SBLAW - Vietnam International Law Firm

21/05/2026

VIETNAM’S LAW ON INVESTMENT 2025: SIX BREAKTHROUGH REFORMS INVESTORS SHOULD KNOW

Vietnam’s new Law on Investment 2025 marks a major step toward a more transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly business environment. The new regulations are designed to accelerate market entry, simplify administrative procedures, and provide greater certainty for both domestic and foreign investors.

Here are six key reforms businesses should pay close attention to:

✅ ERC BEFORE IRC
Foreign investors may now obtain the Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) first and complete the Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) within 12 months afterward — enabling businesses to commence operations more quickly.

✅ FLEXIBLE PROJECT DURATION
Priority sectors such as semiconductors, AI, 5G infrastructure, and R&D centers may benefit from project terms of up to 70 years, offering stronger long-term investment stability.

✅ FEWER CONDITIONAL BUSINESS LINES
The number of conditional business sectors has been reduced from 227 to 198, helping businesses reduce compliance burdens and enter the market more easily.

✅ STREAMLINED APPROVAL PROCEDURES
Certain projects may now proceed directly to investment registration without requiring Investment Policy Approval, significantly shortening administrative timelines.

✅ SIMPLIFIED OUTWARD INVESTMENT
Vietnamese enterprises investing overseas now benefit from a simplified one-step registration process instead of the previous two-step approval mechanism.

✅ THE “GREEN LANE” MECHANISM
Qualified high-tech projects in designated zones may access a special fast-track procedure based on compliance commitments, reducing the need for multiple pre-approvals.

📌 These reforms reflect Vietnam’s strong commitment to creating a more efficient, transparent, and competitive investment environment. As the legal framework continues to evolve, businesses should stay updated on the new ERC-first mechanism, evaluate opportunities under the Green Lane procedure, and ensure compliance strategies are aligned with the latest regulations.



At SB Law, we provide practical, business-oriented legal solutions to help investors and enterprises navigate Vietnam’s evolving regulatory landscape with confidence.

With extensive experience in investment, licensing, corporate, and M&A matters, SB Law proudly supports both foreign and domestic businesses in establishing and expanding their operations successfully in Vietnam.

📩 Contact SB Law for legal support and investment advisory services in Vietnam.

04/05/2026

INSTITUTIONAL REFORM: IS THE "COAT" TOO WIDE, OR ARE ENTERPRISES NOT YET FIT TO WEAR IT?

Despite the brightening economic indicators, why does the number of businesses exiting the market continue to climb? The answer lies in the "gap" between policy-making and practical ex*****on.

At a recent symposium, experts identified 3 major hurdles preventing businesses from fully reaping the benefits of reform:

⚖️ Emerging Legal Risks: The explosion of the digital era and AI brings immense opportunities but is accompanied by legal "traps" in data security and intellectual property that many firms have never faced before.

📉 Compliance Pressure: Green standards (ESG) and carbon emission reporting are becoming the new "barriers to entry," requiring businesses to master international "rules of the game."

🐢 Ex*****on Lag: While central policies are opening up, local implementation often encounters stubborn bottlenecks that are difficult to resolve.

💡 STRATEGIC ADVICE FROM SB LAW:
In a shifting institutional landscape, legal proactivity is your most resilient shield. Instead of waiting for challenges to arise, businesses should:

Conduct periodic compliance audits.

Stay ahead of new regulations regarding digital assets and data privacy.

Develop a long-term legal strategy to maximize incentives from institutional reforms.
https://vietnamfinance.vn/doanh-nghiep-chua-huong-tron-loi-ich-tu-cai-cach-the-che-d144177.html

👉 Is your business facing hurdles with new procedures or regulations? Let SB LAW be your trusted partner!

HANOI OFFICE:
3rd Floor, Kinh Do Building, 292 Tay Son Street, D**g Da District.
HO CHI MINH CITY OFFICE:
6th Floor, PDD Building, 162 Pasteur Street, District 1.

📞 Hotline: (+84) 904 340 664
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.sblaw.vn
📱 Zalo/WhatsApp: (+84) 904 340 664

SB LAW – Your Partner for Success and Legal Peace of Mind.

(VNF) - Dù Nghị quyết 68 đã tạo ra nhiều kỳ vọng về một môi trường kinh doanh thông thoáng hơn, song theo LS Nguyễn Thanh Hà, Chủ tịch Công ty Luật SBLAW, thực tế triển khai vẫn tồn tại không ít rào cản khiến doanh nghiệp chưa thể hưởng ...

