So, you’ve got a brilliant business name in mind for your venture in Vietnam—maybe it’s catchy, unique, or just feels right. But how do you register business name to make it officially yours? At La Défense, we’ve noticed lots of folks mean “trademark” when they say “business name,” so we’ll guide you through protecting it that way. It’s simpler than you think, and it’s a game-changer for your brand. Let’s get started!
Why Register Your Business Name as a Trademark?
In Vietnam, your “business name” might already be part of your company registration (more on that later), but that doesn’t fully protect it. A trademark locks in your name, logo, or slogan nationwide, stopping copycats from stealing your vibe. It’s perfect if you’re selling goods, offering services, or building a brand people recognize. Plus, that “®” symbol? Instant cred. Here’s how to do it with the National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP).
Step 1: Pick a Standout Name
Your business name needs to be distinctive—no generic stuff like “Coffee Shop” unless it’s got a twist (e.g., “Saigon Brew Bliss”). Check if it’s too similar to existing trademarks—NOIP won’t approve lookalikes. Unsure? At La Défense, we’ll run a quick search to save you headaches later.
Step 2: Define Your Classes
Trademarks in Vietnam (and globally) are tied to “classes”—categories of goods or services. Selling clothes? That’s Class 25. Running a café? Class 43. Pick the right ones—each class costs extra, starting at VND 1,000,000 (around USD 40) to file. Multi-class brand? We’ll help you map it out.
Step 3: Gather Your Paperwork
Ready to file? Here’s what NOIP needs:
- Application Form: Details about you (or your company) and your name/logo.
- Sample of the Mark: Five copies—think logo designs or stylized text (min. 8cm x 8cm).
- Power of Attorney: If we’re filing for you (spoiler: we can!).
- ID/Business Proof: Passport for individuals, or your company’s registration certificate.
- Fee Receipt: Base fee’s VND 1,000,000 per class, plus VND 550,000 per extra class.
Got docs in English? They’ll need notarized Vietnamese translations. At La Défense, we handle that fuss for you.
Step 4: Submit to NOIP
Send your dossier to the National Office of Intellectual Property in Hanoi—or their branches in Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang. Options:
– In Person: Drop it off.
– By Mail: Post it in.
– With Us: Let La Défense file electronically or on-site—your call!
Once submitted, you’ll get a filing number to track your progress.
Step 5: Wait and Watch
Here’s the timeline:
– Formality Check: 1–2 months to confirm your docs are complete.
– Publication: 2 months in NOIP’s Gazette—anyone can oppose your mark here.
– Substantive Review: 18–20 months to dig into uniqueness and conflicts.
Total wait? About 20–24 months if smooth. If NOIP spots issues (e.g., a similar mark), you’ll get a rejection notice. Responding takes finesse—we’ve got your back at La Défense.
Step 6: Get Your Certificate
Approved? You’ll receive a Trademark Registration Certificate—your business name’s now legally yours in Vietnam! It lasts 10 years, renewable for VND 700,000 per class. Keep using it, or it could lapse.
Foreigners Doing This? Totally!
Not Vietnamese? No worries—foreigners can register trademarks too, thanks to the Paris Convention. No local company needed, but docs must be in Vietnamese. Filing from abroad? We at La Défense can be your local lifeline.
Business Name vs. Company Name: A Quick Note
Confused yet? In Vietnam, your “company name” (e.g., “ABC Co., Ltd.”) is registered with the Department of Planning and Investment (DPI) when you set up a business—quick and separate, about 3–5 days. But it’s not a trademark—it won’t stop others using “ABC” for their brand. Trademarking your “business name” (the market-facing one) via NOIP is the real protection play.
Why It’s a Must
Vietnam’s buzzing—e-commerce, startups, you name it. Registering your business name as a trademark keeps it yours, builds trust, and sets you apart. Skip it, and someone could swoop in—ouch.
Ready to Lock It In?
Registering your business name as a trademark in Vietnam takes 20–24 months and starts at VND 1,000,000 per class. It’s your shield in a growing market. At La Défense, we’ve mastered this process—searches, filings, fixes, done. Don’t risk your brand—contact us today, and we’ll get your name protected, whether you’re local or global. Your business deserves to shine—let’s make it official!
Read more:
- Can I Register a Trademark Without a Company in the USA?
- Can a Foreigner Register a Trademark in the US?
- Seminar on “Protection and Enforcement of Trademark Rights on E-Commerce Platforms”
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