Thứ Tư, 31 tháng 1, 2024

Trademark Search in Vietnam: What 5 Steps to Conduct?

  

Why Need a Trademark Search in Vietnam?

Conducting a Vietnam trademark search is an essential step in protecting your brand in the Vietnamese market. It ensures that your desired trademark is unique and available for registration, preventing potential conflicts with existing trademarks.

Methods for Conducting Trademark Search in Vietnam

There are two primary methods for conducting a Vietnam trademark search: Official Search and Commercial Search Services

1.Official Search

The Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam (NOIP) offers an online trademark search portal where you can search for existing trademarks based on the trademark name, class, and filing date. The search results will provide information on registered trademarks, including their status and ownership.

2.Commercial Search Services

Specialized trademark search firms can conduct more comprehensive and in-depth searches, including examining unregistered trademarks, non-registered prior use, and potential likelihood of confusion issues. These services may also provide expert advice on trademark strategy and registration procedures.

Vietnam Trademark Search
Vietnam Trademark Search

Step-by-Step Guide on Conducting Trademark Search in Vietnam by Official Search

Step 1: Visit the NOIP Trademark Search Portal

Step 2: Choose the Search Method

Step 3: Enter Search Criteria

Step 4: Initiate the Search

Step 5: Analyze Search Results

Step 1: Visit the NOIP Trademark Search Portal

Go to the NOIP website; and click on the “Trademarks” tab. Under the “Search” section, select “Trademark Search.”

Step 2: Choose the Search Method

Select the “Standard Search” option for a basic search based on trademark name and class. For a more comprehensive search, choose “Advanced Search” for broader criteria, including filing date and trademark details.

Step 3: Enter Search Criteria

Enter the trademark name you want to search for in the relevant field. For Advanced Search, you can also specify the class of goods or services for which you intend to register the trademark.

Step 4: Initiate the Search

Click on the “Search” button to initiate the search. The results will display a list of matching trademarks, indicating their registration status, ownership information, and filing date.

Step 5: Analyze Search Results

Carefully review the search results to identify any potentially conflicting trademarks. If there are identical or similar trademarks, you may need to consider alternative trademark options to avoid potential infringement issues.

If you are unsure about the outcome of the search or require further guidance on trademark strategy and registration procedures, consider consulting with an IP agent in Vietnam.

Why Trademark Search in Vietnam is Important?

A trademark search in Vietnam is crucial for several reasons, serving as a proactive measure to assess the availability and viability of a particular trademark before its adoption or registration. Here are key reasons why a trademark search in Vietnam is important:

1. Avoiding Infringement

Conducting a thorough trademark search in Vietnam helps businesses avoid unintentional infringement on existing trademarks. It identifies trademarks that are similar or identical to the proposed mark, preventing potential legal conflicts with established brands.

2.Legal Compliance

A comprehensive trademark search in Vietnam ensures that the intended mark complies with existing trademark laws and regulations. This helps businesses avoid legal disputes and challenges that may arise if they unknowingly adopt a mark that is already registered or in use by another entity.

3.Protecting Investments

Businesses invest significant resources in building and promoting their brand. A trademark search in Vietnam safeguards these investments by ensuring that the chosen mark is unique and can be legally protected. This prevents the risk of having to rebrand and incur additional costs in the future.

4.Securing Trademark Registration

To obtain Vietnam trademark registration, it is essential to ensure that the proposed mark is distinctive and does not conflict with existing trademarks. A Vietnam trademark search helps identify potential obstacles to registration, allowing businesses to address issues before initiating the registration process.

5.Avoiding Oppositions and Cancellations

A comprehensive trademark search in Vietnam minimizes the risk of facing oppositions during the trademark registration process. It also reduces the likelihood of third parties initiating cancellation proceedings against a registered mark, safeguarding the validity of the trademark.

6.Preserving Brand Reputation

Adopting a trademark without conducting a search may lead to unintentional association with existing brands, potentially damaging the business’s reputation. A trademark search in Vietnam ensures that the chosen mark is not linked to negative connotations or associations with other entities.

7.Strategic Decision-Making

A Vietnam trademark search provides businesses with valuable information for strategic decision-making. It helps assess the strength and uniqueness of a proposed mark in the market, allowing businesses to make informed choices about their branding strategies.

