Business conditions for interior design services (architecture) for Foreign Investor

Update day: May 25 , 2023

Business conditions for interior design services (architecture) for Foreign Investor

In an age of globalization and continuous technological development, design services play an important role in creating attractive products and experiences for Clients. In particular, Vietnam is becoming an attractive destination for foreign investors in this field, thanks to the rapid development of the economy and the increasing demand for professional design services.

With constant innovation and creativity, foreign investors have brought unique and pioneering values in the field of design in Vietnam. However, in order to operate a design services business for foreign investors in this country, it is necessary to comply with some conditions and regulations of the law.

This article will explore the conditions for design services bussiness for foreign investor in Vietnam. We will research about regulations related to business registration, licenses to operate, and requirements for professional, technical and enterprise culture. Besides, we will also explore the benefits and opportunities that the design services business bring to foreign investor in Vietnam.

1. Market access conditions

Business lines: Architectural Services (Interior Design) as Committed in the WTO Commitments Schedule

No Profession VSIC CPC Market access conditions License
1. Architectural Services 7110 8671 There are no restrictions on the form of investment and capital contribution ratios, except that the foreign enterprise shall be a legal entity of a WTO member. Practicing architectural certification for individuals responsible for professional expertise.
2. Special Design Services

Details: Interior Design Services

7410 87907 Not committed yet

2. Business conditions in accordance with Vietnamese Law

Vietnamese law sets specific conditions for each form of architectural services provision in Vietnam, including individual practice by foreign investor and the establishment of foreign-invested enterprise operating in the field of architecture, specifically:

2.1 Conditions for foreign individual to practice architecture in Vietnam

  • Having an architectural practicing prof in Vietnam or having a valid architectural practicing certificate issued by a competent foreign agency or organization and recognized and converted by Vietnam;
  • Complying with the laws of Vietnam and the Code of Practicing Conduct of practicing architects in Vietnam.

Foreign individual who has an architectural practicing certificate issued in a foreign agency shall perform an additional step of recognition and conversion before they can practice architecture in Vietnam. Dossier to perform the step of recognition – conversion of practice certificates are as follows:

  • An application for recognition and conversion of a practice certificate, made according to the form specified in Appendix III to this Decree, with 02 portrait pictures (4×6 cm) of the applicant on a white background which was taken within the last 06 months.
  • A copy of the training degree or practicing certificate issued by a foreign agency or organization, which shall be translated into Vietnamese and notarized or certified in accordance with Vietnam’s law.
  • A certified true copy or file containing color photo taken from the original or a copy presented together with its original for comparison of the lawful document on residence or work permit issued by a Vietnam’s competent authority as prescribed.

Foreign individual sends 01 dossier for recognition and conversion of practice certificates online or by post or directly at the agency competent to issue practice certificates. Application processing time: 10 working days.

2.2 Operating condition and form of enterprise providing architectural services in Vietnam

  • Be established in accordance with the regulations of the law (establishment of foreign-invested enterprise, see more at: “5 steps investors need to set up a company in Vietnam”
  • Having an individual who is responsible for the architectural profession or leading architectural design with a practicing certificate in architecture.
  • Notifying the above-mentioned information to the specialized architectural agency under the Provincial People’s Committee of the province where the architectural practice organization has its headquarters.

Regarding the procedure for establishing a foreign enterprise in Vietnam, foreign investor can refer to the article: “Notes for conducting business operation in Vietnam”

By complying with business conditions and legal regulations, foreign investors can take advantage of the opportunities and advantages of the Vietnamese market to successfully develop in the field of design services. Registering to practice, establishing a foreign-invested enterprise, and complying with professional, technical and cultural requirements are important steps in building a strong foundation for business operation in Vietnam.

Time of writing: May 18, 2023

The article contains general information that is of reference value, in case you want to receive legal opinions related to the issues that you are having trouble with, please contact our lawyer at info@cdlaf.vn

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