02/05/2026

Establishing a Malaysian-Invested Company in Vietnam
With Vietnam emerging as a key destination for Malaysian investors, setting up a business here requires a clear understanding of legal procedures and compliance requirements.
At SB Law, we provide comprehensive legal support—from initial consultation to full business operation—ensuring a smooth and efficient setup process.
🔹 Key Steps:
• Obtain the Investment Registration Certificate (IRC)
• Complete Enterprise Registration to receive the ERC, tax code, and corporate seal
🔹 Our Services Include:
• Advising on optimal business structure
• Handling IRC & ERC applications
• Drafting legal documents
• Ensuring regulatory compliance
• Post-licensing support
With deep expertise in foreign investment, SB Law is committed to accompanying clients every step of the way—turning your expansion plans into reality in Vietnam.
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🛡️ SBLAW – Giải pháp pháp luật Chiến lược cho Doanh nghiệp
📞 Hotline: 090 434 06 64
🌐 Website: https://vi.sblaw.vn/
📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/
📍 Hanoi Office: 3rd Floor, Kinh Do Building, 292 Tay Son, D**g Da District.
📍HCM Ofice: Tầng 6, Tòa nhà PDD, 162 Pasteur, Quận 1.

01/05/2026

INVESTING FROM INDONESIA: OPPORTUNITIES IN VIETNAM

Indonesia is one of Vietnam’s key economic partners within ASEAN. Thanks to similarities in business practices and regional agreements such as ATIGA and RCEP, Indonesian investors are increasingly expanding into Vietnam, especially in e-commerce, consumer goods, and logistics.

However, setting up a business in Vietnam can involve various challenges, including administrative procedures, market access conditions, and sector-specific regulations. Without proper preparation, investors may face delays or unexpected compliance risks.

SB LAW supports Indonesian investors with:

Investment structuring advice: Recommending suitable business models and capital arrangements.

Licensing procedures: Handling IRC, ERC, and related processes efficiently and in compliance with regulations.

ASEAN-related benefits: Assisting in applying tariff incentives and rules of origin under ATIGA and RCEP.

Legal compliance support: Covering sub-licenses, trademark registration, and foreign labor matters.

With strong local expertise, SB LAW helps Indonesian businesses establish and grow steadily in Vietnam.
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📍Hanoi Office: 3rd Floor, Kinh Do Building, 292 Tay Son, D**g Da District.
📍HCM Ofice: Tầng 6, Tòa nhà PDD, 162 Pasteur, Quận 1
🌐 Website: sblaw.vn
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Hotline: 090 434 06 64

30/04/2026

INVESTING FROM THE NETHERLANDS: CONNECTING EUROPE – OPTIMIZING GROWTH
The Netherlands currently stands as the largest EU investor in Vietnam, bringing forth high-tech projects, sustainable agriculture, and modern logistics. However, to fully leverage the EU- VietNam Free trade agreement (EVFTA) and optimize operational structures in the local market, Dutch enterprises require a solid legal foundation from the very beginning.
A lack of familiarity with the differences between the Vietnamese legal system and international standards, coupled with administrative hurdles, can lead to project delays or the loss of specific tax and investment incentives.
SB LAW provides comprehensive legal solutions for Dutch investors:
Strategic investment structuring: Advising on optimal business models (LLC, JSC, or Representative Offices) to ensure seamless alignment between commercial objectives and local regulatory requirements.
Precision licensing ex*****on: Acting as your authorized representative to navigate the end-to-end process of obtaining the Investment Registration Certificate (IRC), Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC), and necessary sub-licenses with speed and compliance.
Compliance & Tax optimization: Maximizing financial advantages by leveraging EVFTA provisions, customs preferences, and corporate income tax incentives in sectors where Dutch expertise excels.
Proactive risk management: Providing long-term legal counsel on labor regulations, complex commercial contracts.
By combining an understanding of international business culture with practical expertise in Vietnam, SB LAW serves as a trusted bridge, enabling Dutch investors to confidently break through and achieve sustainable development.
📩 Contact SB LAW directly for in-depth consultation on the roadmap for establishing Dutch-invested enterprises in Vietnam.