8.Market Differentiation

Ensuring the availability of a trademark helps businesses create a distinctive identity in the market. A unique and protectable mark enhances brand recognition, prevents consumer confusion, and sets the business apart from competitors.

In summary, a Vietnam trademark search is a crucial step in the brand development process, offering businesses the opportunity to make informed decisions, mitigate legal risks, and establish a strong and legally defensible brand identity. It serves as a proactive measure to protect investments and ensures compliance with trademark laws, ultimately contributing to the long-term success of the business.

About ANT Lawyers, IP agent in Vietnam

We help clients overcome cultural barriers and achieve their strategic and financial outcomes, while ensuring the best interest rate protection, risk mitigation and regulatory compliance. ANT lawyers has lawyers in Ho Chi Minh city, Hanoi,  and Danang, and will help customers in doing business in Vietnam.

Source: https://antlawyers.vn/update/trademark-search-in-vietnam.html

Thứ Ba, 30 tháng 1, 2024

How to Apply for Investment License in Vietnam?

  The procedure to apply for investment license in Vietnam is the procedure for applying for an Investment Registration Certificate in Vietnam under the Investment Law.

Depending on the size, nature, and great impact on the environment, projects nee

d special mechanisms and policies, projects that need land allocation, or projects that need to relocate large numbers of people, projects of foreign investors in the sea and islands that affect national defense and security, the procedures to apply for investment license in Vietnam may require approval of an investment policy.

In the framework of this article, we only refer to the procedure to apply for investment license in Vietnam, which is not subject to approval of investment policy.


What is an Investment Registration Certificate?

Investment registration certificate means a license issued by a competent State agency to organizations and individuals that fully satisfy the conditions for implementing an investment project, being foreign investors, or foreign organizations, organizations invest in projects in which foreign investors hold more than 50% of charter capital, or the majority of general partners are foreign individuals, for economic organizations that are partnerships.

The investment certificate contains information such as project name, investor’s name and address, investment project code, project location, land use area, objectives, and scale of project, project investment capital, project operation duration, investment project implementation schedule (capital and implementation of operational objectives), incentives, support and project conditions investment.

What are the forms of investment in Vietnam?

-Investment in establishing economic organizations.

-Investment to contribute capital, buy shares, or acquire capital contribution.

-Investment in the form of BCC contract.

-New investment forms and economic organizations according to the Government’s regulations.

What are the conditions for granting an investment registration certificate?

For an investment project that is not subject to approval of investment policies, an investor shall be granted an Investment Registration Certificate if it meets the following conditions:

-Investment projects that are not in industries or trades banned from business investment;

-Having a location for the implementation of the investment project;

-Investment projects in accordance with the planning;

-Satisfy the conditions on investment rate per land area and number of employees (if any);

-Meeting market access conditions for foreign investors.

What is the timeline for granting an investment registration certificate?

15 days from the date of receipt of the investor’s request for an Investment Registration Certificate, for an investment project that is not subject to a written approval of investment policies.

Steps to apply for investment license in Vietnam?

Normally, the procedure to apply for investment license for an investment project that is not subject to approval of investment policies is carried out as follows:

Step 1: The investor submits 01 application for the Investment Registration Certificate to the investment registration agency.

In case the investment project is implemented in 02 or more provincial-level administrative units, the investor shall submit a dossier to the Department of Planning and Investment of a province or centrally run city where the investor implements the project to set up an executive office to apply for the Investment Registration Certificate for the project.

Step 2: For an investment project that has already been operated, the investor submits a dossier according to regulations in which the investment project proposal is replaced by a report on the implementation of the investment project from the time of implementation.  The declaration is up to the time of application for the Investment Registration Certificate.

Step 3: The investment registration authority shall issue the Investment Registration Certificate to the investor within 15 days from the date of receipt of the valid dossier when the project meets the conditions.

What authority to issue an Investment Registration Certificate?

The authority to issue, amend and revoke the Investment Registration Certificate is as follows:

-Management Boards of industrial parks, export processing zones, hi-tech zones and economic zones shall grant, adjust and revoke investment registration certificates for investment projects in industrial parks, export processing zones and zones, hi-tech, economic zones, unless otherwise specified.

