Background Opening

Why Investors Choose Vietnam?

Vietnam continues to be one of Asia’s most attractive investment destinations for manufacturing, technology, retail, professional services and consumer-driven industries.

  • Strong Economic Growth

    A dynamic economy supported by international trade, industrial development and increasing consumer demand.

  • Strategic Regional Location

    Direct access to major Asian markets and global supply chains.

  • Competitive Operating Costs

    Skilled workforce and cost-efficient business environment compared with many regional markets.

  • Growing Investment Opportunities

    Expanding opportunities across manufacturing, services, technology, logistics, retail and consumer sectors.

business

Find the Most Suitable Structure for Your Business

Dscf0642

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC)

Best for:

Foreign investors, SMEs, startups and family-owned businesses seeking a simple and efficient business structure in Vietnam.

Key Advantages

  • Can be established by a single investor or multiple members
  • Simple management and decision-making structure
  • Limited liability protection for shareholders
  • Lower compliance and administrative burden
  • Most popular choice for foreign-invested companies

Read More

JOINT STOCK COMPANY (JSC)

Best for:

Businesses planning large-scale operations, multiple investors, fundraising activities or future public listing.

Key Advantages

  • Suitable for businesses with multiple shareholders
  • Flexible ownership and share transfer structure
  • Easier access to investment and fundraising opportunities
  • Ability to issue shares and bonds
  • Ideal for long-term expansion and corporate growth

Read more

business
business

BRANCH OFFICE

Best for:

Foreign companies seeking to conduct commercial activities in Vietnam without establishing a separate legal entity.

Key Advantages

  • Operates under the name of the parent company
  • Suitable for sales, business development and project execution
  • Direct connection with headquarters
  • Easier operational control by the parent company
  • Appropriate for companies already conducting business internationally

Read more

REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE

Best for:

Companies wishing to explore the Vietnamese market before making a significant investment commitment.

Key Advantages

  • Low-cost market entry option
  • Conduct market research and business development activities
  • Build relationships with customers and partners
  • Monitor and support local business opportunities
  • Ideal first step before establishing a company in Vietnam

Read more

business
Contact Experts Free

Comparisons of Company’s Type Options for Foreign Investors in Vietnam

Nature

  • Easier way to start a business
  • Ideal for smaller businesses
  • Protection of personal assets
  • Shareholder’s liability: limited to shares

Structure

  • Single-member LLC: 1 shareholder
  • Multi-member LLC: 2 – 50 members

Capitalisation

  • Capitalisation not stipulated
  • Commonly sufficient capital around USD 40,000

Benefits

  • Liability limited to charter capital
  • Less process and operational paperwork
  • Continuation regardless of shareholders’ death
  • Easier capital raising via angel investors, venture capitalists or other financial institutions
  • No double taxing
  • Enhanced business credibility due to its high transparency in operations

Nature

  • Easy setup
  • Ability to gain a presence in the market before setting up an independent company

Structure

  • No need for any shareholder(s)
  • Smaller divisions are commonly found: marketing, finance, human resources, etc.

Capitalisation

  • No capital requirements

Benefits

  • No capital requirements

Nature

  • Allow a business to gain a presence in the market before setting up a limited liability company

Structure

  • No need for any shareholder(s)
  • Local representatives (foreign/local) are sufficient

Capitalisation

  • No capital requirements

Benefits

  • Can recruit employees to handle contracts and promote sales with local partners
  • Can find goods and services purchase opportunities, and can conduct research and develop products
  • License is valid for two to five years and can be renewed, allowing participation in investment activities
  • A foreigner working at a representative office can get a work permit, a two-year multiple temporary residency visa for themselves, as well as their family in Vietnam
  • A cost-saving investment option for foreign investors with no corporate income tax, no added-value tax, no independent audit, and no financial statement
  • Easy to shut down

Nature

  • Easier way to start a business
  • Ideal for smaller businesses
  • Protection of personal assets
  • Shareholder’s liability: limited to shares

Structure

  • Single-member LLC: 1 shareholder
  • Multi-member LLC: 2 – 50 members

Capitalisation

  • Capitalisation not stipulated
  • Commonly sufficient capital around USD 40,000

Benefits

  • Liability limited to charter capital
  • Less process and operational paperwork
  • Continuation regardless of shareholders’ death
  • Easier capital raising via angel investors, venture capitalists or other financial institutions
  • No double taxing
  • Enhanced business credibility due to its high transparency in operations

Nature

  • Easier way to start a business
  • Ideal for smaller businesses
  • Protection of personal assets
  • Shareholder’s liability: limited to shares

Structure

  • Single-member LLC: 1 shareholder
  • Multi-member LLC: 2 – 50 members

Capitalisation

  • Capitalisation not stipulated
  • Commonly sufficient capital around USD 40,000

Benefits

  • Liability limited to charter capital
  • Less process and operational paperwork
  • Continuation regardless of shareholders’ death
  • Easier capital raising via angel investors, venture capitalists or other financial institutions
  • No double taxing
  • Enhanced business credibility due to its high transparency in operations

Nature

  • Easy setup
  • Ability to gain a presence in the market before setting up an independent company

Structure

  • No need for any shareholder(s)
  • Smaller divisions are commonly found: marketing, finance, human resources, etc.