📍Hanoi Office: 3rd Floor, Kinh Do Building, 292 Tay Son, D**g Da District.
📍HCM Ofice: Tầng 6, Tòa nhà PDD, 162 Pasteur, Quan 1
🌐 Website: sblaw.vn
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Hotline: 090 434 06 64

28/04/2026

Legal Advice on Tax Filing Deadlines and Penalties
Question:
I am a household business operating in Hanoi. I have heard that in April 2026 there are several changes regarding tax filing deadlines, and late submission may result in heavy penalties. Could you advise on the specific deadlines applicable to different revenue levels and the penalties for late submission?
Answer:
Complying with tax filing deadlines is not only a legal obligation but also helps household businesses avoid unnecessary financial penalties. Pursuant to Decree No. 68/2026/ND-CP and Circular No. 18/2026/TT-BTC, the deadlines for submission in April 2026 are classified in detail based on the business’s annual revenue.
Specifically, for household businesses with annual revenue of VND 500 million or less, the deadline for providing bank account or e-wallet information (Form No. 01/BK-STK) is April 20, 2026. For larger-scale businesses with revenue exceeding VND 50 billion, the same deadline of April 20, 2026 applies for completing account notifications, first-quarter tax filings, and inventory reports. Meanwhile, household businesses with revenue from VND 500 million to VND 3 billion per year are given a slightly longer timeline, with the deadline for submitting tax declaration Form 01/CNKD and related information being April 30, 2026. It should be noted that April 30 is a public holiday; therefore, under general provisions of the Law on Tax Administration, the deadline may be extended to the next working day. However, to avoid any risk, businesses are advised to complete submissions before the holiday.
In the event of late submission of tax filings, household businesses will be subject to penalties in accordance with Decree No. 125/2020/ND-CP and Decree No. 310/2025/ND-CP. The lightest penalty is a warning if the delay is from 1 to 5 days and there are mitigating circumstances. However, if the delay ranges from 1 to 30 days (without mitigating circumstances), fines may range from VND 1 million to VND 2.5 million. Penalties increase progressively depending on the length of delay, reaching VND 4 million to VND 7.5 million for delays of 61 to 90 days, or over 91 days without additional tax payable. Notably, the highest penalty may reach VND 12.5 million for delays exceeding 90 days where additional tax is payable. These penalties apply to individuals/household businesses; for organizations, the fines are doubled (up to VND 25 million) in accordance with general rules on administrative tax violations.
In addition to monetary penalties, household businesses are also required to implement remedial measures, namely paying the full amount of late payment interest to the state budget. This interest is typically calculated at 0.03% per day on the outstanding tax amount. Over time, this can accumulate into a significant cost.
To ensure compliance and protect their interests, household businesses should proactively review their revenue levels to determine the correct category and applicable deadlines.
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Let SBLAW help you transform creative strength into a sustainable commercial advantage!
STRATEGIC CONSULTATION CONTACT:
Hotline: (+84) 904 340 664
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.baohothuonghieu.com
SBLAW Office:
Hanoi: 3rd Floor, Kinh Do Building, 292 Tay Son, D**g Da Dist.
HCMC: 6th Floor, PDD Building, 162 Pasteur, District 1.

28/04/2026

Legal Advice on Probation Period and Salary During Probation

Question:

I am about to sign a probation agreement with a company. Under current laws, what is the maximum probation period for different positions? Additionally, how is probation salary regulated? Is it possible for me to receive up to 100% of the official salary during probation?

Answer:

Probation is an important initial stage in the employment relationship and is specifically governed by the 2019 Labor Code to protect the rights of both employees and employers. Pursuant to Articles 24 and 25, probation may be included in the employment contract or set out in a separate probation agreement. However, the key principle is that an employee may only be subject to probation once for a particular job. Notably, for employment contracts with a term of less than one month, probation is not permitted in order to ensure stability for short-term work.
Regarding the maximum probation period, the law classifies it based on the nature and complexity of each position. For enterprise management positions as defined under the Law on Enterprises and the Law on Management and Use of State Capital, the probation period may be up to 180 days. For positions requiring professional or technical qualifications at college level or higher, the probation period must not exceed 60 days. For jobs requiring intermediate-level qualifications, technical workers, or professional staff, the maximum probation period is 30 days. For other general or simple jobs, the probation period must not exceed 06 working days.

With respect to salary, Article 26 of the 2019 Labor Code provides that the probation salary is subject to agreement between the parties but must be at least 85% of the official salary for that position. Importantly, the law only sets a minimum threshold and does not impose a maximum limit. Therefore, if the employer highly values the candidate’s capability, the parties may agree on a probation salary equal to 100% of the official salary. Another advantage for both parties is that during the probation period, either party may terminate the agreement without prior notice and without compensation if the job is deemed unsuitable.
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Let SBLAW help you transform creative strength into a sustainable commercial advantage!
STRATEGIC CONSULTATION CONTACT:
Hotline: (+84) 904 340 664
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.baohothuonghieu.com
SBLAW Office:
Hanoi: 3rd Floor, Kinh Do Building, 292 Tay Son, D**g Da Dist.
HCMC: 6th Floor, PDD Building, 162 Pasteur, District 1.