-The Department of Planning and Investment shall grant, adjust and revoke the Investment Registration Certificate for investment projects outside industrial parks, export processing zones, hi-tech zones, and economic zones, unless otherwise prescribed other.

-The investment registration agency where the investor implements the investment project, locates or is expected to set up an executive office for the implementation of the investment project, issues, adjusts and revokes the Investment Registration Certificate for the following investment projects: i) Investment projects implemented in 02 or more provincial-level administrative units; ii) Investment projects implemented inside and outside industrial parks, export processing zones, high-tech zones and economic zones; iii) Investment projects in industrial parks, export processing zones, high-tech zones, economic zones where the management board of industrial parks, export processing zones, hi-tech zones, economic zones has not been established or is not within the scope of management of the Management Board of industrial parks, export processing zones, high-tech zones and economic zones.

The agency receiving investment project dossiers is the agency competent to issue the Investment Registration Certificate, unless otherwise specified.

Why the investors need to apply for investment license in Vietnam?

The procedure to apply for investment license in Vietnam, or the procedure for granting an investment registration certificate in Vietnam, is an important procedure for foreign investors. It is therefore imperative that they understand the requirements and procedures of the application process. According to the historic data, investing in Vietnam can be beneficial for companies that want to penetrate a fast-growing market like Vietnam. Applying for an investment registration certificate is the first step that an investor must take to participate in the market.

When applying for an investment registration certificate in Vietnam, there are a number of documents and information that an investor must provide. Information such as legal documents, business plans and other financial documents must be provided for the investment registration to be approved.

Completing the application for an investment registration certificate is a complicated process and requires knowledge and experience. It is important that foreign investors seek the help of experts or legal advisors who are lawyers in Vietnam who understand the procedure and required documents while doing business in Vietnam.

Source: https://antlawyers.vn/library/apply-for-investment-license-in-vietnam.html

Thứ Hai, 29 tháng 1, 2024

Types of Property in Da Nang and How Property Lawyers in Da Nang Could Safeguard Transactions?

  There are several types of property in Da Nang and each might has different legal complexities for foreigners to understand when entering the market.  When it comes to purchasing or selling properties in Da Nang, Vietnam, it is essential to have the support and guidance of experienced property lawyers in Da Nang. 

Property_lawyers_in_Da_Nang

Understanding Types of Property in Da Nang that Attract Foreigners

The real estate landscape in Da Nang is currently undergoing significant changes, offering a diverse range of property options. Beside properties like condotels and luxury vacation villas, there is a notable emergence of upscale apartment complexes and detached houses in Da Nang.

Prospective buyers can carefully consider various projects currently on the market, or explore the primary market with attractive, legally sound properties. The development of high-end apartments and residential villas is an inevitable trend as the quality of life in Da Nang continues to improve.

Da Nang has become an urban area attracting not only wealthy Vietnamese but also expatriates to live and work. Compared to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang offers spacious living areas, favorable climatic conditions, and an abundance of amenities, enhancing the overall quality of life.

As a result, the real estate market in Da Nang is not only flourishing in the resort property sector but is also experiencing robust growth in the luxury residential segment, catering to long-term settlement needs.

At present, Da Nang is witnessing a significant influx of foreign direct investment (FDI). Drawing lessons from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the increased FDI often correlates with the immediate demand for housing from professionals either seeking long-term rentals or purchasing for residence.

Looking toward the future, the high-end housing market in Da Nang holds immense potential. The city’s well-developed transportation infrastructure further adds to its appeal, making riverfront and seaside urban developments highly sought after.

The real estate market in Da Nang is evolving, with a growing emphasis on upscale apartments and luxury villas. The city’s robust FDI inflow and excellent transportation network make it a promising destination for both local and international property investors. As Da Nang continues to thrive, the high-end housing trend is expected to persist, offering exciting opportunities for those looking to invest in Vietnam’s flourishing real estate market.

How Property Lawyers in Da Nang Could Help?

Property lawyers in Da Nang play a crucial role in facilitating smooth and secure real estate transactions for foreigners looking to invest in the dynamic property market of the city. Here’s how these legal professionals can assist in navigating the complexities of property transactions:

1. Legal Due Diligence:
Property lawyers in Da Nang conduct in-depth legal due diligence on the chosen property, ensuring that it has a clear and marketable title. They verify ownership, check for any encumbrances, and investigate potential legal issues that could impact the transaction.

