Steps to Set Up a Company in Vietnam (updated 2026)

The steps to set up a company in Vietnam (updated 2026) include: choosing the type of business entity, naming the company, determining the registered office address, registering business lines, determining charter capital, preparing business registration documents, submitting the company establishment application, receiving the Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC), and completing post-establishment procedures as prescribed by law.

The demand for company formation in Vietnam, opening a company, and business registration in Vietnam is increasing among individuals, household businesses, and domestic and foreign investors. However, many people still face difficulties when carrying out company establishment procedures due to a lack of understanding of the process, required documents, business registration conditions, or legal obligations after obtaining a business license. For foreign investors, the procedure for establishing an FDI company in Vietnam also requires meeting additional conditions regarding investment and market access as prescribed by current law.

In this article, Viet An Law Firm will provide detailed guidance on the steps to establish a company in Vietnam in 2026, including the business registration process, required documents, processing time, estimated costs, and important considerations to help businesses quickly become legally operational.

What are the steps to set up a company?

The steps to set up a company in Vietnam are the legal procedures that individuals or organizations must follow to register their business and operate legally in Vietnam. The company establishment process typically includes choosing the type of business entity, preparing business registration information, drafting company establishment documents, submitting the documents to the business registration authority, receiving the ERC, and carrying out post-establishment procedures as prescribed by law.

Can this be applied to set up an FDI company?

This process applies to most company registration cases, from limited liability companies and joint-stock companies to set up an FDI company with foreign investment capital.

Summary of the process of company registration in Vietnam

Process comparison for company registration in Vietnam by type of business entity

5 mistakes to avoid when you establish a company in Vietnam

• Selecting incorrect business lines for registration: An unsuitable business sector can cause difficulties for the business during operation or in obtaining sub-licenses.
• Incomplete dossiers: Missing documents or incorrect information can lead to repeated rejections of the application.
• Identical similar company names: Having the same or confusing company name is a common mistake when starting a company.
• Misunderstanding regarding the procedure: Many businesses are not familiar with the legal process, leading to lengthy document revisions.
• Failure to perform post-establishment procedures: This is the most common mistake, resulting in tax violations or business management issues.

Which enterprise type should be chosen to establish a company in Vietnam?

Consequences of making mistakes in each step to open a company in Vietnam

Checklist: Should company formation in Vietnam be pursued?

Cách đánh giá nhanh:

Quick Assessment:

• 7–9 “Yes” answers: business registration in Vietnam is possible.
• 4–6 “Yes” answers: Further review of the plan is recommended before company registration.
• Fewer than 4 “Yes” answers: Further preparation regarding capital, business plan, or business model is recommended before opening a company.

Frequently asked questions about company formation in Vietnam

Is it possible to set up a company in Vietnam online?

Yes. Currently, businesses can submit company registration applications through the National Business Registration Portal. After the application is approved, the business follows the procedures guided by the business registration authority.

What conditions must the registered company address meet?

The company’s head office must have a clear address within the territory of Vietnam. Businesses are not allowed to locate their head office in residential apartments or locations prohibited from business activities according to the law.

Can one person register multiple companies?

Individuals have the right to establish and manage multiple businesses, except in cases restricted or prohibited by the Enterprise Law and related legal documents.

Can a foreigner establish a company in Vietnam?

Yes. Foreign investors are entitled to establish companies in Vietnam in accordance with investment laws. Depending on the business sector, investors may need to obtain an Investment Registration Certificate before registering their business.

What steps need to be taken after obtaining the ERC?

After establishing the company, businesses need to carry out tasks such as having a company seal made, registering a digital signature, opening a bank account, registering for initial tax, registering for electronic invoices, and fulfilling reporting obligations as required.

This includes completing all procedures from business registration to post-establishment tasks.

Company registration in Vietnam support services at Viet An Law Firm

Preparing business registration documents requires accuracy regarding the company name, business lines, charter capital, membership structure, and other legal information. Errors in the declaration process may lead to requests for amendments or additions to the application, or prolong the processing time.

Viet An Law Firm assists clients in reviewing documents, providing legal advice related to business registration, and handling procedures with competent state agencies. Clients requiring advice on company formation documents, business registration, or investment procedures in Vietnam are welcome to contact Viet An Law Firm for detailed support.