In recent years, Vietnam has become a thriving hub for international education, drawing an increasing number of foreign investors and educators. However, navigating the complex legal compliance landscape for international schools in this dynamic market can be daunting. This comprehensive guide aims to clarify the essential aspects of legal compliance, ensuring your international school's success in Vietnam, with a focus on recent updates from Decree 124/2024/ND-CP.
Vietnam's international education sector has seen remarkable growth, with many expatriate families and local students seeking high-quality, globally-recognized education. As this sector expands, so does the importance of understanding and adhering to the legal framework governing international schools in the country.
Legal compliance isn't just a regulatory requirement—it's a cornerstone for building trust with students, parents, and local authorities. It also plays a crucial role in ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of your educational institution in Vietnam.
2. Understanding the Legal Framework
International schools in Vietnam operate under a complex web of laws and regulations. The primary legislation governing education in Vietnam is the Education Law, which has undergone several amendments to accommodate the growing international education sector. Key regulatory bodies overseeing international schools include:
The Ministry of Education and Training (MOET)
The Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA)
Local Departments of Education and Training
Recent updates in legislation, particularly Decree 124/2024/ND-CP, introduce significant changes for international schools in Vietnam. Key modifications include enhanced transparency requirements, clearer accountability for information disclosure, and standardized inspection processes. These changes aim to maintain high educational standards while improving the operational framework for international schools.
Vietnam's international education sector has seen remarkable growth (Illustration)
Key updates from Decree 124/2024/ND-CP, effective from November 20, 2024, include:
Mandatory disclosure of educational programs, accreditation results, and staff composition on school websites
Explicit responsibility for the accuracy of disclosed information
Standardized methods for inspecting and evaluating academic results
It's crucial for school administrators to thoroughly understand and implement these new regulations to ensure compliance and maintain their institution's reputation.
3. Licensing and Registration Requirements
Obtaining the necessary licenses is a critical first step in ensuring legal compliance. The process typically involves (Clause 14, Article 1 of this Decree):
Investment Registration Certificate (IRC): Required for foreign investors and obtained from the Department of Planning and Investment.
Establishment License: Issued by MOET, this license approves the school's establishment.
Operation License: Also issued by MOET, this permits the school to begin operations.
According to Clause 23, Article 1 of this Decree, documentation required for registration includes a detailed business plan, proof of financial capacity, curriculum details, and staff qualifications. It's important to note that licenses typically need periodic renewal, and schools should be prepared for regular inspections.
4. Curriculum and Academic Standards Compliance
International schools in Vietnam must strike a balance between offering an international curriculum and meeting local education requirements (Clause 20, Article 1, Decree 124/2024/ND-CP). Key considerations include:
Vietnamese curriculum integration: Schools are often required to include Vietnamese language and culture in their curriculum.
Accreditation standards: Many international schools seek accreditation from recognized international bodies to ensure their curriculum meets global standards.
Language of instruction: While English is commonly used, there may be requirements for Vietnamese language instruction, especially for Vietnamese students.
5. Staffing and Employment Regulations
According to Labor Code and Clause 21, Article 1, Decree 124/2024/ND-CP, employing both foreign and local staff comes with its own set of compliance requirements:
Teacher qualifications: Foreign teachers typically need a bachelor's degree and teaching certification from their home country.
Work permits: Foreign staff require work permits, which involve a complex application process.
Local staff employment: Schools must comply with Vietnamese labor laws when employing local staff, including regulations on contracts, working hours, and benefits.
6. Financial Compliance and Reporting
International schools must adhere to strict financial regulations:
Tax obligations: Schools are subject to various taxes, including corporate income tax and value-added tax.
Financial reporting: Regular financial reports must be submitted to relevant authorities.
Auditing: Schools may be required to undergo annual audits by approved Vietnamese auditing firms.
7. Health, Safety, and Infrastructure Standards
Ensuring a safe and healthy environment for students is paramount:
Building and facilities requirements: Schools must meet specific standards for classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas.
Health and safety regulations: This includes fire safety measures, emergency protocols, and regular health check-ups for students and staff.
Emergency preparedness: Schools must have clear procedures for various emergencies, including natural disasters.
8. Student-Related Compliance
Managing student affairs also involves several compliance areas:
Admission policies: Schools must have clear, non-discriminatory admission policies.
