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Trademark Registration in Vietnam
Protecting your company name, logo, or brand is essential to prevent unauthorized use or infringement. Registering your trademark with the National Office of Intellectual Property of Vietnam (NOIP) is the most effective way to safeguard these rights.
Quick Facts:
- Validity: 10 years, renewable
- Process Duration: Approx. 12–15 months
- Foreign Applicants: Must use a local representative
- Online Registration: Available
- Governing Body: National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP)
✨ Who can apply for trademark registration in Vietnam?
Trademark registration in Vietnam is open to all individuals and businesses—regardless of whether they are Vietnamese or foreign investors. Anyone looking to set up company in Vietnam or simply protect their brand can apply for a trademark, provided the mark meets Vietnamese and international legal standards.
Applicants must submit the necessary documents to the National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP) to obtain the official trademark registration certificate. Vietnam applies the internationally recognized NICE classification system for goods and services, making it straightforward to register various types of trademarks.
With trademark registration in Vietnam 2025 aligned with global agreements, both local and foreign businesses find Vietnam an attractive destination for trademark protection.
For step-by-step support in securing your trademark and boosting your brand’s value when setting up a company in Vietnam, connect with our experienced company formation agents in Vietnam.
⚖️ Legislation on trademark registration in Vietnam
Trademark registration in Vietnam is governed by a comprehensive legal framework, primarily under the Law on Intellectual Property. This law, introduced in 2005 and updated several times—with the latest version effective from January 1, 2020—sets out the specific requirements for registering a trademark. Key legal documents include:
- Law No. 50/2005 on Intellectual Property (amended in 2009)
- Decree No. 103/2006 on trademark registration criteria
- Decree No. 99/2013 on intellectual property rights enforcement
- Additional sector-specific regulations, such as the 2016 Law on Pharmacy for pharmaceutical trademarks.
Vietnam’s modern intellectual property laws make the country one of the most attractive destinations in Asia for brand protection and trademark registration in 2025.
💡 If you are looking to set up company in Vietnam and need clear guidance on trademark compliance, our team of experts is ready to assist you throughout the process.
🗂️ The classification of trademarks in Vietnam in 2025
When applying for trademark registration in Vietnam, it is essential to understand the official classification system used by the National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP). Vietnam applies the internationally recognized NICE classification, which is currently divided into 45 classes. Of these, 34 classes are dedicated to goods, and the remaining 11 classes cover services. This system provides a standardized way to identify and protect different types of goods and services under your trademark.
🎯 Choosing the correct classes is a crucial step in the trademark registration in Vietnam process. The scope of protection for your trademark will depend on the specific classes you select when filing your application.
For example, if your business plans to operate in multiple sectors—such as manufacturing, retail, and technology—you may need to register your trademark across several classes to ensure full legal protection.
Another important consideration is that the trademark registration fee in Vietnam is calculated based on the number of classes included in your application. The more classes you choose, the higher the total fee will be. However, registering your trademark in multiple classes is often recommended for businesses that intend to diversify their operations or expand into new markets in the future.
Applicants are encouraged to review the full NICE classification list and carefully determine which classes best represent their products and services. Our experts can provide personalized advice on how to select the right classes for your trademark, helping you avoid unnecessary costs and maximize the scope of your trademark protection.
Additionally, if you are planning to set up company in Vietnam, understanding the trademark classification system is essential not only for brand protection but also for meeting local compliance requirements. Companies that receive an enterprise registration certificate are required to establish and maintain an accounting system according to Vietnamese Accounting Standards and the Vietnamese Accounting System for Enterprises. This ensures that all aspects of your business—from intellectual property to accounting—are aligned with current laws and best practices.
🤝 If you need support with trademark registration in Vietnam, class selection, or accounting compliance, our team is ready to assist you throughout every stage of your business development.
📝 Trademark registration requirements in Vietnam
For any business or individual looking to secure their brand through trademark registration in Vietnam, it is essential to understand and meet the key requirements set by local regulations. Before submitting a trademark application, you must ensure that your trademark is truly unique and capable of distinguishing your goods or services from those offered by other parties in the marketplace.
Vietnamese law allows for a wide range of elements to be registered as trademarks. Acceptable forms include:
- Letters (including stylized fonts or initials)
- Numbers
- Symbols or graphic signs
- Distinctive colors
- Words and phrases
Applicants may also combine these elements to create a more distinctive mark. The National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP) in Vietnam accepts any combination that results in a unique and recognizable identifier for your business.
🗂️ Another important aspect is the classification of trademarks. Trademark registration in Vietnam follows both single-class and multi-class filing options.
