Guide to Repatriating Dividends from Vietnam for Foreign Investors

This quick guide explains the key steps foreign investors need to follow when transferring dividends from Vietnam to overseas. If you are a foreign corporate shareholder or the owner of a Vietnamese company, the information below will help you ensure a smooth and compliant dividend remittance process.

Eligibility for Dividend Remittance

Before dividends can be paid to a foreign investor, the Vietnamese company must confirm:

• It has positive retained earnings at the time of distribution.

• It is not operating at a loss for the financial year.

• Its financial statements have been audited and submitted to the relevant authorities.

• All taxes and government financial obligations have been fully paid.

Once a valid dividend has been declared, the full amount (100%) can be legally remitted abroad.

Notification to Tax Authorities

After declaring a dividend, the company must notify the local tax authority.
The tax authority then has seven days to raise any objections.
If no objection is received within this period, the company may proceed with the payment.

How the Dividend Is Paid

1. Bank Accounts

Dividend payments to foreign investors must be made through one of the following accounts:

• A Direct Investment Capital Account (DICA) held by the company, or

• An Indirect Investment Capital Account (IICA) held by the foreign investor

2. Foreign Currency Conversion

The company should coordinate with its bank to clarify:

• Required documents for converting VND into foreign currency

• Any additional forms or processes required by the State Bank of Vietnam at the time of remittance

Preparing Documentation

Most banking documents can be prepared during the seven‑day tax authority review period. This helps ensure that once the waiting period ends, the dividend can be transferred without delay.

Conclusion

By following these steps and maintaining close communication with your company and banking partners, you can ensure a compliant and efficient dividend remittance process. This guide outlines the general procedure; however, you should always consult legal and tax professionals for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.