lower than neighboring countries like Singapore or Thailand, making it a cost-efficient base for manufacturing, trading, and tech startups.


Our Professional Company Formation Services

We handle every step — from legal registration to post-launch compliance — so you can focus on growing your business.

100% Foreign-Owned Enterprise Setup

We help you establish Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and Joint Stock Companies (JSCs) that are fully foreign-owned under Vietnamese law.

Business Visa & Work Permit Assistance

Our immigration specialists help secure Investor Visas, Work Permits, and Temporary Residence Cards for your executives and employees.

Tax Registration and Accounting Setup

We register your business with the Vietnam Tax Department and provide ongoing accounting, auditing, and payroll services.

Virtual Office & Local Director Options

If you’re not ready for a physical office, we offer virtual office addresses and nominee director services to keep your business compliant.

In recent years, along with the non-stop development of our country’s economy and society, the number of foreign investors investing and building businesses in Vietnam is more and more increased. Establishing 100% foreign-owned capital companies has become a popular business. With its unique characterization, establishing a company with 100% foreign-owned capital has always been subject to quite a rigorous adjustment of investment and business laws.

Register investment policy before business in Vietnam

Before carrying out setting up a 100% foreign-owned company, investors must apply for an Investment Registration Certificate at an agency of business registration. In some cases, investors must register its investment policy with a provincial People's Committee.

Required documents include:

-        A request for implementation of the investment project;

-        A copy of ID card, passport, or certificate of business registration, or other equivalent document;

-        A proposal of project investment: investors’ names, investment objectives, scale, capital and capital mobilization plan, location, duration, impact assessment, report on socio-economic efficiency, etc.

-        A copy of one of the following documents: financial statement within the last two years; commitment of financial support from its parent company or a financial institution; guarantee of financial capability; documents proving capital capability;

-        Demand for land use;

-        Explanation on technology application, including name of such technology;

-        BCC contract in case of implementation projects under a BCC

When applying for a business registration certificate to establish a 100% foreign-owned company, investors should prepare a file of documents similar to the file applied for policy registration and send it to an agency in charge of business registration.

Step-by-Step Process to Open a Foreign Company in Vietnam (2025 Guide)

Meta Description: Discover the complete process to open a foreign company in Vietnam — from consultation to legal registration and bank setup. Follow these 5 essential steps to launch your business successfully.


Setting up a foreign-owned company in Vietnam can seem complex at first, but with the right guidance, it’s a smooth and rewarding process. Whether you’re a small entrepreneur or a multinational enterprise, understanding each stage of company formation ensures your business is compliant and fully operational.

Below is a detailed, step-by-step breakdown of what’s required — including estimated timelines, documentation, and insider tips.


Step 1: Initial Consultation & Feasibility Check (1–2 Days)

Every successful company registration begins with a solid foundation. The initial consultation and feasibility check is where our experts evaluate your business model, proposed activities, and investment structure to ensure compliance with Vietnamese laws.

During this phase, you’ll receive:

  • A legal feasibility assessment of your business sector (some sectors require special approvals).

  • Guidance on capital requirements, ownership limits, and tax obligations.

  • Preliminary advice on choosing between a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a Joint Stock Company (JSC).

  • Clarification on whether your project requires conditional investment licensing.

Pro tip:
If your business involves import/export, education, or technology, you may need extra approvals from relevant ministries. It’s best to clarify these at the consultation stage to save time later.

This step usually takes 1–2 working days.


Step 2: Company Name Reservation (2–3 Days)

Once your business plan is finalized, the next step is to reserve your company name. The chosen name must:

  • Be unique and not already registered in Vietnam’s national database.

  • Not conflict with Vietnamese cultural, political, or moral standards.

  • End with “Company Limited” or “Joint Stock Company,” depending on your structure.

Our legal team conducts an online name availability check through the National Business Registration Portal and submits an official request to the Department of Planning and Investment (DPI).

Once approved, your name is reserved for up to 6 months. This process typically takes 2–3 working days.


Step 3: Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) (7–10 Days)

The Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) is one of the most important documents for foreign investors. It legally approves your project and confirms that your business is allowed to operate in Vietnam.

The IRC outlines:

  • Investor details (individual or corporate)

  • Project objectives and capital structure

  • Business location

  • Duration of operation

  • Approval from the Department of Planning and Investment

Our specialists prepare and submit your application, along with supporting documents such as:

  • Feasibility study or business plan

  • Proof of financial capacity

  • Charter documents for corporate investors

  • Lease agreement (if you have a local office address)

After submission, authorities review your file. Once approved, you’ll receive your IRC within 7–10 business days.

Note:
If your project falls under a conditional business line (e.g., logistics, education, or finance), approval may take slightly longer.