This means you can register your trademark for one class of goods or services, or you can opt for multiple classes if your business operates in various sectors. Choosing the right classification ensures your trademark is properly protected across all relevant product lines or service categories.
Meeting these requirements is crucial for both foreign investors aiming to set up company in Vietnam and local entrepreneurs seeking brand protection. Properly registered trademarks enhance business credibility, prevent infringement, and lay a strong foundation for future growth—whether operating domestically or expanding into international markets.
📞 For more information on trademark requirements in Vietnam or support with your trademark registration process, our consultants are available to guide you every step of the way.
🔍 Searching a trademark before filing for an application
Searching a trademark before filing for an application is a crucial step in the process of trademark registration in Vietnam. With the rising number of applications, conducting a trademark search online with the Intellectual Property Office helps you avoid conflicts and delays.
✅ Our agents can assist you in verifying the availability of your trademark, ensuring a smooth registration process.
If you need support to register a trademark in Vietnam or to set up company in Vietnam, our experienced consultants are ready to help you at every stage.
💻 Methods of applying for trademark registration in Vietnam in 2025
When it comes to trademark registration in Vietnam, applicants now have two flexible options to submit their trademark application: filing documents in paper format directly at the National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP), or completing the entire process online. In recent years, online registration has become the preferred choice thanks to its convenience, speed, and the ability to avoid in-person visits to government offices.
Regardless of the method chosen, the required documents remain the same and must include details such as the trademark sample, applicant information, list of goods or services, and, if necessary, a power of attorney. Many businesses and individuals who do not have time to handle all the administrative work themselves choose to authorize a proxy, often a professional IP agent or company formation specialist, to act on their behalf.
⚡ The possibility of online submission makes it easier and faster for both local and foreign investors to register a trademark in Vietnam, with some applications being processed in as little as one month (not including the time for availability checks and document preparation).
This streamlined process is particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs looking to set up company in Vietnam or expand their business presence, as it allows them to protect their brands and assets efficiently right from the start.
Trademark registration is not limited to company names; it also covers logos, domain names, and product names—key assets in a highly competitive market. For online businesses, protecting a domain name as a trademark has become increasingly important, given the growing role of e-commerce and digital branding.
Our experienced team is ready to assist you with every step of trademark registration in Vietnam, from verifying trademark availability to preparing documents, submitting applications, and monitoring status updates. Whether you are a local entrepreneur or a foreign company planning to establish your brand in Vietnam, we offer end-to-end support to ensure your intellectual property is fully protected under Vietnamese law.
⚙️ The procedure for registering a trademark in Vietnam
Both local and foreign companies or individuals can register a trademark in Vietnam by following this official procedure:
- Filing the trademark registration documents: Submit your application with all required information to the National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP).
- Examination by NOIP: The authorities review your trademark to ensure it meets all legal requirements in Vietnam.
- Publication in the Official Gazette: Your trademark is published publicly, allowing for any potential objections or oppositions.
- Substantive examination: NOIP conducts a thorough review before granting final approval for your trademark registration.
When preparing for trademark registration in Vietnam, applicants must submit the following documents to the National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP):
- The name of the applicant (individual or company looking to register a trademark in Vietnam)
- A clear description of the trademark;
- Details of the goods or services covered by the trademark application
- Five samples (prints) of the trademark design
- A power of attorney, if appointing a representative to handle the registration process
📄 Having a complete and accurate set of documents ensures a smooth process, whether you are protecting your brand or planning to set up company in Vietnam.
For detailed guidance on preparing your trademark registration file, contact our expert team.
✅ Examination of a trademark before registration in Vietnam
Before a trademark registration in Vietnam is officially granted, the National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP) conducts a thorough two-stage examination process.
🔍 The first stage, known as the formal examination, checks whether your trademark application is complete, complies with all legal requirements, and contains all necessary documentation.
If everything is in order, the NOIP will issue a Notice of Acceptance, allowing the application to proceed to the next step.
The second stage is the substantive examination, during which the trademark is published in the Official Gazette. This period allows third parties to file any oppositions or objections if they believe their rights may be infringed. The substantive examination is typically the most time-consuming phase, as the NOIP carefully reviews the trademark for conflicts and compliance. Once this process is complete and no valid objections remain, the applicant will receive the official trademark registration certificate.
⚠️ Given the complexity and length of the process, businesses and individuals planning to register a trademark in Vietnam are strongly encouraged to seek professional assistance.
Expert support ensures your application is properly prepared and increases the likelihood of securing timely approval from Vietnamese authorities.