Capitalisation

  • No capital requirements

Benefits

  • No capital requirements

Nature

  • Allow a business to gain a presence in the market before setting up a limited liability company

Structure

  • No need for any shareholder(s)
  • Local representatives (foreign/local) are sufficient

Capitalisation

  • No capital requirements

Benefits

  • Can recruit employees to handle contracts and promote sales with local partners
  • Can find goods and services purchase opportunities, and can conduct research and develop products
  • License is valid for two to five years and can be renewed, allowing participation in investment activities
  • A foreigner working at a representative office can get a work permit, a two-year multiple temporary residency visa for themselves, as well as their family in Vietnam
  • A cost-saving investment option for foreign investors with no corporate income tax, no added-value tax, no independent audit, and no financial statement
  • Easy to shut down

Nature

  • Easier way to start a business
  • Ideal for smaller businesses
  • Protection of personal assets
  • Shareholder’s liability: limited to shares

Structure

  • Single-member LLC: 1 shareholder
  • Multi-member LLC: 2 – 50 members

Capitalisation

  • Capitalisation not stipulated
  • Commonly sufficient capital around USD 40,000

Benefits

  • Liability limited to charter capital
  • Less process and operational paperwork
  • Continuation regardless of shareholders’ death
  • Easier capital raising via angel investors, venture capitalists or other financial institutions
  • No double taxing
  • Enhanced business credibility due to its high transparency in operations

Foundations of a Successful Market Entry

Beyond company formation, every successful investment project requires careful planning, regulatory compliance and operational readiness. We help investors build a practical roadmap that transforms business opportunities into sustainable operations in Vietnam.

Thing Icon 1

Investment Planning & Capital Strategy

A successful market entry begins with a realistic investment strategy.

Foreign investors must determine an appropriate investment scale, ownership structure and capital allocation model that aligns with both business objectives and regulatory requirements. Beyond legal capital requirements, investors should evaluate establishment costs, operational expenses, workforce development, facilities, business expansion plans and long-term financial sustainability.

Our team helps investors develop practical investment structures that balance regulatory compliance, commercial feasibility and future growth opportunities.

Key Considerations

✓ Investment structure and ownership planning

✓ Charter capital and total investment capital

✓ Business expansion strategy

✓ Financial feasibility and cash flow planning

✓ Regulatory requirements for foreign investors

Thing Icon 2

Tax, Finance & Regulatory Compliance

Understanding Vietnam’s tax and compliance framework is essential before launching operations.

Investors must consider corporate income tax, value-added tax, foreign contractor tax, transfer pricing obligations, accounting standards, financial reporting requirements and profit repatriation regulations. Depending on the industry, location and investment scale, businesses may also be eligible for investment incentives, tax reductions and other governmental support policies.

Proper planning from the outset can significantly reduce risks, improve operational efficiency and maximize available incentives.

Key Considerations

  • Corporate tax and VAT obligations
  • Accounting and financial reporting requirements
  • Investment incentives and tax benefits
  • Profit repatriation planning
  • Ongoing compliance obligations
Thing Icon 3

Business Operations & Growth Readiness

Legal establishment alone does not guarantee business success.

Investors must build the operational foundations necessary to support sustainable growth, including workforce planning, recruitment, facilities development, supply chain arrangements, commercial contracts, internal governance systems and market positioning strategies.

Whether establishing an office, retail operation, manufacturing facility or service business, operational readiness is often the determining factor between a successful launch and costly delays.

Our multidisciplinary approach helps investors prepare not only for incorporation, but also for long-term business operations in Vietnam.

Key Considerations

  • Workforce planning and recruitment
  • Work permits and labour compliance
  •  Offices, factories and operational facilities
  • Supplier and commercial partner arrangements
  • Corporate governance and business management
  • Market positioning and business development
Contact Experts Free

Vietnam Market Entry Process

A Practical Roadmap From Business Idea To Business Operation

Entering a new market requires strategic planning, regulatory compliance and operational readiness. Our integrated approach helps investors navigate every stage of establishing and growing a business in Vietnam.

01.

Market Assessment & Feasibility

Evaluate market opportunities, industry regulations, competition and commercial viability before making investment decisions.

Key Areas:

✓ Market demand

✓ Regulatory restrictions

✓ Competitive landscape

✓ Business feasibility

02.

Entry Strategy & Investment Planning

Design the most suitable market entry model, ownership structure and investment framework aligned with your business objectives.

Key Areas:

✓ Investment structure

✓ Ownership planning

✓ Capital strategy

✓ Risk assessment

03.

Location & Operational Setup

Identify suitable premises, operational requirements and infrastructure necessary to support business activities.

