Bar Business Licensing Requirements: How to Legally Open a Bar in Vietnam

1. What Is Bar Business?

Running a bar involves providing beverage and entertainment services in an environment characterized by music and lighting. This is a conditional business line in Vietnam, subject to strict legal regulations to ensure public order, security, and social hygiene.

2. Latest Bar Business Requirements in Vietnam

According to current regulations, individuals or organizations wishing to legally open a bar must meet the following conditions:

2.1. Business Registration Requirements

• You must register under the correct business line, specifically "bar service."

• Obtain a valid Enterprise Registration Certificate or Household Business Certificate.

2.2. Security and Order Requirements

• Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility for Security and Order issued by the police authority.

• The person in charge of the business must not have any criminal record related to drugs, gambling, prostitution, or similar offenses.

2.3. Fire Prevention and Fighting (FPF) Requirements

• The business premises must pass a fire safety inspection and receive a written certificate of compliance.

• Must be fully equipped with fire safety systems, emergency exits, warning signs, etc.

2.4. Environmental Protection Requirements

• Commit not to generate noise levels exceeding the legal threshold.

• Install adequate wastewater and waste treatment systems to meet environmental standards.

3. Procedures to Obtain a Bar Business License

To legally operate a bar, businesses must go through the following steps:

Step 1: Register a Household Business or Company

Submit a business registration application to the Business Registration Office under the Department of Planning and Investment.

Step 2: Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility for Security and Order

The application dossier typically includes:

• Application form for the certificate;

• Notarized copy of the business registration certificate;

• Personal background and judicial record of the legal representative;

• Documents proving compliance with facility requirements.

Submit to the Division of Administrative Management on Social Order (Police Department).

Step 3: Fire Safety Registration

Contact the local Fire Prevention and Fighting Police Department to arrange for an inspection and obtain a certificate of compliance.

Step 4: Fulfill Tax Obligations and Public Disclosure of Business Information

• Open a bank account and register for a digital signature;

• Submit the business license tax declaration, register for invoices, etc.

4. Important Notes When Opening a Bar

• Bars must not operate after midnight unless permitted by local authorities;

• It is strictly forbidden to organize or allow any illegal activities such as drug use or prostitution;

• Maintain public order and security in the vicinity of the bar.

5. Bar Business Licensing Support Services

If you're having trouble preparing the required documents or are unclear about the legal procedures, contact Dedica Law Firm. We offer comprehensive consulting and support services for obtaining bar business licenses, with a commitment to:

• Accurate legal advice on all applicable requirements;

• Full support in preparing a compliant and complete application dossier;

• Representing clients in submitting documents and working with government agencies.

Contact DEDICA Law Firm today for expert legal advice!

• Phone: (+84) 39 969 0012 (We are available on WhatsApp, WeChat and Zalo)

• Head Office: 144 Vo Van Tan Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Hours: Monday–Friday (8:30 am – 6:00 pm)

Call us now or leave us a message to get advice. Initial consultation is free of charge.