Company Registration Services in Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the most attractive places in Southeast Asia for setting up a business. The country is located in the region's center and offers strong infrastructure, good trade links and easy access to global markets. Since foreign investors can fully own a company in most sectors through a Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE), business registration in Vietnam is simple and transparent.

The nation's young and skilled workforce, along with low labor costs, makes it ideal for manufacturing, services and high-tech industries. Many international companies have moved operations to Vietnam to take advantage of its competitive costs and strong connectivity. The country's economy continues to grow steadily, expanding by about 7% in 2024 and reaching nearly USD 480 billion.

The government also supports business through pro-investment policies and participation in many free trade agreements to help Vietnam become one of Asia's most open economies. With political stability, a growing middle class and a domestic market of over 97 million people, Vietnam offers both export potential and local demand. Its modern transport systems, expanding logistics and upgraded airports further support business operations.

Overall, Vietnam combines openness, affordability and growth, which makes it an excellent choice for international investors looking to establish a business in Southeast Asia. However, it is important to check if your business activity falls under restricted or conditional sectors before incorporating a company in Vietnam. Turning Vietnam's opportunities into success begins with a solid start. Expert support can help you start a business in Vietnam efficiently and with confidence.

Strategic Geographic Advantage

Vietnam sits at the heart of Southeast Asia, bordering countries like Cambodia, China and Thailand. The country's location makes it an ideal hub for international trade, shipping and logistics. Companies registered in Vietnam can reach regional markets efficiently and reduce transport costs.

Support for Foreign Investment

The Vietnamese government actively encourages foreign investment by updating regulations, providing tax incentives and creating a business-friendly environment for international entrepreneurs. This means foreign investors often get smoother approvals, lower taxes and a more predictable framework.

Special Economic Zones

Vietnam has dozens of economic and high-tech zones where companies may benefit from corporate tax holidays (typically 2-4 years of exemption) and reduced rates in subsequent years, particularly for R&D, technology and priority industries.

Fully Remote Registration

Many company registration steps can be handled remotely via a company formation agent in Vietnam. However, some local formalities, such as notarised powers of attorney and document submissions, may still be required. This offers convenience and reduces the need for physical travel and onsite presence.

Extensive Tax Treaties

Vietnam has signed double taxation agreements with over 70 countries. This helps businesses avoid paying tax twice on income earned abroad and simplifies cross-border operations, which improves the net return on international activities.

Affordable Workforce

Vietnam offers competitive labour costs by regional standards; for example, as of July 2024, the minimum monthly wage ranged from about US$137 to US$196, depending on region. It makes hiring employees much more cost-effective compared to many developed economies.

Strong International Trade Links

Vietnam maintains robust trade relations with major economies, most notably the European Union, under the EVFTA, and is increasingly integrated into global supply chains and export networks.

Government Incentives and Support

Vietnam's government offers tax benefits, simplified administrative procedures and funding opportunities. This makes it easier for foreign entrepreneurs to set up and grow their businesses in the country.

Shareholder Requirements

A Vietnamese limited liability company (LLC) must have at least one shareholder in the case of a single-member LLC or at least two shareholders in the case of a multi-member LLC. Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities.

Most sectors allow 100% foreign ownership, and after incorporation, the company (if a multi-member LLC) can expand to include up to 50 members/shareholders. However, if you are setting up a Joint Stock Company (JSC), at least three shareholders are required to complete the registration of company in Vietnam.

Foreign Ownership Restrictions

Foreign investors can generally hold up to 49% or 50% of a local company's charter capital in many conditional business sectors unless the law or treaty allows higher. Partnering with a local shareholder may be required if the business line is in a restricted sector.

Special Licenses for Certain Industries

Some sectors, like retail in some regions, transport, education and logistics, require additional licenses or must meet special conditions beyond the main company formation Vietnam.

Other industries, such as software development, consulting and wholesale, typically do not need extra permits (though local licensing should still be checked).

Capital Requirements

While many business types do not have a fixed statutory minimum capital, the investment should reflect your business plan and operational needs to ensure smooth functioning.

For service-oriented businesses, USD 10,000 is often cited by advisors as a practical benchmark. The full registered capital must generally be committed within 90 days of Vietnam business incorporation.

Registered Office Address

Every company must provide a registered address in a commercial building or a valid business-use premises (not purely residential in most cases). Virtual offices are generally accepted for certain service-based businesses, but you must ensure the address is properly zoned and complies with local regulations. Physical location is safer, especially for manufacturing or retail operations.

Appointing Company Officers

Your company must have at least one Legal Representative in Vietnam to manage daily operations. This can be a local resident or a foreigner (subject to relevant work permit or residence requirements).

Vietnam company incorporation requires several key documents to ensure full compliance with local regulations:

• Articles of Association/Company Charter: Details the rules for governance, management and internal operations.

• Company Charter (if separate from Articles of Association): Outlines the company's objectives, business scope and capital structure.

• Company Minutes (if applicable): Records of initial decisions made by the founders or board during setup.

• Notarized Passport of Authorized Representative: Valid passport of the company's legal representative in Vietnam, notarized for official use.

• Lease Agreement/Registered Address Proof: Valid proof of the company's office location in Vietnam, including the landlord's right to lease.

• Founder/Shareholder Details: Information about the founders, including ownership shares and roles.

• Account Statement/Proof of Charter Capital: Demonstrates the initial capital deposited for the company.

• Legalisation/Translation of Foreign Documents (if applicable): Notarized and translated copies of any foreign investor documents.

• For Foreign-Invested Enterprises: Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) and Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) are required.

CSG Advisory combines deep local knowledge with hands-on experience to navigate Vietnam's business landscape and turn complex registration processes into a clear and actionable plan for investors.

Need expert assistance to register company Vietnam? CSG Advisory is your trusted Vietnam business setup consultancy for seamless business setup and expansion. We bring years of experience in helping global entrepreneurs and businesses successfully register business online in Vietnam. Our professional Vietnam company formation agents understand every step of Vietnam's legal, financial and administrative landscape and manage the entire process smoothly and quickly.

We ensure full compliance with Vietnamese regulations while helping you take advantage of 100% foreign ownership and the convenience of managing your Vietnam LLC company formation from anywhere, at any time. CSG Advisory handles all government requirements efficiently to help you save time and eliminate confusion along the way. Since we believe that every business is different, we adapt our approach to match your specific goals, budget and timelines to ensure a fast and smooth Vietnam company formation for foreign nationals.

Moreover, our pricing is fully transparent, with clear quotes that outline exactly what is included and what you will pay for. This way, you can move forward with complete confidence and no surprises. Partner with CSG Advisory today to turn the complexities of Vietnam's business landscape into a clear path toward success and long-term growth.