The booming popularity of pickleball in the U.S. and Europe is now spreading across Asia, making many foreign investors in Vietnam see a golden opportunity in the sports and recreation sector. However, to open a pickleball court in Vietnam, investors must understand the legal framework, licensing procedures, and appropriate legal strategies. Could this be the next “promising land” for foreign capital?

Investment opportunities in the sports sector – Pickleball as a rising trend

As people’s living standards improve, the demand for recreational sports activities is increasing rapidly. Among them, pickleball, a hybrid sport combining tennis, table tennis, and badminton, is growing fast—especially among young people and expatriates in Vietnam.

The rise of foreign investment projects in the sports sector has created a new wave of activity, leading to the development of sports complexes, fitness centers, golf courses, and pickleball facilities in major cities. This presents attractive opportunities but also legal challenges, particularly for investors unfamiliar with Vietnam’s regulatory environment.

Pickleball – A potential niche market in sports investment

According to international sports associations, the number of pickleball players has grown by an average of 30% annually. In Vietnam, pickleball is still new but has been rapidly embraced by the expatriate community and young entrepreneurs.

This opens up opportunities for foreign investors looking to establish pickleball facilities in Vietnam — a new, low-competition segment with strong growth potential. However, to execute such projects, investors must comply with Vietnam’s Law on Investment, Law on Physical Training and Sports, and related legal guidelines governing the sports service industry.

Legal framework for foreign investors in the sports sector

Under current regulations, sports service businesses are classified as conditional industries. Therefore, foreign investors must obtain an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) and a Sports Business License (SPC) before starting operations.

Additionally, the location of pickleball courts must be approved for land use planning, fire safety, and environmental protection. These are critical legal aspects that are often overlooked, leading to project delays or administrative penalties.

Legal process and key notes for foreign investors establishing pickleball courts in Vietnam

Implementing a sports investment project in Vietnam requires careful preparation from both legal and operational perspectives. Investors must determine the type of business entity, capital contribution ratio, and their legal rights and obligations under Vietnamese law.

Basic steps to open a pickleball court for foreign investors include:

Preparing and submitting the application for an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC);
Establishing a foreign-invested enterprise (ERC);
Obtaining a Sports Business License (SPC);
Meeting requirements for staffing, facilities, and safety standards;
Signing a legitimate land or lease agreement.

Each stage requires detailed documentation, including legalized documents, notarized translations, and proof of financial capability.

Common legal risks

Some foreign investors in Vietnam face challenges due to unclear ownership regulations, misunderstanding of business entity structures (LLC or JSC), or confusion about sub-licenses required in the sports industry.

Operating a pickleball court with foreign involvement may involve multiple business activities—venue leasing, tournament organization, training services—each requiring proper registration and licensing. Without thorough legal consultation, investors risk fines or even suspension of operations.

Legal solutions for foreign investors opening pickleball courts in Vietnam

To minimize risks and optimize investment efficiency, investors should work with legal advisory firms specializing in foreign investment, particularly those experienced in Vietnam’s sports and entertainment sectors.

Benefits of professional legal services:
A reputable corporate law firm like DEDICA Law can support investors throughout the entire process—from planning and licensing to post-investment compliance.

Key services include:

Advising on suitable investment models;
Representing clients before government authorities;
Drafting legal documents, lease agreements, and joint venture contracts;
Providing compliance consulting during operations.

This allows investors to focus on business growth while ensuring compliance and long-term stability.

DEDICA Law – A strategic partner for foreign investors in Vietnam

DEDICA Law is a professional law firm based in Ho Chi Minh City, with a team of experienced lawyers specializing in foreign investment. The firm has successfully advised investors from the U.S., South Korea, and Singapore across various industries.

With the motto “Accompanying investors to create sustainable value,” DEDICA Law not only provides legal services but also serves as a long-term strategic partner for business expansion in Vietnam.

Are you a foreign investor planning to open a pickleball court or sports project in Vietnam?
Let DEDICA Law help you build a solid legal foundation and maximize opportunities in this fast-growing sector.

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Contact us today for a free initial consultation with our professional legal team!