Comprehensive Guide to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Enterprise Establishment in HCMC

Two-Step Process for Establishing an FDI Enterprise Under the Investment Law

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's prime destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Foreign investors entering Vietnam must comply with statutory market access limitations and mandatory procedural phases.

Step 1: Investment Registration Certificate (IRC)

Investors submit application dossiers to the HCMC Department of Planning and Investment (DPI) or the HCMC Export Processing and Industrial Zones Authority (HEPZA). Statutory appraisal takes 15 business days upon receipt of complete valid documents.

• Dossier includes: Investment project proposal, financial capability proof (bank balance or audited financial statements), and valid office/factory lease agreements.

Step 2: Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC)

Following IRC issuance, investors submit company registration dossiers to the Business Registration Division to receive an Enterprise Code and corporate seal within 3 business days.

Step 3: Direct Investment Capital Account (DICA) & Capital Contribution

Foreign investors must open a Direct Investment Capital Account (DICA) at an authorized commercial bank in Vietnam and remit statutory charter capital within 90 days from ERC issuance. Capital transfers bypassing DICA violate foreign exchange controls.