Choosing business line codes in Vietnam
1. How codes are used
When you register a company in Vietnam, each activity in your application must be listed with a 4-digit VSIC code. You cannot simply write "selling clothes": a fashion shop would register code 4771 (retail sale of clothing, footwear and leather goods in specialised stores), optionally with a detail line such as "Detail: retail of children's clothing".
Conditional business lines (for example education, travel services or pharmacies) also need a sub-licence, minimum capital or professional certificates before you start operating.
2. The main business line
Each company chooses exactly one main business line, normally the activity expected to bring the most revenue. All other lines are secondary and can be added or removed later by filing an amendment with the business registration office.
3. For foreign investors
- Your codes should match the activities in your Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) and Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC).
- Some lines are restricted for foreign ownership or need specific approval, so check market access conditions before choosing codes.
- Common codes for foreign-owned startups include 6201 (software), 7020 (management consultancy), 7310 (advertising) and 4791 (online retail).
Frequently asked questions
What is a business line code in Vietnam?
It is the 4-digit code from the Vietnam Standard Industrial Classification (VSIC) that every company must list for each business activity when it registers. You may add a free-text "detail" line under a code to describe your activity more precisely.
How many business lines can a company register?
There is no legal limit. A company can register as many lines as it needs, as long as none of them is prohibited. Exactly one must be marked as the main business line.
Do foreign-invested companies use the same codes?
Yes, but foreign investors must also check market access conditions for each line under Vietnam's WTO commitments and investment law. Some activities are restricted or require a joint venture, so the codes must match your investment registration certificate (IRC).
Can I search in Vietnamese?
Yes. Search works with English or Vietnamese keywords (with or without accents) and with code numbers such as 6201.