Conditions to Know Before Establishing a Foreign-Invested Media and Advertising Company in Vietnam
Establishing a media and advertising company in Vietnam has always been a hot topic for foreign investors. Not only because of the strong market growth potential, but also because this sector is subject to stricter legal requirements compared to other industries. If you are an FDI investor looking into opening a media company in Vietnam, this article will provide you with a comprehensive overview to enter the market with the best preparation.
Basic Legal Conditions for Foreign Investors
Investment Registration under the 2020 Investment Law: All foreign investors must apply for an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) before establishing a company. This step helps authorities manage the investment purpose, business scope, capital ratio, and Vietnamese partners (if any).
Restricted Business Scope: Advertising is a conditional business line under the 2012 Law on Advertising. While Vietnam allows FDI participation, foreign ownership is limited in areas like television, newspapers, and publishing. Foreign investors are mainly permitted to conduct regular commercial advertising such as digital ads, social media marketing, event organization, exhibitions, etc.
Requirement of Vietnamese Partners: In some cases, foreign investors must cooperate with local companies that already hold the necessary licenses. Joint ventures are encouraged and increase the chance of approval.
Charter Capital and Financial Capacity: Although no minimum capital is set by law, authorities review financial capacity. Large-scale projects with low capital may be denied. Foreign corporate investors must also provide audited financial statements to prove legitimacy and capacity.
Procedure to Establish an FDI Media and Advertising Company
Apply for an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC).
Establish an enterprise with FDI capital (LLC or JSC).
Obtain specialized licenses for specific activities (e.g., outdoor advertising, events, broadcasting-related ads).
Complete post-establishment steps: company seal, tax registration, bank account, labor registration, office lease, etc.
Special Notes for Digital Media & Advertising
FDI investors often choose digital platforms (Facebook, Google, TikTok, etc.). Despite being more open, these activities still require compliance with regulations on online advertising licenses, copyright, celebrity image use, promotional games, and registration of ad content.
DEDICA – Your Legal Partner in Vietnam
With extensive experience in legal consulting for FDI businesses, DEDICA is a strategic partner for many foreign companies in marketing, agency, and digital media. We provide full-service legal support from planning, licensing, compliance to post-establishment management.
📞 Hotline: (+84) 39 969 0012
🏢 Head Office: 144 Vo Van Tan, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, HCMC
🕒 Working Hours: Mon–Fri (8:30 – 18:00)
