Apostille in Vietnam: What Will Change for Businesses and Expats.
Document legalization is one of the key issues for those starting a business or living in Vietnam. Until recently, the process was complicated and required consular legalization. However, the situation is changing: Vietnam has joined the Hague Convention of Apostille, which directly affects how documents are processed.
Let’s break down in simple terms what this means and how it impacts entrepreneurs and expats.
What Is an Apostille and Why Is It Needed
An apostille is a special certificate that confirms the authenticity of a document for use abroad.
Previously, documents had to go through a multi-step legalization process (notary → Ministry of Justice → Ministry of Foreign Affairs → consulate). An apostille simplifies this to a single step.
It's especially important for:
- company registration
- opening bank accounts
- issuing powers of attorney
- signing contracts
- validating diplomas and other documents
Vietnam Has Joined the Hague Convention of Apostille
Good news for businesses: December 31st, 2025 Vietnam has joined the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents, which means a gradual transition to a simplified system for recognizing documents.
However, there is an important nuance: in practice, the apostille system in Vietnam is being implemented step by step, and The new law will come into force on September 11, 2026..
What this means:
- consular legalization is still in effect
- apostille will be introduced after all internal procedures are completed
- the timeline depends on the implementation of local legislation
How Documents Are Currently Processed in Vietnam
At present, the following methods are used for documents intended for use abroad or within Vietnam:
1. Consular Legalization
This is the standard procedure, which includes:
- notarization
- certification by government authorities
- legalization through a consulate
This process is longer and more expensive but remains the primary method for now.
2. Notarized Power of Attorney in Vietnam
A separate and important tool is a notarized power of attorney in Vietnam. It applies to countries those have legal assistance agreements with Vietnam.
This means that:
- powers of attorney issued by a local notary
- may be recognized without additional legalization
- can be used for representation, transactions, and business management
This is currently one of the most convenient and fastest solutions.
What Will Change After Apostille Implementation
Once the system is fully operational, businesses and expats will benefit from:
- reduced document processing time
- lower legalization costs
- simplified international document circulation
- faster company setup and cooperation with foreign partners
In practice, apostille in Vietnam will become the standard, as it already is in most countries.
Conclusion: What to Consider Now
If you are planning to work in Vietnam or already running a business here:
- keep in mind that the apostille system is not fully implemented yet
- use existing mechanisms (legalization and powers of attorney)
- plan your document processing in advance
Assistance with Document Processing in Vietnam
Our company provides full support for document processing in Vietnam.
We can help you:
- issue notarized powers of attorney in Vietnam in accordance with the legal assistance agreements
- prepare documents for business operations and representation
We also monitor legal updates.
Once the apostille system is fully implemented, we will offer apostille services in Vietnam.
If you need fast and accurate document processing contact us, and we will find the best solution for your needs.
You can book a consultation by following the link below.