2. Contract Review and Drafting:
Property lawyers in Da Nang thoroughly review the terms and conditions of the property transaction contracts, including the sale and purchase agreement. They ensure that all legal aspects are covered, protecting the interests of the foreign buyer. In cases where contracts need to be drafted, lawyers provide precise and comprehensive documents that comply with Vietnamese law.

3. Understanding Local Laws and Regulations:
Property laws and regulations in Vietnam can be intricate, and they may differ for foreign buyers. Property lawyers in Da Nang help foreigners comprehend these laws, ensuring compliance at every stage of the transaction. They provide insights into the legal framework, taxes, and any restrictions that may apply to non-citizens.

4. Navigating Administrative Procedures:
Purchasing property often involves dealing with various administrative procedures. Property lawyers in Da Nang guide foreign buyers through these processes, assisting with paperwork submission, obtaining necessary permits, and ensuring compliance with local regulations.

5. Resolution of Disputes:

In the unfortunate event of disputes or conflicts, property lawyers act as mediators and advocates. They help resolve issues through negotiation or, if necessary, legal proceedings, ensuring a fair and equitable resolution for their clients.

6. Local Market Knowledge:
Da Nang property lawyers possess valuable local market knowledge. They can advise foreigners on the best areas for investment, potential risks, and emerging trends, enabling informed decision-making.

7. Coordination with Other Professionals:
Property transactions often involve coordination with various professionals, such as notaries, surveyors, and real estate agents. Property lawyers in Da Nang facilitate seamless collaboration, ensuring all aspects of the transaction are considered.

8. Risk Mitigation:
Property lawyers in Da Nang identify and mitigate potential risks associated with the property transaction. Their expertise allows them to foresee challenges and provide strategic advice to safeguard the interests of their foreign clients.

Engaging property lawyers in Da Nang is not just a legal requirement but a strategic move to ensure a transparent, lawful, and smooth property acquisition process for foreign investors. These legal professionals bring a wealth of expertise, local knowledge, and a commitment to protecting the rights of their clients in the vibrant real estate landscape of Da Nang.

About ANT Lawyers, a law firm in Vietnam

We help clients overcome cultural barriers and achieve their strategic and financial outcomes, while ensuring the best interest rate protection, risk mitigation and regulatory compliance. ANT lawyers has lawyers in Ho Chi Minh city, Hanoi,  and Danang, and will help customers in doing business in Vietnam.

Source: https://antlawyers.vn/library/how-property-lawyers-in-da-nang-could-safeguard-transactions.html

Chủ Nhật, 28 tháng 1, 2024

Filing a Trademark Application in Vietnam as Compared to Your Home Country?

  

Trademark Application in Vietnam vs in Other Countries under International Treaties

The legal protection of Trademark is based on the principle of territoriality. That means each nation is free to regulate the use of intellectual property on its own territory. For instance, it can only grant protection titles to the domestic brands while denying foreigners.

In order to overcome such problems, nations around the world have been reaching and signing a number of international treaties which was built on the principle of territoriality.


There was a remarkable achievement that nations established certain rules that all Member States must respect.

Member States shall protect trademarks of companies of other Member States as if they were his own citizen (so called principle of national treatment).

In other words, assuming that Vietnam and other counties are Member States, Vietnam is bound to treat other countries’ enterprises the same rules that it applies to Vietnamese firms.

As a consequence, there are not any differences in principle when filing a Trademark application in Vietnam as compared other State Members. However, practically, for filing a Trademark application in Vietnam, there might some additional requirements or language of necessary documents as following:

1.Right to Register Trademark Application in Vietnam

According to the Law on intellectual property, foreign individuals not permanently residing in Vietnam and foreign organizations and individuals without production or business establishments in Vietnam could not file applications for Trademark registration in Vietnam by themselves but through their lawful representatives in Vietnam through a Power of Attorney.

2.Language Barrier to Register Trademark Application in Vietnam

Foreign individuals permanently residing in Vietnam and foreign organizations and individuals whose production or business establishments are in Vietnam could file Trademark application in Vietnam by themselves.