23/04/2026

SBLAW COMMEMORATES WORLD INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DAY 2026: EMPOWERING THE SPORTS INDUSTRY

"Sports is more than just the game; it is an industry built on invaluable intellectual assets."

In the sports sector, value is not only measured by trophies but is crystallized in broadcasting rights, athlete image rights, equipment design technologies, and brand identity. In today's fierce competition, has your business secured an optimal strategy to protect these "intangible intellectual values"?

In celebration of World IP Week 2026, SBLAW is proud to introduce our Strategic Consulting & Comprehensive IP Protection Program, specifically designed for enterprises, clubs, and organizations within the sports and commercial sectors:

Comprehensive Solutions from SBLAW’s IP Attorneys:

IP Audit & Legal Framework: Our legal team directly assesses your IP portfolio, from digital content copyrights to technical innovations in sports equipment.

Global Registration: Leveraging nearly 20 years of expertise, SBLAW supports businesses in registering trademarks, designs, and patents in Vietnam and across global markets.

Enforcement & Dispute Resolution: Beyond establishing rights, we represent clients in fighting infringement and protecting brand reputation before IP Courts, Arbitration, Customs, and Market Surveillance authorities.

Let SBLAW help you transform creative strength into a sustainable commercial advantage!

STRATEGIC CONSULTATION CONTACT:

Hotline: (+84) 904 340 664

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.baohothuonghieu.com

SBLAW Office:

Hanoi: 3rd Floor, Kinh Do Building, 292 Tay Son, D**g Da Dist.

HCMC: 6th Floor, PDD Building, 162 Pasteur, District 1.

&A

23/04/2026

Establishing a China-invested company in Vietnam: Trends and legal considerations

Amid the ongoing global supply chain restructuring, Vietnam continues to be a preferred destination for Chinese investors, particularly in manufacturing, trading, and logistics. Its geographic proximity to China, competitive costs, and extensive network of free trade agreements position Vietnam as a strategic choice under the “China+1” model.

From a legal perspective, Chinese investors establishing a company in Vietnam are classified as foreign investors and must comply with market access conditions under Vietnamese law. The standard process involves two mandatory steps: obtaining an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) and an Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC).

Key legal considerations include:

Not all sectors are fully open; certain industries are subject to conditions or foreign ownership limitations
Investor documents must be consular legalized before use in Vietnam
The project location must comply with zoning and permitted business use
Capital contribution, foreign exchange control, and investment capital accounts are strictly regulated

In practice, insufficient assessment of market access conditions or incomplete documentation is a common cause of delays in licensing.

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📞 Hotline: 090 434 06 64
🌐 Website: https://vi.sblaw.vn/
📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/
📍 Hanoi Office: 3rd Floor, Kinh Do Building, 292 Tay Son, D**g Da District.
📍HCM Ofice: Tầng 6, Tòa nhà PDD, 162 Pasteur, Quận 1.

21/04/2026

LEGAL DUE DILIGENCE REPORT – THE KEY TO SECURE BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS

Are you planning to acquire a potential business or looking to inject capital into the Vietnamese market?

In M&A transactions and capital investments, risks often hide behind impressive financial figures. A minor legal oversight can lead to multi-million dollar disputes or operational paralysis in the future.

SBLAW is proud to offer professional Legal Due Diligence (LDD) services, providing businesses and investors with a comprehensive and transparent overview before any formal commitment is made.

Why choose SBLAW for Legal Due Diligence?

Expert Team: Our seasoned lawyers possess deep knowledge of local regulations and international legal standards.

Comprehensive Scope: We scrutinize everything from legal status, capital structure, and internal governance to tax obligations, labor issues, intellectual property, and potential litigation risks.

Specialized for Foreign Investors: SBLAW excels in helping international investors navigate the complex regulatory landscape in Vietnam, ensuring compliance with investment conditions and capital protection mechanisms.

Actionable Insights: We don't just identify "red flags"; we provide strategic remedies and negotiation tactics to safeguard our clients' interests.

Let SBLAW be your solid legal shield, empowering you to execute successful investment transactions with total confidence!

CONTACT US:

🌐 Website: sblaw.vn

📧 Email: [email protected]

📞 Hotline: 090434066

20/04/2026

New points of IP law