Vietnam is rapidly becoming a top destination for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish a business in Southeast Asia. With a booming economy, a young and dynamic workforce, and supportive government policies, it’s no surprise that many businesses are choosing Vietnam as their launchpad. But how exactly do you start a business here? This guide walks you through 8 essential steps to get your company fully set up and ready to operate legally in Vietnam.

Table of Contents

1. Choose the Right Business Structure
2. Prepare the Necessary Documents
3. Register Your Business and Obtain an Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC)
4. Obtain Tax Registration, Company Seal, and Digital Signature
5. Open a Corporate Bank Account and Deposit Charter Capital
6. Obtain Business Licenses and Special Permits
7. Register Employees and Comply with Labor Laws
8. Launch Operations and Maintain Compliance
9. Estimated Timeline for Company Setup in Vietnam
10. Why Choose Vietnam for Your Business?
11. FAQs About Starting a Business in Vietnam

Step 1: Choose the Right Business Structure

Before registering a company, you must decide on the best legal structure for your business. The most common options include:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses. It offers flexibility and requires at least one founder.
• Joint Stock Company (JSC): Suitable for larger businesses with multiple shareholders and the ability to issue shares.
• Representative Office: For foreign companies that want a presence in Vietnam without engaging in commercial activities.
• Branch Office: Allows foreign businesses to conduct commercial operations in Vietnam without creating a separate legal entity.

Step 2: Prepare the Necessary Documents

To register a company in Vietnam, you need to prepare the following documents:

• Application for Enterprise Registration
• Company Charter (Articles of Association)
• List of founding members/shareholders
• Legal documents of the investor (passport, business license, etc.)
• Lease agreement for an office address

Foreign investors often need an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) before obtaining an Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC).

Step 3: Register Your Business and Obtain an Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC)

Submit your application to the Department of Planning and Investment (DPI). If everything is correct, you’ll receive your Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) in 3–7 working days.

For foreign investors, the process may take longer due to the Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) requirement.

Step 4: Obtain Tax Registration, Company Seal, and Digital Signature

After registering your company, obtain a Tax Code and VAT Registration from the Tax Authority. Then, create a company seal, which is required for signing contracts and official documents.

Next, register for a Digital Signature (Token) to conduct e-tax transactions and sign official documents electronically.

Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account and Deposit Charter Capital

Open a corporate bank account in Vietnam. Foreign-owned companies must also open a capital account to receive investment funds.

Your company must deposit its charter capital within 90 days of registration.

Step 6: Obtain Business Licenses and Special Permits

Some industries require additional licenses before operating, such as:

• Retail Business: Business License
• Food & Beverage: Food Safety Certificate
• Import-Export: Customs & Trade Compliance
• E-commerce: E-commerce Business License

Step 7: Register Employees and Comply with Labor Laws

If you plan to hire employees, you must:

• Register them with the Social Insurance Authority
• Sign labor contracts according to Vietnamese law
• Ensure compliance with work permits for foreign employees

Step 8: Launch Operations and Maintain Compliance

Congratulations! Your company is now legally registered. To maintain compliance:

• Issue invoices and manage tax filings correctly
• Maintain proper accounting records as required by law
• Renew licenses (if applicable) and stay updated on regulatory changes

Estimated Timeline for Company Setup in Vietnam

• Vietnamese-Owned Company: 7–10 days
• Foreign-Owned Company: 2–4 weeks (longer if special permits are needed)

Why Choose Vietnam for Your Business?

• Fast-growing economy with business-friendly policies
• Strategic location for trade in Southeast Asia
• Competitive labor costs and skilled workforce
• Attractive investment opportunities for foreign businesses

FAQs About Starting a Business in Vietnam

1. Can foreigners own 100% of a company in Vietnam?

Yes, in most industries, foreigners can fully own a business in Vietnam. However, some sectors may require a Vietnamese partner or be subject to ownership restrictions.

2. What is the minimum capital required to start a business?

There is no fixed minimum capital for most businesses. However, the registered capital must reflect the scale and scope of your business activities. Some industries, like real estate or finance, may have higher capital requirements.

3. How long does it take to set up a business in Vietnam?

It typically takes 7–10 days for Vietnamese-owned companies and 2–4 weeks for foreign-owned companies, depending on the industry and completeness of the application.

4. Do I need a physical office in Vietnam to register my business?

Yes, a legal business address is required for registration. It must be a commercial office space, not a residential address.

Are you ready to start your business in Vietnam? Schedule a free consultation with our experts today!

By following these 8 essential steps, you can smoothly launch your business in Vietnam and position it for success in one of Asia’s most promising markets.

Related Articles:

• Establishing a Representative Office in Vietnam: A Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Companies
• Understanding Charter Capital for Companies in Vietnam (2025)
• Comprehensive Guide to Business Taxes in Vietnam (2025)