However, the language barrier might be the problem because Applicants shall fill a standard form in Vietnamese and submit this form to the NOIP accompanies by documents evidencing the registration right, the priority right or other documents supporting the application.

All these documents could be made in another language but shall be translated into Vietnamese at the request of the State administrative body for industrial property rights.

To be accepted, the sample of the Trademark must be clearly described by words in order to clarify elements of the mark and the comprehensive meaning of the mark, if any; where the mark consists of words or phrases in a foreign language, such words or phrases must be translated into Vietnamese.

3.Time To Request Priority Claim in Trademark Application in Vietnam

Priority claim shall not be automatically recognized in Vietnam, therefore the claim for the priority right must be clearly stated in the application accompanied by a copy of the first application certified by the first IP office.

4.Applying “First to use” or “first to file” Principle in Trademark Application in Vietnam

In Vietnam, “first to file” principle is applied, that is far cry from so-called “first to use” countries.

The “first to file” principle means rights in a trademark generally are acquired only through registration therefore a trademark owner can apply to Trademark registration without having used it anywhere and at any time.

Trademark rights are generally acquired through use in some other countries.

All in all, these treaties built up a harmonized system that benefits the international firms to protect their Trademark outside of the home nation.

The local qualified Intellectual Property Agent in Vietnam might support the international firms in overcoming the barrier of language and these additional requirements.

About ANT Lawyers, a law firm in Vietnam

We help clients overcome cultural barriers and achieve their strategic and financial outcomes, while ensuring the best interest rate protection, risk mitigation and regulatory compliance. ANT lawyers has lawyers in Ho Chi Minh city, Hanoi,  and Danang, and will help customers in doing business in Vietnam

Source: https://antlawyers.vn/library/trademark-application-in-vietnam.html

Chủ Nhật, 21 tháng 1, 2024

How Attorneys in Ho Chi Minh City Can Ensure Your Success in 5 Areas with Significant Investment in Ho Chi Minh City?

  Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling economic hub of Vietnam, has been a magnet for foreign investors in recent years. Its diverse range of investment opportunities spans over 5 areas: manufacturing and processing, real estate, retail and trade, financial services, and information technology. In this article, we will delve into each of these sectors, providing detailed insights and highlighting the crucial role that attorneys in Ho Chi Minh City play in helping foreign investors succeed in this dynamic market.

Manufacturing and Processing

The manufacturing and processing sector in Ho Chi Minh City has witnessed remarkable growth, driven by a skilled labor force, competitive production costs, and a strategic location within Southeast Asia. Foreign investors are drawn to this sector for opportunities in electronics, textiles, machinery, and more.

Attorneys in Ho Chi Minh City can assist foreign investors by:

Legal Due Diligence: Attorneys conduct thorough due diligence to assess the legal aspects of potential investments. This includes reviewing contracts, leases, permits, and compliance with Vietnamese regulations.

Corporate Structuring: Attorneys in Ho Chi Minh City help investors choose the right business structure, such as joint ventures or wholly foreign-owned enterprises, and navigate the registration process.

Intellectual Property Protection: Safeguarding intellectual property rights through trademark and patent registrations.

Labor and Employment: Advising on labor laws, employment contracts, and dispute resolution to ensure a smooth workforce management.

Real Estate

Ho Chi Minh City’s real estate market has been a hotspot for foreign investors, driven by urbanization, a growing middle class, and a strong demand for residential and commercial properties.

Attorneys in Ho Chi Minh City specializing in real estate can assist investors by:

Land Acquisition: Navigating the complexities of land acquisition, including lease negotiations and zoning regulations.

Property Transactions: Handling the legal aspects of property transactions, from due diligence to contract negotiations and title transfers.

Project Development: Assisting in the development of real estate projects, including securing necessary permits and licenses.

Dispute Resolution: Resolving real estate disputes and litigations to protect investors’ interests.

Retail and Trade

The retail and trade sector in Ho Chi Minh City offers substantial opportunities, driven by a youthful and increasingly affluent population. Foreign investors are tapping into this market through various channels, including e-commerce and traditional retail.