🌎 Foreigners registering trademarks in Vietnam
Foreign individuals and companies can fully participate in trademark registration in Vietnam. The process for foreigners to register a trademark in Vietnam is straightforward and follows the same regulations and document requirements as for Vietnamese applicants.
Local Representation Required:
However, foreign applicants must appoint a local representative—either an individual or a licensed organization—to handle the trademark application and communications with the National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP). All documents should be translated into Vietnamese and authenticated as required by law.
If you already hold a registered trademark in your home country, it is possible to seek recognition of your trademark in Vietnam by submitting the necessary paperwork through a local representative. Granting power of attorney to a trusted agent allows foreign investors to efficiently navigate the trademark application process without being physically present.
Vietnam is known for having one of the fastest trademark registration procedures in Asia, making it an ideal destination for foreign businesses seeking brand protection when setting up operations or opening a branch office.
➡️ For the most seamless experience, foreign investors are encouraged to work with experienced consultants to ensure their trademark registration in Vietnam is completed smoothly and in compliance with all legal requirements.
🔄 Renewal of a trademark registration certificate in Vietnam
A registered trademark in Vietnam is valid for 10 years and can be renewed for additional 10-year periods without limitation on the number of renewals.
📅 To maintain continuous protection, trademark owners should submit the renewal application at least 6 months before the expiry date, although late renewal is permitted up to 6 months after expiration.
However, it’s crucial to actively use the trademark—if it remains unused for more than 5 consecutive years, third parties may file for its cancellation.
To avoid losing trademark rights and ensure ongoing protection, businesses and individuals are encouraged to utilize professional trademark renewal services in Vietnam. This is especially important for those who have successfully used their marks and want to safeguard them for long-term brand value. Our team also supports clients seeking international recognition of their Vietnamese trademarks.
⏳ Trademark Registration Timeline in Vietnam
The process for trademark registration in Vietnam involves several key stages:
- Formal examination of the application, usually completed within one month.
- Substantive examination and publication in the Official Gazette, typically lasting from month 3 to month 9.
- Issuance of the registration certificate by the NOIP within 10 days after all formalities are completed.
The overall registration process generally takes between 12 and 15 months.
Valid for a Decade:
Each Vietnamese trademark is valid for 10 years and can be renewed as needed.
✈️ International trademark registration in Vietnam
Businesses and individuals seeking international trademark registration in Vietnam can take advantage of the Madrid System, which allows applicants to file for global protection efficiently. Under this system, applications can be submitted in English or French through the National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP). After reviewing and accepting the registration documents and fees, the NOIP forwards the application to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) for further processing. Typically, the international registration process takes about 30 days to complete.
🌍 Vietnam is a leading market for intellectual property protection. The country currently ranks second in Southeast Asia and eighth in Asia for trademark application volume.
- With over 87,000 trademark applications filed recently
- Including more than 4,800 from foreign applicants.
If you are looking to register a trademark in Vietnam for international protection or need step-by-step guidance on the trademark registration in Vietnam process in 2025, our expert team is here to support you. We can also assist with every aspect of company registration in Vietnam, ensuring your business and intellectual property are fully protected.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible to register a trademark in Vietnam?
Both individuals and legal entities, regardless of nationality, can apply for trademark registration in Vietnam, provided their mark complies with Vietnamese and international legal requirements.
2. What is the validity period of a registered trademark in Vietnam and how can it be renewed?
A registered trademark in Vietnam is valid for 10 years from the filing date. It can be renewed indefinitely in 10-year increments, with the renewal application submitted 6 months before expiry or within a 6-month grace period after expiration.
3. What are the minimum filing requirements for a trademark application in Vietnam?
The required documents include a sample of the trademark, applicant’s details, a list of goods/services, and a Power of Attorney (POA). For foreign applicants, submission through a local representative is mandatory.
4. Can a company name or domain name be registered as a trademark in Vietnam?
Yes, it is possible to register a company name or domain name as a trademark, provided the mark meets distinctiveness requirements and is not confusingly similar to existing registrations.
5. What is the estimated timeline for the trademark registration process in Vietnam?
The process typically takes 12–15 months, including formal and substantive examination. After acceptance, the certificate of registration is usually issued within approximately 10 days.
6. Is online trademark registration available in Vietnam?
Yes, applicants can submit trademark registration documents online through the National Office of Intellectual Property’s (NOIP) portal, streamlining the procedure for both local and international applicants.
7. What are the main grounds for refusal or revocation of a trademark in Vietnam?
A trademark may be refused if it lacks distinctiveness, conflicts with earlier marks, or violates public order/morality. It can be revoked if not used for 5 consecutive years, is registered in bad faith, or becomes generic.
