Vietnam is set to implement significant regulatory updates in April 2026, focusing on fire safety, banking, foreign investment, immigration, and administrative procedures. Key changes include stricter penalties for fire safety violations, enhanced identity requirements for payment accounts, and clearer deportation procedures for foreign nationals. The updates aim to improve compliance, transparency, and digital governance, while also providing incentives for foreign direct investment in technology transfer projects. Businesses must prepare for increased scrutiny and ensure compliance with the new regulations to avoid administrative sanctions.
Vietnam has introduced a series of regulatory updates effective April 2026, covering fire safety compliance, banking practices, foreign investment incentives, immigration enforcement, and administrative procedures. These changes signal a broader push toward stricter compliance, enhanced transparency, and digital governance. Under Decree 69/2026/ND-CP, which amends Decree 106/2025/ND-CP on fire prevention and firefighting (FPF), authorities have introduced higher penalties targeting indoor electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Fines of VND 40–50 million (approximately US$2,000) apply to violations such as: Businesses operating residential-commercial complexes, parking facilities, or EV infrastructure should review fire safety systems and compliance protocols ahead of enforcement from April 20, 2026. Circular 30/2025/TT-NHNN issued by the State Bank of Vietnam introduces stricter identity requirements for payment accounts. This measure strengthens financial transparency and anti-fraud controls. Businesses, particularly those managing multiple accounts or third-party payment flows, should ensure account information is aligned with legal documentation. p EXPLORE IN-DEPTH INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS GUIDES. Explore vital economic, geographic, and regulatory insights for business investors, managers, or expats to navigate Vietnam’s business landscape. Our Online Business Guides offer explainer articles, news, useful tools, and videos from on-the-ground advisors who contribute to the Doing Business in Vietnam knowledge. Start exploring Vietnam has introduced enhanced incentives under the amended Law on Technology Transfer (effective April 1, 2026), targeting foreign direct investment (FDI) projects that contribute to domestic technological capacity. To qualify, projects must involve: The policy reinforces Vietnam’s strategy to move up the value chain. Foreign investors integrating technology transfer into their market entry or expansion plans may benefit from preferential treatment. Decree 59/2026/ND-CP establishes clearer procedures for the deportation of foreign nationals violating Vietnamese law. Foreign individuals and employers should be aware of enhanced procedural clarity and enforcement mechanisms. Compliance with local regulations remains critical to avoid administrative sanctions. Decree 61/2026/ND-CP formalizes mechanisms for collecting and using data provided by individuals and organizations to detect administrative violations. This framework supports Vietnam’s shift toward digital governance and public participation in enforcement. Businesses should anticipate increased scrutiny, particularly in areas such as traffic, environmental compliance, and public safety. The April 2026 regulatory updates reflect Vietnam’s continued emphasis on compliance enforcement, digitalization, and sustainable development. For businesses, the changes underscore the importance of proactive compliance management, particularly in fire safety, financial transparency, and operational governance, while also presenting new opportunities in technology-driven investment sectors. Setting up a business in Vietnam requires navigating company registration, local approvals, and work permit processes. We help FDI companies by preparing and submitting documentation, coordinating with authorities, and ensuring compliance, so they can start operations smoothly and focus on growth. Senior Manager request a consultation at Or About Us Vietnam Briefing is one of five regional publications under the Asia Briefing brand. It is supported by Dezan Shira & Associates , a pan-Asia, multi-disciplinary professional services firm that assists foreign investors throughout Asia, including through offices in Hanoi , Ho Chi Minh City , and Da Nang in Vietnam. Dezan Shira & Associates also maintains offices or has alliance partners assisting foreign investors in China , Hong Kong SAR , Indonesia , Singapore , Malaysia , Mongolia , Dubai (UAE) , Japan , South Korea , Nepal , The Philippines , Sri Lanka , Thailand , Italy , Germany , Bangladesh , Australia , United States , and United Kingdom and Ireland . For a complimentary subscription to Vietnam Briefing’s content products, please click here . For support with establishing a business in Vietnam or for assistance in analyzing and entering markets, please contact the firm at vietnam@dezshira.com or visit us at www.dezshira.com