Guide to Setting Up a Business in Indonesia & Vietnam

Published: 14 January 2026 · Last reviewed: 4 May 2026 · Reviewed by Ray Tay, Co-Founder & Managing Director, VIVOS PTE. LTD. (ACRA Filing Agent FA20240323 · MOM EA Licence 24S2425)

How Can a Foreigner Set Up a Business in Indonesia and Vietnam?

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Tax & Accounting Guide

Who Is This Southeast Asia Business Setup Guide for?

Foreign Founders

Planning ASEAN expansion and evaluating operational structures.

CFOs & Finance Leaders

Assessing cross-border setup risks and capital deployment strategies.

Business Owners & Investors

Comparing Indonesia vs Vietnam for regional investment opportunities.

Companies & Decision-Makers

Choosing between a Representative Office (RO) and a full operating entity.

What’s inside the guide & why you should download it?

What’s inside the guide & why you should download it

At VIVOS, we provide expert advice on business incorporation, compliance, and cross-border operations in Southeast Asia.
This guide helps decision-makers clearly understand the practical steps, regulatory requirements, and operational nuances in Indonesia and Vietnam.

Structured Breakdown of Setup Process

Learn the whole step-by-step process for company formation, approvals, and compliance in each country.

Eligibility & Compliance Insights

Understand ownership restrictions, sector limitations, capital requirements, and residency implications.

Step-by-Step Clarity

Access timelines, required documentation, and considerations for legal incorporation operations.

Avoid Mistakes & Strengthen Strategy

Ensure your setup is complete, compliant, and aligned with regulations to minimise errors and operational risk.

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Indonesia vs Vietnam Setup Guide Now

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Southeast Asia Business Setup Guide?

It is a free, downloadable resource that explains how foreigners can legally enter and operate businesses in Indonesia and Vietnam, with step-by-step guidance.

Does this guide cover all sectors?

It highlights sector restrictions and red flags relevant for foreign investors, but focuses on practical setup and compliance guidance.

What key challenges does this guide address?

The guide explains capital requirements, FX and banking constraints, legal representation, ongoing compliance obligations, and exit procedures.

Who should use this guide?

Foreign founders, CFOs, investors, and companies deciding between Representative Offices and full operating entities in Indonesia or Vietnam.