Can a Foreigner Own a Business in Vietnam?

Yes, foreigners can legally own a business in Vietnam, and the country has become one of Southeast Asia’s most attractive destinations for international investment. Vietnam’s legal framework allows foreign investors to establish and operate companies across a wide range of industries, although certain sectors may have restrictions or require additional approvals.

Ownership Options for Foreign Investors

Foreign entrepreneurs typically establish businesses in Vietnam through foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs). Common structures include:

• 100% foreign-owned limited liability companies (LLCs)
• Joint venture companies with Vietnamese partners
• Joint-stock companies (JSCs) for larger or investment-focused businesses

In many industries, foreigners may hold up to 100% ownership in many permitted sectors, subject to Vietnam’s foreign investment regulations.

Key Licensing Requirements

To start a foreign-owned company in Vietnam, investors usually need to complete two main steps:

1. Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) – approval for the investment project
2. Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) – official company registration

Additional permits or sector-specific licenses may be required depending on the business activity.

Industries with Restrictions

While Vietnam is generally open to foreign investment, some sectors are subject to foreign ownership limits or conditional investment requirements under Vietnam’s investment regulations, including:

• Banking and certain financial services
• Telecommunications
• Aviation
• Certain logistics services
• Certain retail or distribution activities

These restrictions are outlined in Vietnam’s foreign investment regulations and international trade agreements.

Businesses planning to establish a company in Vietnam often work with experienced corporate service providers such as Offshore Company Corp to navigate licensing procedures, regulatory compliance, and market entry strategies.

Disclaimer: This content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice. Foreign investment regulations and licensing requirements in Vietnam may change over time.