Ho Chi Minh City continues to strengthen its digital governance framework. On October 24, 2025, the Department of Finance issued Notice 10441/TB-STC, introducing the use of digital signatures in business administrative procedures.

Effective October 25, 2025, the Business Registration Office provides electronic results for procedures related to company establishment and operation. These electronic documents are fully recognized as legally equivalent to paper-based results.

This marks a significant shift toward a more efficient and digitally integrated business environment in Vietnam.

Key Changes

1. Administrative results are issued in electronic format
2. Electronic documents have full legal validity
3. Faster processing without physical document handling
4. Reduced dependency on paper-based workflows

Legal Validity of Electronic Documents

A central feature of this policy is the full legal recognition of electronic results.

Documents issued by the Business Registration Office:

1. Carry the same legal weight as paper documents
2. Are accepted by tax authorities, banks, and government agencies
3. Can be used across all official administrative processes

This eliminates ambiguity and supports wider adoption of digital documentation.

Business Impact and Benefits

Faster Processing

Businesses can receive administrative results without delays caused by printing or delivery.

Operational Efficiency

Reduced paperwork lowers administrative costs and simplifies internal processes.

Stronger Compliance Certainty

Clear legal validity ensures documents are accepted across institutions.

Improved Accessibility

Documents can be accessed digitally anytime, supporting remote operations and cross-border teams.

Regulatory Context

Notice 10441/TB-STC aligns with Vietnam’s broader regulatory framework on digital administration, including:

1. Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee directive (October 22, 2025)
2. Government Decree 45/2020/ND-CP
3. Circular 01/2023/TT-VPCP

Ho Chi Minh City is among the leading jurisdictions implementing full digitalization for business administrative procedures, alongside Hanoi and Bac Ninh.

Practical Considerations for Businesses

To adapt effectively, businesses should:

1. Ensure internal systems support electronic document management
2. Train staff to verify and handle digital signatures
3. Update compliance workflows to reflect digital processes

Early adoption can improve efficiency and reduce administrative friction.

FAQ: Digital Signatures and Electronic Results

Do businesses still need paper copies?

No. Electronic results are legally valid without requiring printed versions.

How are electronic results delivered?

Through registered email addresses or the official online administrative portal.

Can these documents be used for banking or tax purposes?

Yes. They are fully accepted by banks, tax authorities, and government agencies.

Can businesses still request paper documents?

Electronic results are the default. Paper copies may be requested where necessary.

Conclusion

The implementation of digital signatures under Notice 10441/TB-STC reflects Ho Chi Minh City’s commitment to improving its business environment through digital transformation.

With full legal recognition of electronic documents, businesses benefit from faster processing, lower administrative burden, and stronger compliance clarity. Adapting to this system is essential for companies operating or expanding in Vietnam.