Vietnam’s growing economy and integration into global trade have made trademark protection an essential step for foreign businesses seeking to enter the Vietnamese market. Trademark registration in Vietnam is governed by the Law on Intellectual Property (as amended in 2022) and administered by the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam (IP Vietnam). This guide provides an overview of the registration process specifically for foreign applicants.
1. Local Representation Requirement
Foreign applicants are required to file trademark applications through a licensed industrial property representative (IP agent) based in Vietnam. Direct filing by foreign entities is not permitted under Vietnamese law. The local agent will prepare and submit the application, manage communication with IP Vietnam, and handle all procedural matters.
2. Required Documents
To file a trademark application in Vietnam, the following documents are required:
• Power of Attorney (signed by the applicant; notarization is not mandatory).
• Trademark specimen (word mark or logo, in .jpg or .png format).
• List of goods/services classified under the Nice Classification.
• Full name, address, and nationality (or incorporation details) of the applicant.
3. Filing Procedure
Applications can be filed either in person or online by the appointed IP representative at the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam (IP Vietnam), headquartered at 386 Nguyen Trai Street, Hanoi. Upon submission, the application receives an official filing number and date, which establishes the priority right.
4. Examination and Publication
The registration process typically takes 12–18 months and includes the following stages:
• Formality Examination (1–2 months): Ensures that the application meets all administrative requirements.
• Publication (within 2 months): Accepted applications are published in the Official Gazette.
• Substantive Examination (9–12 months): Evaluates distinctiveness and checks for conflicts with existing marks.
5. Grant of Protection
If the application satisfies all legal requirements, IP Vietnam issues a Certificate of Trademark Registration. The protection is valid for 10 years from the filing date and can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years. Renewal requests must be submitted within six months before expiry, with a grace period available upon payment of a late fee.
6. Enforcement and Customs Recordal
Trademark owners can enforce their rights through administrative, civil, or criminal measures. They may also record their registered marks with Vietnamese Customs to prevent counterfeit goods from being imported or exported.
Summary Table
| Step | Responsibility | Description |
| 1 | Local IP Agent | Files the application and manages correspondence |
| 2 | Applicant | Provides Power of Attorney and required documents |
| 3 | IP Vietnam | Conducts examination and issues registration certificate |
| 4 | Owner | Maintains and renews the trademark every 10 years |
Trademark registration in Vietnam ensures legal protection, strengthens brand reputation, and supports long-term business operations in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic markets.
