In the first half of 2025, the adjustment of administrative boundaries and the merger of management authorities in many localities have caused enterprises to face difficulties in handling legal documents. One noteworthy issue is the update of addresses on the Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC), the Investment Registration Certificate (IRC), and other related licenses. The following information will help enterprises clearly understand current regulations and the appropriate way to proceed.

1. Is it mandatory to update the ERC/IRC?

According to current regulations:

• Enterprises are not required to update their address unless they are making other changes (e.g., capital, business lines, legal representative). There is no legal deadline mandating this update.
• In cases where management authorities are merged, changes to the competent authority will be processed and recorded by the relevant state agency. Enterprises are not required to carry out any additional procedures.

2. Why should enterprises proactively update their address?

Although not mandatory, updating the address on the ERC/IRC brings several benefits:

• Ensures consistency of legal information across licenses, contracts, invoices, and commercial records.
• Facilitates smoother dealings with management authorities, particularly in customs, taxation, and investment.
• Reduces legal risks when entering into new contracts or when partners request verification of documents.
• Enhances financial transparency and supports convenience in transactions with banks and service providers.

3. Other licenses and documents to review

• Specialized licenses (environmental, safety, construction, etc.): currently, there are no unified guidelines, so enterprises should contact the issuing authority for specific instructions.
• Company charter, trademark records, transportation documents: it is recommended to update these consistently to avoid discrepancies.
• Economic contracts: not required to amend, but enterprises should notify partners of the new address and reflect it in invoices or working minutes.

4. Key notes on seals, contracts, taxation, and invoices

• Corporate seal: enterprises may continue using their current seal if it still shows the old address. However, if the ERC has already been updated with the new address, it is advisable to update the seal to avoid rejection in administrative procedures.
• Contracts: existing contracts are not required to be amended, but enterprises should notify partners of the new address. For new contracts, the current address must be stated to ensure legal validity.
• Tax authorities: the new address will be automatically updated in the tax management system; no separate procedure is required from enterprises.
• VAT invoices: the addresses of both the seller and the buyer must be correctly updated to the new address. This ensures accurate transaction records, facilitates tax declaration and reconciliation, and helps avoid potential violations during inspections or audits.

Source: Vietnam Legal Information Portal