Step 4: Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) (5–7 Days)

After obtaining your IRC, the next milestone is the Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) — your official business license.

The ERC:

  • Legally registers your company with the Vietnam Business Registry

  • Confirms your company name, charter capital, address, and legal representative

  • Authorizes your business to commence operations

Our legal team handles the entire ERC process — from preparing your charter documents to liaising with the Department of Planning and Investment.

Once approved, you’ll receive your Enterprise Registration Certificate, which officially establishes your company under Vietnamese law.

This step usually takes 5–7 working days after receiving the IRC.


Step 5: Tax Code, Seal, and Bank Account Setup (3–5 Days)

Once your company is registered, you must complete the post-licensing formalities to make your business operational.

a. Tax Registration

Your company must register with the Vietnam Tax Department to obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN). This enables you to:

  • Issue Value Added Tax (VAT) invoices

  • File corporate income tax (CIT) reports

  • Hire employees legally and process payroll

b. Company Seal Creation

Every business in Vietnam is required to have an official company seal. This seal is used for signing contracts, legal documents, and financial reports.

You can customize your seal’s design and register it electronically with the National Enterprise Registration Information System.

c. Bank Account Setup

To handle capital contributions and financial transactions, you’ll need a corporate bank account in a Vietnamese bank.
We assist with opening accounts at reputable institutions such as Vietcombank, HSBC, or Techcombank, ensuring compliance with the State Bank of Vietnam regulations.

This entire phase typically takes 3–5 working days, depending on your chosen bank and document verification time.


Timeline Overview: Quick Summary

Step Process Estimated Time
Step 1 Initial Consultation & Feasibility Check 1–2 Days
Step 2 Company Name Reservation 2–3 Days
Step 3 Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) 7–10 Days
Step 4 Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) 5–7 Days
Step 5 Tax Code, Seal, and Bank Account Setup 3–5 Days

Total Estimated Time: 3–4 Weeks (if all documents are ready)


Post-Setup Support: What Comes Next

After completing registration, your company must comply with ongoing requirements:

  • Accounting & Tax Filing: Monthly and annual reports are mandatory.

  • Labor Registration: If hiring staff, register with the Social Insurance Department.

  • Annual Compliance: Maintain a proper bookkeeping system and renew business licenses if needed.

Our team offers full post-incorporation support, including tax filing, accounting, and audit preparation, ensuring your business remains 100% compliant.

Documents Required to Open a Company in Vietnam

For Individual Foreign Investors:

  • Passport copy (notarized)

  • Bank reference letter

  • Proof of address

  • Business plan (basic summary)

For Corporate Foreign Investors:

  • Certificate of Incorporation

  • Memorandum and Articles of Association

  • Board Resolution

  • Power of Attorney for local representative


Pricing Plans – Transparent & Affordable

Package Services Included Price (USD)
Standard Package Company registration, IRC/ERC, tax code setup $1,200
Premium Package Everything in Standard + legal support, visa assistance, accounting setup $1,950

No hidden charges. All government fees included.


Why Choose Us as Your Local Partner in Vietnam

Experienced Legal Experts & Accountants

Our bilingual experts specialize in foreign company registration, ensuring your setup complies with all Vietnamese laws.

English-Speaking Support Team

We guide you through every step in plain English — no language barriers, no confusion.

100% Transparency – No Hidden Fees

We believe in clear communication and upfront pricing — what you see is what you pay.


Client Success Stories

“They helped me open my IT company in Ho Chi Minh City in just 3 weeks. Fantastic service and communication!”
Michael L., Singapore

“Thanks to their team, we got our business license without any stress. Highly recommend!”
Anna K., Germany


FAQs – Open Foreign Company in Vietnam

1. Can foreigners own 100% of a company in Vietnam?
Yes, most industries allow 100% foreign ownership, except a few regulated sectors.

2. How long does it take to open a foreign company in Vietnam?
On average, the entire process takes 3–4 weeks, depending on document readiness.

3. Do I need to visit Vietnam to register my company?
Not necessarily — we can handle the process remotely with notarized documents.

4. What is the minimum capital requirement?
Typically $10,000 USD, but it varies by industry.

5. Can your firm assist with ongoing tax and accounting?
Absolutely — we provide full accounting, auditing, and compliance services.

6. Where can I find more legal information?
You can refer to Vietnam’s Ministry of Planning and Investment: https://www.mpi.gov.vn


Get Started Today

Ready to open your foreign company in Vietnam?
Let’s make your expansion effortless and fully compliant.

???? Book a Free Consultation Today

To seek further advice or request service to Set up a company in Vietnam, Contact us by: ☑: all@lhdfirm.com

☎: Call, iMessage,  SMS, WhatsApp, Viber: +84931767568 

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