The food and beverage sector has specific licensing requirements that trip up many first-time foreign operators. This guide covers every approval you'll need.
Vietnam's food and beverage sector is one of the most popular destinations for foreign entrepreneurs, but it carries a heavier licensing burden than most business lines.
Business Registration
F&B operations fall under the conditional investment sector for foreign investors. The IRC/ERC process follows the standard path, but the investment registration must specify food service (CPC 642) as a business line.
Food Safety Certificate
Before opening, the premises must pass a food safety inspection by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health (or Food Safety Management Board for large-scale operations). The inspection covers kitchen layout, ventilation, refrigeration, water source documentation, and staff hygiene certificates.
Fire Prevention Certificate
The District Police Fire Prevention Department must inspect and certify the premises before any restaurant can operate. This is among the most time-consuming approvals — allow 4–6 weeks and ensure your interior fit-out complies with the relevant standards from the start.
Alcohol Licence
Selling alcohol requires a separate retail licence from the Department of Industry and Trade. Applications require evidence of compliant storage facilities and a commitment to not selling to minors.
Timeline and Costs
A realistic timeline from signing your lease to opening day is 4–6 months if you engage experienced consultants. Legal and licensing fees typically range from 75–200 million VND for a straightforward single-location restaurant. Fit-out costs are separate and highly variable.
