1. Importance of Checking Company Name Availability
Before registering a company in Vietnam, business name lookup is the first important step. A name that is identical or too similar to another business can lead to legal risks, rejection of registration applications or trademark disputes later.
Checking the name also helps businesses protect their brand from the beginning, creating a professional impression with customers and partners. This is especially important for startups and companies planning to expand their market.
2. Understanding Vietnam’s Business Name Rules
When choosing a company name in Vietnam, businesses must comply with the following legal requirements:
- Name structure: must include the business type + a distinct proper name. (Based on ArtHow to Check Company Name Availability in Vietnam Before Registrationicle 37, Law on Enterprises 2020)
- Prohibited or confusing words: the name must not duplicate or cause confusion with existing businesses, nor contain words related to state agencies or political organizations. (Based on Articles 38 & 39, Law on Enterprises 2020)
- Language & characters: Vietnamese, foreign languages using Latin letters, numbers, and symbols are permitted. (Based on Article 37(3), Law on Enterprises 2020)
- Consistency with business lines: the name must not create misunderstanding regarding the registered business field. (Specified in Article 38, Law on Enterprises 2020)
Following these regulations increases the likelihood of name approval on the first submission.
3. Online Tools and Databases for Name Lookup
Vietnam provides several official online systems that help business name lookup availability and avoid conflicts before registration.
3.1 National Business Registration Portal
The National Business Registration Portal https://dangkykinhdoanh.gov.vn/vn/Pages/Trangchu.aspx is the primary and most authoritative tool for business name lookup in Vietnam. It offers:
- Nationwide database access with real-time updates of all registered business names.
- Detailed legal information, including tax code, business status, and registered address.
- Name similarity filtering, helping identify identical or confusing names in accordance with the Law on Enterprises 2020.
- Direct data connection with provincial Departments of Planning and Investment (DPI), ensuring accuracy and consistency.
Using this portal helps businesses ensure name uniqueness, reduce the risk of rejection, and streamline registration procedures.
3.2 IP Vietnam Trademark Database
Link: https://www.ipvietnam.gov.vn/en_US/web/english/trademarks
- Allows checking existing or pending trademarks related to names, brand identities, or logos.
- Prevents conflicts between company names and protected intellectual property.
- Essential for businesses requiring strong brand protection.
3.3 International Trademark Databases (WIPO Global Brand Database)
Link: https://branddb.wipo.int/en/similarname
- Supports searches for potential international naming conflicts, especially for brands planning cross-border operations.
- Useful when the proposed company name is in a foreign language or intended for global use.
4. Tips to Ensure Your Chosen Name Complies
To get your business name approved and avoid the risk of rejection, entrepreneurs need to pay attention to some important points:
1. Choose a name that is easy to recognize and remember:
- The name should be short, clear and reflect the business field.
- Avoid naming that is too general and difficult to distinguish from other businesses.
2. Check for duplication or similarity with registered trademarks:
- Use the National Information Portal and trademark protection databases to look up.
- Avoid names that are confusing or too similar to large businesses, to limit legal risks and future disputes.
3. Comply with legal regulations on business names:
- Including business types (LLC, Joint Stock Company, Private Enterprise).
- Use valid characters (Latin letters, numbers, special characters as prescribed).
- Do not use prohibited, confusing or offensive words.
4. Consider Vietnamese and foreign language names:
- If your business plans to operate internationally, you should also check the English or other language versions to avoid duplication in the international market.
Following these tips increases the likelihood of your application being approved the first time and protects your brand in the long term, making it easier for your business to start up.
5. How Vina TPT Supports Company Name Registration
Starting a business in Vietnam can be complicated, especially when it is the first time for an entrepreneur to approach the market. Working with Vina TPT helps reduce legal pressure and optimize time.
Ensure a legal and prominent business name in the Vietnamese market with comprehensive support from Vina TPT.