Student visa facilitation: For international students, schools often need to assist with visa processes.
Data protection: Schools must comply with regulations regarding the collection, storage, and use of student data.
9. Challenges and Best Practices
Common compliance challenges for international schools in Vietnam include keeping up with changing regulations, managing cross-cultural expectations, and maintaining consistent standards. Best practices for maintaining compliance include:
Regular staff training on compliance issues
Establishing strong relationships with local authorities
Implementing robust internal audit processes
Seeking expert legal advice for complex issues
10. Future Outlook and Preparing for Changes
The regulatory landscape for international schools in Vietnam continues to evolve. Schools should stay informed about potential changes, such as:
Increased emphasis on technology integration in education
Potential changes to foreign ownership regulations
To stay ahead of compliance requirements, schools should actively participate in education forums, maintain open communication with regulatory bodies, and consider joining international school associations operating in Vietnam.
11. Conclusion
Legal compliance for international schools in Vietnam is a multifaceted challenge that requires ongoing attention and effort. By understanding and adhering to the various regulatory requirements – from licensing and curriculum standards to financial reporting and student affairs – international schools can build a strong foundation for long-term success in Vietnam's growing education market.
Remember, compliance is not just about avoiding penalties; it's about creating a safe, high-quality educational environment that benefits students, staff, and the broader community. By prioritizing legal compliance, international schools can focus on their primary mission: providing excellent education and preparing students for global success.
As Vietnam's education sector continues to develop, staying informed and adaptable will be key to navigating the evolving regulatory landscape. With careful planning, diligent management, and a commitment to compliance, international schools can thrive in this exciting and dynamic market.
To list stocks on foreign securities markets, joint-stock credit institutions must obtain approval from the State Bank of Vietnam. Below are the procedures for obtaining approval for listing stocks on foreign securities markets, in accordance with Circular No. 47/2025/TT-NHNN, which takes effect on January 29, 2026.
The establishment of the International Financial Center necessitates an appropriate judicial institution capable of resolving cross-border investment and business disputes. In this context, the Law on Specialized Court at the International Financial Center was enacted as a key legal foundation for the application of a professional adjudicatory mechanism, thereby enhancing Vietnam’s profile and competitiveness in the international arena.
Every year on November 20, Vietnam honors teachers for their dedication to the noble cause of education. This year, the celebration is especially meaningful as the National Assembly has adopted the Law on Teachers, a major step forward in honoring and developing the contigent of teachers, and improving education quality nationwide.
At the exhibition of the 2025 Law Day Celebration organized by the Ministry of Justice on November 7, 2025, the Chairman of the National Assembly, Mr. Tran Thanh Man, directly interacted with the Law AI system operated and developed by LuatVietnam.vn on the National Law Portal.
In recent years, along with the strong growth of the economy and the increasing demand for loans, credit activities in Vietnam have expanded both in scale and scope. However, accompanying this development is the reality that disputes over credit contracts have become increasingly common, not only rising sharply in number but also becoming more complex in nature and extent.
As Vietnam accelerates the transition to clean energy models, the revised Atomic Energy Law stands out as a statutory imperative to facilitate the safe and sustainable development of nuclear power for peaceful purposes.
Vietnam is shaping strategic steps to become a destination for global capital flows, most notably with the plan to establish international financial centers in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. As the doors of integration open wider, domestic enterprises will have opportunities to access large-scale investment projects, but at the same time must also face more sophisticated legal risks.
The strong development of international exchanges has made civil relations with foreign elements increasingly common in Vietnam. Among them, inheritance is a particularly complex field, as it not only relates to property rights and personal rights but is also simultaneously governed by multiple legal systems. Therefore, a comprehensive study of the inheritance estate of foreigners in Vietnam is not only of theoretical significance but also of practical value, helping to ensure the legitimate rights and interests of the parties
On October 27, 2025, the Ministry of Justice presented the Minister’s Commendation to organizations and individuals who have outstanding and exemplary achievements, and are leading the emulation movement of the justice sector in 2025. Among them, LuatVietnam was honored to receive the Commendation in both collective and individual categories.
As Vietnam prepares to establish International Financial Centers in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, domestic enterprises will have greater opportunities to access large capital sources and participate more deeply in the global financial market. However, alongside these opportunities come significant risks, especially in lending and borrowing activities.
English
RSS
