Country Overview
Legal forms of philanthropic organizations included in the law: Association, Foundation, Non-Governmental Organization, Technology and Science Organization, Non-Profit Organization
Main social issues addressed by these organizations: Basic Needs, Environment, Water and Sanitation, Youth and Family, Social work, Governance, Research and Communication, Humanitarian Issues
Average time established by law to register a philanthropic organization: 31-60 days
Although the Vietnamese law stipulates that once receiving the legitimate application from the applicant, the decision needs to be made within 45 days, the practice shows a different picture, in which the registration process for local philanthropic organizations (POs) is very lengthy and bureaucratic.
Average cost for registering a philanthropic organization: USD 131
Government levels primarily regulating the incorporation of philanthropic organizations: Central/Federal Government, State Government, Local Government, State-Owned Umbrella Organization
State-Owned Umbrella Organization is established to control all Vietnamese POs such as the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations.
In order to have a legal status, all organizations and associations in Vietnam have to register themselves with a designated state body. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and associations in Vietnam can register with the Ministry of Home Affairs, or the Provincial People's Government (provincial government), or the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations (VUSTA) which is an umbrella organization established by the state to control and manage Vietnam NGOs. In most cases, NGOs and associations register themselves with VUSTA.