Key Areas:

✓ Office location

✓ Commercial premises

✓ Factory or warehouse

✓ Operational facilities

04.

Business Establishment & Licensing

Establish your legal presence in Vietnam and obtain the approvals necessary to commence operations.

Key Areas:

✓ Company formation

✓ Investment licensing

✓ Regulatory approvals

✓ Industry-specific permits

05.

Workforce & Compliance Framework

Build a compliant operational structure through workforce planning, employment compliance and internal governance.

Key Areas:

✓ Recruitment planning

✓ Labour compliance

✓ Corporate governance

✓ Internal policies

06.

Business Launch & Growth Support

Support ongoing operations, regulatory compliance and business expansion after market entry.

Key Areas:

✓ Commercial contracts

✓ Intellectual property

✓ Legal compliance

✓ Business expansion

La Défense Highlights

Companies Incorporated

500+

Experienced Professionals

50+

Total Successful Clients

1000+

Contact Experts Free

What our clients say

Almost clients are very satisfied when chose our services. Further more, they also refer us to other customers and use other addition services

Nguyen Thi Lien

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat….

Nguyen Thi Lien

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat….

Pexels Pixabay 262391

Mr. John Louis – France Beauty JSCs

We opened a company in Vietnam to supply imported cosmetic products which is very convenient with professional legal support from La Défense. We even have business plans very quickly with the parties when the lawyer advises step by step

Pexels Andrea Piacquadio 3760339

Mr. Harry – German Technology LLC

I and investors have successfully implemented projects on information technology. The law firm has helped us to optimize a lot of costs and easily overcome legal barriers to enter the Vietnamese economic market.

Pexels Christina Morillo 1181391

Mr. Ayice Ravulapalli – Algeria Cosmetic Pharmaceutical LLC

Above all satisfied. Professional lawyer service, quick work settlement. Thanks La Défense team for supporting us.

Pexels Mentatdgt 1125028

Mr. Wong Kin Mun – Singapore F&B LLC

Over than a solution, more than a lawyer’s duty, we have found a reliable legal advisor in Vietnam.

Contact Our Consultants

Please send your question(s) by filling in this form. Our consulting team will quickly answer you via Email for a free consultation.

    FAQs

    Can I set up a company in Vietnam as a foreigner?

    Yes, foreign citizens are entitled to expand to Vietnam and incorporate a foreign-owned company in the country. However, there are certain restrictions and 100 % Foreign Invested Enterprise in Vietnam can be started only in the form of Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Joint Stock Company (JSC). Depending on the type of business entity you want to pursue, there are further regulations for foreigners to follow when establishing a company in Vietnam.

    What are the company types in Vietnam?

    The most common company types are Limited Liability Company known as LLC and Joint Stock Company known as JSC. Both types are suitable for foreigners with an LLC being recommended to smaller companies with a few owners while a JSC better fits big businesses or those that plan to go public.

    Is there any minimum capital required prior to company registration in Vietnam?

    Although the local law does not stipulate the minimum capital, 10,000 USD is commonly considered as the minimum capital investors should prove during the registration.

    Although the local law does not stipulate the minimum capital, 10,000 USD is commonly considered as the minimum capital investors should prove during the registration.

    yes. The Vietnamese law enables foreigners to open foreign-owned companies in most business sectors except for six business fields mentioned in the Negative List, namely:

    1. Drugs and narcotics,
    2. Hazardous chemicals and minerals,
    3. Range of specimens of endangered flora and fauna,
    4. Prostitution,
    5. Human trafficking, sale of human body parts and tissue,
    6. Human cloning or asexual reproduction.
    Is there any option how to expand my business without incorporating a company in Vietnam?

    Yes, there are several options suitable for investors who wish to expand without forming a legal entity.

    • HR Outsourcing
      Engage us in your expansion, and relocate your staff or hire Vietnamese professionals without incorporating a legal entity. La Défense will act as an Employer of Record (EOR), provide recruitment, payroll, business visas and work permits.
    • Local Distributor
      Market your product in Vietnam through a local distributor. La Défense will take care of shortlisting potential traders in Vietnam, and arrange meetings between them and your company. The main advantage for you is that you do not need to be physically present in Vietnam during the selection and negotiation part.
    What is the tax rate in Vietnam?

    Here is an overview taxation in Vietnam:

    Overview To Taxation In Vietnam

    Can I open bank acount without visiting Vietnam?

    Absolutely you can. We will assist you to connect with the bank to carry out the necessary procedures to open a bank account for your company. You just need to join the video call with the bank to verify your signature.

    I would like to set up a local company, but I do not have a reliable local partner to act as the shareholder. What should I do?

    Underestimating the role of a business partner or local nominee are one of the common business mistakes in Vietnam. Choosing a reliable local partner for your company is key to success in the country while reducing the potential risks. La Defense offers local nominee services without any interventions to your business processes. We also allow our partners to terminate the contract sooner that its expiry date.