Attorneys in Ho Chi Minh City specializing in trade can help investors with:

Market Entry Strategies: Advising on the most suitable market entry strategies, such as franchising, licensing, or forming partnerships.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring compliance with trade regulations, import/export licenses, and customs procedures.

Contract Negotiations: Drafting and negotiating contracts with suppliers, distributors, and retailers.

Consumer Protection: Providing legal counsel on consumer protection laws and dispute resolution.

Financial Services

The financial services sector in Ho Chi Minh City is experiencing rapid expansion, driven by a growing economy and a burgeoning middle class. Foreign investors are entering this sector through various avenues, including banking, insurance, and fintech.

Attorneys in Ho Chi Minh City specializing in financial services can assist investors by:

Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring compliance with financial regulations and licensing requirements.

Mergers and Acquisitions: Advising on mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures within the financial industry.

Dispute Resolution: Handling financial disputes and regulatory investigations.

Investment Structuring: Structuring investment vehicles and funds for optimal efficiency.

Information and Technology

Ho Chi Minh City is emerging as a tech hub in Southeast Asia, attracting foreign investors seeking opportunities in software development, IT services, and startups.

Attorneys in Ho Chi Minh City specializing in technology can assist investors with:

Intellectual Property Protection: Safeguarding software, patents, and technology through legal means.

Startup Ventures: Advising on the legal aspects of startup formation, including incorporation, funding, and compliance.

Data Privacy and Cybersecurity: Ensuring compliance with data protection laws and cybersecurity regulations.

Contractual Agreements: Drafting and reviewing technology-related contracts and agreements.

Foreign investors eyeing opportunities in Ho Chi Minh City’s dynamic sectors, including manufacturing and processing, real estate, retail and trade, financial services, and information technology, can benefit significantly from the expertise of attorneys in the city. These legal professionals offer invaluable guidance in navigating the complexities of Vietnamese laws and regulations, ensuring compliance, protecting investments, and ultimately contributing to the success of foreign ventures in this vibrant and rapidly growing market. With the right legal support, investors can confidently seize the abundant opportunities that Ho Chi Minh City has to offer.

Attorneys in Ho Chi Minh City at ANT Lawyers

We help clients overcome cultural barriers and achieve their strategic and financial outcomes, while ensuring the best interest rate protection, risk mitigation and regulatory compliance. ANT lawyers has lawyers in Ho Chi Minh city, Hanoi,  and Danang, and will help customers in doing business in Vietnam.

Source: https://antlawyers.vn/update/how-attorneys-in-ho-chi-minh-city-help.html

Thứ Sáu, 19 tháng 1, 2024

Worldwide Personal Income Tax Declaration in Vietnam

  Foreign employees working in Vietnam must pay attention to worldwide personal income tax declaration in Vietnam to comply with legal requirements, avoid penalties, optimize tax liabilities, and maintain good standing with tax authorities in both their host and home countries.

Step-by-Step Guide on Worldwide Personal Income Tax Declaration in Vietnam 

Worldwide Personal Income Tax Declaration in Vietnam For Income From Vietnam

The company with which the foreign employee has a working contract can either submit the tax declaration on behalf of the employee; if not agreed upon, the employee may authorize an individual or another organization to submit the Personal Income Tax (PIT) on their behalf.

Since the employee has additional income from another country, they fall under the category requiring direct tax declaration to the tax authorities.



For individuals needing to declare taxes directly, if the employee has an electronic tax account, they can declare the tax directly with the tax authorities without submitting physical documents.

Employees can register for an electronic tax transaction account. After obtaining the account, employees can proceed to declare taxes on the Electronic Tax Portal.

Next, the employee will select the tax settlement category through online declaration.

The steps for online Personal Income Tax declaration in Vietnam are as follows:

Step 1:

– Access the Electronic Information Portal of the Vietnam General Department of Taxation using the registered electronic tax transaction account.

Step 2:

– Under the “Tax Settlement/Online Declaration” section, select the Personal Income Tax Settlement Form.

– Complete the online declaration form for Personal Income Tax, input all necessary information, and submit supporting documents as required.

– Enter the verification code (OTP) sent to the registered phone number with the tax authorities.

