Looking to open a coffee shop in Vietnam? You need business registration, food-safety approval, and fire-safety compliance in place before serving your first cup. Pick your vehicle first: a household business (fast, cheap, single location) or an LLC (best for multiple sites; mandatory for foreign investors via IRC/ERC). Register the business and tax code (typically 3–5 working days), then secure the Food Safety Certificate if you prepare drinks on site (most cafés do). Expect: staff health checks and food-safety training certificates, a potable water test from an accredited lab, a facility/equipment plan, and a pre-opening inspection (about 10–15 working days from a complete file). Meet fire rules under Decree 136/2020: small shops submit a fire-safety declaration and maintain extinguishers, exit lighting, and evacuation plans; larger venues over statutory area/occupancy thresholds require design approval and acceptance before operation. If you serve wine/spirits, obtain the on-premise alcohol license (district-level); tobacco sales need a retail license; beer typically does not. Register e-invoices with the tax authority, display prices, and ensure your lease expressly permits F&B, signage, and ventilation. Practical checks that prevent refusals: restroom and handwash sinks, grease trap if food is prepared, compliant signage (Vietnamese first), sidewalk seating permits where applicable. Typical timeline: 2–6 weeks.
