Vietnam’s economy showed remarkable resilience, marked by a positive GDP growth of 7.09 percent. Despite facing external challenges and the adverse impact of Typhoon Yagi, the country’s economic rebound highlighted its robust recovery and adaptability.
As one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing business destinations, the country is attracting Australian companies in industries like construction, technology, finance, and renewable energy.
However, to operate legally in Vietnam, Australian businesses must comply with strict document legalisation procedures, ensuring their corporate paperwork is recognised by Vietnamese authorities.
Unlike countries that are part of The Hague Apostille Convention, Vietnam requires full embassy legalisation of foreign business documents. Without this step, essential filings—such as company registration, tax identification, and licensing applications—may be rejected, delaying business operations.
Why Legalisation Matters for Australian Companies in Vietnam
Foreign businesses in Vietnam are regulated under the Law on Enterprises and the Law on Investment, both of which require companies to submit authenticated corporate documents before starting operations.
Whether you are setting up a wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE), entering a joint venture, or expanding an existing business, legalisation ensures that your Australian-issued documents hold validity under Vietnamese law.
Without properly attested corporate records, businesses may face:
- Delays in registration with the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI)
- Challenges in opening a corporate bank account
- Difficulties securing business visas for foreign executives and staff
- Rejection of commercial contracts with Vietnamese partners
Key Documents for Legalisation
The type of documents requiring legalisation depends on the business structure and industry. However, Australian companies typically need to legalise the following:
Business Registration and Compliance Documents
- Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) Company Extract
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Company Constitution (required for governance structure)
- Board of Directors’ Resolutions (authorising transactions in Vietnam)
Legal and Financial Documents
- Shareholders Agreements (if entering a joint venture)
- Power of Attorney (for appointing a local representative)
- Financial Statements (for taxation and business registration)
- Bank Reference Letters (required for corporate account setup)
Commercial Contracts and Licenses
- Franchise Agreements (for businesses entering the retail sector)
- Trade Licenses (for import/export operations)
- Intellectual Property (IP) Agreements (if protecting trademarks and patents)
Emerging Challenges in Vietnam’s Legalisation Process
Vietnam’s legal and investment environment is continuously evolving, and new requirements may emerge that affect document recognition. Some of the common hurdles Australian companies face include:
Frequent regulatory changes: Updates to foreign investment laws can impact document acceptance.
Processing delays at government agencies: Inconsistent turnaround times at DFAT and embassies can slow approvals.
Language barriers: Some Vietnamese authorities may require Vietnamese translations of legalised documents.
Industry-specific compliance issues: Sectors like education, healthcare, and finance may have additional documentation requirements.
To avoid legal pitfalls, businesses should stay updated on Vietnam’s regulatory framework and ensure all corporate documents meet compliance standards before submission.
Streamline the Legalisation Process with Authentifier
With Vietnam’s complex requirements, navigating the legalisation process alone can be time-consuming and costly. Authentifier offers a fast, expert-managed solution to help Australian businesses complete the legalisation process efficiently.
Our services include:
✅ End-to-end document authentication – from notarisation to embassy legalisation
✅ Real-time tracking – monitor the status of your documents every step of the way
✅ Compliance guidance – ensure all submissions meet Vietnam’s regulatory standards
✅ Urgent processing – fast-tracked legalisation for time-sensitive business transactions
Expand into Vietnam with Confidence
For Australian companies looking to enter Vietnam, securing properly legalised documents is not just a requirement—it’s a strategic necessity. Avoid unnecessary delays, protect your business interests, and ensure a smooth market entry with expert legalisation support from Authentifier.
Contact us today– Let Authentifier handle the process—efficiently, accurately, and hassle-free!
