3 Essential Insights: How Long It Takes to Set Up a Company in Vietnam

In today’s global economy, Vietnam emerges as a place of opportunity, attracting foreign investors with its impressive growth rates, strategic location in Asia, and a thriving digital ecosystem. For those looking to set up a company in Vietnam, understanding the timeframe is crucial. This article explores the steps involved in this process and why Vietnam is an attractive destination for business expansion.

Initial Considerations

Before diving into the procedural timelines, it’s important for potential investors to grasp why Vietnam is becoming a hotspot for international business. Amidst global economic uncertainties, Vietnam boasts a stable economic environment with high growth potential.

Its integration into global markets, coupled with a young, tech-savvy population and competitive living costs, make it an ideal place for foreigners to establish a company in Vietnam and tap into the vast opportunities of both local and international markets.

Step-by-Step Timeline to Set Up a Company in Vietnam

1. Pre-registration Research (1-2 weeks)
2. Investment Registration Certificate (4-6 weeks)
3.Business Registration Certificate (1-2 weeks)
4. Bank Account and Capital Contribution (1 week)
5. Tax and Labor Registration (1-2 weeks)
6. Licenses and Permits (variable)

1. Pre-registration Research (1-2 weeks)

The first step to set up a company in Vietnam involves thorough market research and choosing the appropriate business structure, such as a limited liability company, joint-stock company, or partnership. Foreign investors need to understand the local market conditions, relevant consumer behavior, and potential legal implications affecting their specific industry. Also, business lines play important roles because there are certain areas that require investment conditions for foreigners to invest in Vietnam because it requires certain conditions to meet i.e. investment amount, foreign ownership ratio, special permits or licenses.

2. Investment Registration Certificate (4-6 weeks)

If your business involves foreign capital, obtaining an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) is necessary. This document outlines the scope, scale, and impact of your investment and is crucial for industries that require a closer scrutiny of foreign investment impacts on local economies and labor markets.

3.Business Registration Certificate (1-2 weeks)

Registering your business is a pivotal step in the process to set up a company in Vietnam. This involves submitting a dossier including a notarized copy of your passport, investment plan, and company charter. The Department of Planning and Investment (DPI) reviews these documents. The actual processing time can vary, but typically, obtaining the business registration certificate takes about one month, assuming all documents are correctly filed.

4. Bank Account and Capital Contribution (1 week)

After registering your business, the next step to set up a company in Vietnam is opening a corporate bank account and depositing the registered capital. This process can be straightforward or complex depending on the bank’s requirements and the origin of your initial capital.

5. Tax and Labor Registration (1-2 weeks)

Registering with tax authorities and labor departments is essential. This includes obtaining a tax code, registering for value-added tax (VAT), and setting up employee insurance. These registrations ensure that your business complies with Vietnam’s tax regulations and labor laws, which is a crucial aspect of how to establish a company in Vietnam.

6. Licenses and Permits (variable)

Depending on the type of business, additional licenses or permits may be required. For instance, manufacturing companies might need environmental and safety inspections approvals. The duration for obtaining these can vary greatly based on the business type and local regulations.

Why the Process is Worth the Wait

Despite the potential for delays, the process to set up a company in Vietnam is increasingly streamlined thanks to government efforts to attract foreign investment. With its strategic position as a gateway to ASEAN markets, robust economic policies, and digital growth, Vietnam offers a dynamic environment for business success.

In conclusion, the process to set up a company in Vietnam might take anywhere from two to three months, depending on various factors including the type of business, required licenses, and your readiness with the necessary documents.

However, the favorable business climate, growing economy, and the potential to access a large and growing consumer market in Asia make Vietnam a compelling destination for foreign investors. Whether you’re looking to tap into local resources or aiming to use Vietnam as a base to reach other Asian markets, the investment of time is well worth the potential returns.

About ANT Lawyers, a law firm in Vietnam

We help clients overcome cultural barriers and achieve their strategic and financial outcomes, while ensuring the best interest rate protection, risk mitigation and regulatory compliance. ANT lawyers has lawyers in Ho Chi Minh city, Hanoi,  and Danang, and will help customers in doing business in Vietnam.