When importing cosmetics into Vietnam, one of the most important documents in the notification dossier is the Letter of Authorization (LOA). This document legally confirms the relationship between a foreign manufacturer or brand owner and the Vietnamese entity authorized to carry out the cosmetic notification process.

In this 2025 guide, Green NRJ explains what the LOA is, why it’s required, how to draft a compliant version, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

What Is a Letter of Authorization (LOA)?

A Letter of Authorization (LOA) is a legal document issued by the manufacturer, brand owner, or product owner. It authorizes a Vietnamese company to represent the foreign business in:

• Submitting the cosmetic product notification to the Drug Administration of Vietnam (DAV)
• Acting as a liaison with Vietnamese regulatory authorities
• Ensuring product safety, quality, and compliance throughout its circulation in Vietnam

Legal Basis

The LOA is required by Vietnamese law and is aligned with regional standards. Its legal foundation includes:

Required Information in a Valid LOA

A legally accepted LOA must contain all the following:

Legalization and Translation Requirements

To be valid for submission, the LOA must go through the following procedures:

1. Consular Legalization: The LOA must be notarized and legalized by the relevant Vietnamese diplomatic mission in the country of origin.
2. Certified Translation: The LOA must be translated into Vietnamese and certified by a licensed translator in Vietnam.
3. Signature Certification: The signature must be that of a legal representative and officially certified.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistakes in the LOA can lead to rejection of the cosmetic notification dossier. The most common issues include:

• Uncertified or unauthorized signatures
• Missing or vague validity period
• Incomplete or outdated company information
• Absence of product list when required
• LOA not properly legalized or translated

Such errors may delay your time to market or result in refusal by authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the LOA mandatory for all imported cosmetics in Vietnam?
Yes. Every cosmetic product notification dossier must include a valid LOA.

Can one LOA cover multiple products or brands?
Yes, provided they are clearly listed in the document.

Can the authorized party be any local company?
Yes, but it must be legally registered in Vietnam and agreed upon by the brand owner.

Can Green NRJ act as the authorized party in Vietnam?
Yes. Green NRJ provides local representation and handles the full notification process.

How Green NRJ Supports Cosmetic Businesses

Green NRJ offers end-to-end services to ensure your product is registered efficiently and in compliance with Vietnamese law:

Our team supports international cosmetic brands entering Vietnam’s growing market with clarity, accuracy, and strategic compliance.

Contact Green NRJ Today

Looking to import cosmetic products into Vietnam? Let Green NRJ help you get your LOA and registration right from the start.

Contact us today to speak with our consultants and receive expert support tailored to your business goals.

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