Scroll
Notification

Will you allow One IBC to send you notifications?

We will only notify the newest and revelant news to you.

Vietnam Company Registration: Guide for Entrepreneurs in 2025

Updated time: 18 Apr, 2025, 15:40 (UTC+08:00)

Looking to expand your business in Southeast Asia in 2025, Vietnam company registration could be the best option. Vietnam's economy is thriving with a young demographic and progressively investor-friendly policies, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs, digital nomads and investors alike.

If you are a startup founder based locally or an overseas investor seeking entry into the Asian market, familiarizing yourself with the entire procedure for incorporating your business in Vietnam is paramount. In this article, we guide you through the steps of registering a company, the types of structures of business, the company registration fees in Vietnam, and, since this environment is evolving, what the foreign business registration in Vietnam looks like today.

Why Register a Company in Vietnam?

Vietnam is a rapidly developing country with one of the most dynamic economies in Asia. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

  • Low operational costs and competitive labor force
  • Free trade agreements (FTAs) with major economies
  • Growing tech and manufacturing sectors
  • Supportive government regulations for foreign investors
  • Strategic access to ASEAN markets

Whether you’re entering the import-export industry, manufacturing, or tech, Vietnam offers a favorable environment for long-term growth.

Reasons to register a company in Vietnam

Reasons to register a company in Vietnam

Types of Business Entities in Vietnam

When it comes to Vietnam company registration, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is the kind of business entity you want to register. The good news is that there are several options:

1. Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Perfect for small and medium-sized businesses. You can set it up alone or with partners, and it gives you legal protection by separating your personal assets from your business ones.

2. Joint Stock Company (JSC)

The Joint Stock Company (JSC) is better suited for businesses aiming to raise capital through public offerings or seeking multiple shareholders. This entity offers flexibility for businesses that plan to scale significantly.

3. Representative Office

A low-risk way for foreign companies to have a presence in Vietnam without doing any actual sales. Great for research, marketing, or building relationships.

4. Branch Office

If your foreign company wants to do business directly in Vietnam, opening a branch is possible—but it comes with stricter rules.

For most entrepreneurs (especially foreigners), an LLC is the easiest and most flexible choice.

All types of businesses in Vietnam today

All types of businesses in Vietnam today

Business Registration in Vietnam for Foreigners

If you’re not Vietnamese, don’t worry; you can start a business here. While foreign ownership is allowed in most sectors, some industries, such as defense, media, and certain areas of real estate, are subject to restrictions and may require local partnerships or joint ventures. Here’s what the process looks like:

Step 1: Get an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC)

If you’re a foreigner, this is your first hurdle. The IRC permits you to invest in Vietnam. It’s issued by the Department of Planning and Investment (DPI).

Step 2: Apply for an Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC)

Once you’ve got the IRC, you’ll apply for the ERC. This document officially registers your company and gives you your Vietnam company registration number, which acts as your business ID for everything from taxes to banking.

Step 3: Open a Business Bank Account

With your registration complete, you’ll need a local business bank account to receive capital and handle transactions. Opening a corporate bank account in Vietnam typically requires companies to provide proof of the source of funds and meet specific due diligence requirements from the bank, especially for foreign investors.

Step 4: Register for Taxes

Every business in Vietnam needs a tax code and, in many cases, a VAT registration. It’s all part of getting your company legally ready to operate.

How to Register a Business in Vietnam for Foreigners Quickly

How to Register a Business in Vietnam for Foreigners Quickly

What Is a Vietnam Company Registration Number?

When your ERC gets approved, your business receives a 10-digit Vietnam company registration number. This is your business’s identity in the eyes of the law, tax authorities, and banks.

You’ll need this number for:

  • Issuing invoices
  • Signing contracts
  • Filing taxes
  • Opening a business bank account
  • Importing/exporting goods

Basically, if your company were a person, this number would be its ID card.

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Company in Vietnam?

The costs required for Vietnam company registration vary based on multiple factors, including your business structure, geographical location, and investor nationality. Fortunately, Vietnam remains one of Southeast Asia's most cost-competitive markets for business establishment.

Standard costs encompass official registration charges, administrative requirements like company seal procurement, and mandatory compliance fees such as business license taxation. Foreign investors should anticipate additional expenses for IRC applications, document translation and notarization, and legal representation services.

Many entrepreneurs opt for professional business service providers who offer end-to-end support, from initial consultation through implementation. Optional services like virtual office solutions, accounting support, or tax compliance packages can affect the total investment.

Calculate the cost of company registration in Vietnam

Calculate the cost of company registration in Vietnam

How Long Does the Vietnam Company Registration Process Take?

The full process of registering a company in Vietnam typically takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on your level of preparation and whether you are a foreign investor.

  • Investment Registration Certificate (IRC)For foreign investors only: 2 to 3 weeks
  • Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC): 1 to 2 weeks
  • Tax registration and bank account setup: 1 to 2 weeks

It’s important to build in buffer time for potential delays, particularly if your application coincides with national holidays or peak business periods. Being well-prepared with the required documentation and working with a professional service provider can help streamline the process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid Should You Know

Starting a company anywhere has its hurdles, and Vietnam is no exception. Here are some things to watch out for:

  • Incomplete paperwork – Vietnamese bureaucracy is very particular. One missing document can set you back weeks.
  • Language barriers – Most official paperwork is in Vietnamese, so if you don’t speak the language, hire someone who does.
  • Not understanding ownership rules – While foreign ownership is allowed in many sectors, there are exceptions.
  • Not budgeting for ongoing compliance – Annual reports, tax filings, and bookkeeping are all part of running a business here.

Conclusion

Registering a business in Vietnam in 2025 offers a gateway into one of Asia’s most promising markets. However, it requires careful navigation of legal and regulatory procedures.

Offshore Company Corp is your trusted partner in Vietnam company registration, offering:

  • End-to-end incorporation support
  • Legal and tax advisory for foreign investors
  • Bank account opening assistance
  • Ongoing compliance management

Ready to get started? Contact Offshore Company Corp today and take the first step toward expanding your business in Vietnam with confidence.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR UPDATES SUBSCRIBE TO OUR UPDATES

Latest news & insights from around the world brought to you by One IBC's experts

What the media say about us

About Us

We are always proud of being an experienced Financial and Corporate Services provider in the international market. We provide the best and most competitive value to you as valued customers to transform your goals into a solution with a clear action plan. Our Solution, Your Success.

US