Step 3:

– After completing the tax settlement submission, the Electronic Information Portal of the General Department of Taxation will send an acknowledgment notification via email and SMS to the registered phone number.

Deadline for PIT declaration submission is the last day of April the following year.

Worldwide Personal Income Tax Declaration in Vietnam For Income From Countries with Double Tax Avoidance Agreements

In this scenario, even if the employee resides in Vietnam, if there is income from another country, they can declare and pay taxes in that country.

If the employee has already paid personal income tax in the foreign country, the amount paid can be deducted from the tax payable in Vietnam.

The procedure for directly deducting tax paid abroad from the tax payable in Vietnam is as follows:

The taxpayer submits a request dossier for tax deduction of foreign-paid taxes into taxes payable in Vietnam directly to the Tax management authority.

The dossier for worldwide personal income tax declaration in Vietnam includes:

1) A request letter for deducting foreign taxes from the tax payable in Vietnam using the prescribed form.

2) A certified copy of the foreign income tax declaration form by the taxpayer.

3) A certified copy of the foreign tax payment documents with the taxpayer’s certification.

4) The original confirmation from the foreign tax authority regarding the amount of tax paid.

Worldwide Personal Income Tax Declaration in Vietnam For Income From Countries Without Double Tax Avoidance Agreements

For income earned from a foreign country without a double taxation agreement, the taxpayer needs to conduct worldwide personal income tax declaration in Vietnam and pay taxes in Vietnam. 

As there are no double tax avoidance agreements, the taxpayer needs to check with the foreign country on the tax compliance process at the same time.

Why Comply with Worldwide Personal Income Tax Declaration in Vietnam

Foreign employees need to pay attention to worldwide personal income tax declaration in Vietnam for several important reasons:

1. Legal Compliance:
Many countries, including Vietnam, have tax regulations that require individuals to declare and pay taxes on their global income. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in legal consequences and penalties.

2. Residency Status:
Understanding and declaring worldwide income is crucial for determining residency status in the host country. Residency status often affects the applicable tax rates and the types of income subject to taxation.

3. Avoidance of Penalties:
Non-compliance with tax regulations can lead to penalties and fines. By accurately declaring worldwide income, foreign employees can avoid legal repercussions and financial penalties imposed by tax authorities.

4. Tax Credits and Deductions:
Some countries provide tax credits or deductions for foreign taxes paid on income earned abroad. By properly declaring worldwide income, foreign employees may be eligible for these credits, reducing their overall tax liability.

5. Double Taxation Avoidance:
Worldwide personal income tax declaration in Vietnam is essential to identify cases where double taxation may occur. Double taxation can happen when the same income is taxed in both the host country and the home country. Understanding and addressing this issue often involve utilizing tax treaties or credits.

6. Immigration and Visa Status:
Compliance with tax obligations is often linked to immigration and visa status. Failure to fulfill tax requirements may impact the renewal or approval of visas, potentially affecting the foreign employee’s ability to remain in the host country.

7. Maintaining Good Standing:
Complying with personal income tax obligations is crucial for maintaining a good standing with the host country’s tax authorities. This, in turn, can positively influence the overall relationship between the foreign employee and the host country.

8. Financial Planning:
Worldwide personal income tax declaration in Vietnam is fundamental for effective financial planning. It allows foreign employees to assess their global tax liabilities, plan for tax payments, and optimize their financial strategies to minimize tax burdens.

9. Avoidance of Legal Issues:
Non-compliance with tax regulations can lead to legal challenges, including investigations and audits. By paying attention to worldwide personal income tax declaration in Vietnam, foreign employees reduce the risk of facing legal issues related to taxation.

10. Enhanced Financial Transparency:
Accurate declaration of worldwide income contributes to financial transparency. It ensures that foreign employees are fully aware of their tax obligations and can make informed decisions regarding their financial affairs in both the host and home countries.

ANT Lawyers, law firm in Vietnam

We help clients overcome cultural barriers and achieve their strategic and financial outcomes, while ensuring the best interest rate protection, risk mitigation and regulatory compliance. ANT lawyers has lawyers in Ho Chi Minh city, Hanoi,  and Danang, and will help customers in doing business in Vietnam.

Source: https://antlawyers.vn/update/worldwide-personal-income-tax-declaration-in-vietnam.html