What Documents Are Needed to Register a Trademark in Vietnam

Filing a trademark in Vietnam requires a complete dossier submitted to the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam (IP Vietnam). A well-prepared application reduces the risk of formality objections and helps the examination proceed smoothly. This article summarises the documents typically required.

Core documents in the dossier

Under the Law on Intellectual Property, a standard trademark application generally includes the following:

A completed application (declaration) form in the prescribed format.
A clear specimen (sample) of the mark as it will be used.
A list of the goods and/or services classified under the Nice Classification.
Documents evidencing the right to file, where the applicant relies on rights transferred from another party.
Proof of payment of the applicable official fees.

Additional documents in specific cases

Depending on who is filing and the nature of the mark, further documents may be needed:

A power of attorney if the applicant appoints an IP representative to act on its behalf.
Priority documents where the applicant claims priority from an earlier application filed abroad.
Regulations on use for collective marks or certification marks, describing who may use the mark and on what conditions.
Consent or authorisation documents where the mark contains elements requiring permission.

Practical points for foreign applicants

Foreign individuals and companies without a residence or establishment in Vietnam must file through a licensed IP representative. Vietnam operates on a first-to-file basis, so preparing the dossier promptly and accurately is important. Documents in a foreign language may need to be accompanied by a Vietnamese translation.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to submit proof of use when filing?

No. Vietnam does not require proof of use at the filing stage or at any later stage — there is no use requirement to file or maintain a registration.

Can I amend the list of goods and services after filing?

You may narrow the list after filing, but you generally cannot broaden it, so it is best to define the scope carefully at the outset.

Is notarisation of the power of attorney required?

A simple signed power of attorney is usually sufficient, and legalisation is generally not required, though requirements can vary with the applicant's circumstances.

How LTV Law helps

LTV Law prepares and reviews trademark dossiers, advises on classification, and files and monitors applications before IP Vietnam on behalf of local and foreign clients — contact our team.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.