Vietnam has become one of the most attractive destinations for foreign entrepreneurs in Southeast Asia. With its growing middle class, strategic location, and supportive government policies, it’s no wonder that more and more expatriates are choosing to start businesses here. But while the opportunities are real, so are the legal challenges. If you’re an expat business owner—or planning to become one—understanding the legal landscape is not optional. It’s essential.
To protect your investment and ensure smooth operations, here are the core legal services every expat business owner in Vietnam needs, and how a trusted law firm like La Défense can support you along the way.
Company Formation & Licensing
Setting up a business in Vietnam involves more than just submitting paperwork. Foreign investors must navigate sector restrictions, minimum capital requirements, and approvals from various government agencies. Whether you’re starting a 100% foreign-owned company, a joint venture, or a representative office, the licensing process must be handled with precision.
At La Défense, we assist expat clients from A to Z:
– Advising on the most suitable business structure
– Drafting and submitting investment registration and enterprise registration applications
– Liaising with government officials to expedite approvals
– Ensuring compliance with sector-specific laws (e.g. education, e-commerce, F&B)
Reviewing & Drafting Contracts
In Vietnam, contracts are not just legal documents—they’re your main line of protection in case of disputes. From lease agreements and employment contracts to supplier and service agreements, having professionally drafted documents is critical.
Many expat entrepreneurs run into trouble by using poorly translated templates or informal verbal deals. A qualified lawyer will help you:
– Draft clear, enforceable contracts under Vietnamese law
– Negotiate fair terms with Vietnamese partners or clients
– Anticipate and mitigate potential risks in writing
La Défense ensures that your contracts reflect your business goals, reduce liabilities, and provide strong legal standing in case of conflict.
Employment & Labor Compliance
Hiring in Vietnam comes with strict labor regulations, including mandatory social insurance, minimum wage rules, and employee rights protections. For expat business owners unfamiliar with local HR norms, mistakes can lead to fines or lawsuits.
We help you stay compliant by:
– Drafting employment contracts in line with the Labor Code
– Advising on termination procedures and severance obligations
– Guiding you on internal labor rules and policies
– Assisting with work permits and visa support for foreign employees
At La Défense, we act as your outsourced HR legal department—ensuring peace of mind while you build a strong, compliant team.
Ongoing Corporate Compliance
Once your company is registered, the work doesn’t stop. Annual filings, bookkeeping, tax reporting, and compliance updates are mandatory—and easy to miss if you’re new to Vietnam.
La Défense offers ongoing corporate legal support, including:
– Monitoring changes in corporate laws and regulations
– Assisting with board resolutions and shareholder meetings
– Preparing annual legal reports and internal corporate documents
– Liaising with your accountants to ensure financial compliance matches legal obligations
Our team works closely with your business throughout the year to ensure you remain compliant and audit-ready.
Dispute Resolution & Commercial Litigation
Even with the best planning, disputes can arise—whether with clients, partners, landlords, or employees. In these situations, you need local legal experts who can represent you effectively in negotiations, arbitration, or court proceedings.
La Défense is recognized as one of the top dispute resolution firms in Hanoi. We provide:
– Strategic advice before litigation becomes necessary
– Mediation and negotiation services to resolve disputes quickly
– Legal representation in court or arbitration when required
Our goal is always to protect your business while minimizing disruption and reputational harm.
Intellectual Property Protection
If your business involves branding, creative work, or innovation, IP protection is a must. Vietnam’s IP enforcement system has improved, but registration is still the strongest defense against infringement.
We assist with:
– Trademark registration and monitoring
– Drafting IP assignment or licensing agreements
– Taking legal action in cases of brand or copyright misuse
La Défense helps safeguard your ideas, designs, and reputation in a competitive market.
Exit Strategies & Business Restructuring
Business plans change. You may want to restructure your company, bring in new investors, or close operations entirely. Each scenario requires legal guidance to protect your financial interests and minimize liabilities.
We handle:
– Share transfers and capital increases
– Business dissolution and liquidation
– M&A due diligence and negotiation support
No matter your business stage—entry, growth, or exit—La Défense ensures every transition is smooth, compliant, and secure.
Why Work With La Défense?
We’re not just lawyers—we’re partners in your business journey. As a boutique law firm in Hanoi specializing in foreign investment and dispute resolution, La Défense understands the unique challenges faced by expat business owners in Vietnam.
Here’s what sets us apart:
– Internationally trained lawyers with deep local knowledge
– Bilingual communication and culturally sensitive advice
– Transparent fees and practical, client-first solutions
– Proven track record in supporting SMEs and startups run by expats
Whether you’re just getting started or scaling your operations, La Défense provides the legal backbone your business needs to grow confidently.
Starting and running a business as an expat in Vietnam is an exciting opportunity—but it’s also a legal balancing act. Don’t wait until there’s a problem to bring in a lawyer. Proactive legal support is the smartest investment you can make in your venture.
At La Défense, we’re here to help you focus on building your vision—while we take care of the legal details.
Contact us today to book a consultation with our expat business legal team.
Read more:
- Business Licensing and Registration Services for Expats
- Legal Compliance for Foreign-Owned Company in Vietnam
- How to Avoid Legal Pitfalls with Legal Services for Foreigners in Vietnam