UPDATED GUIDE TO LAND PROCEDURES IN VIETNAM FOR 2025

Land procedures may sound familiar, but in reality, they often confuse people with countless documents, administrative rules and processing stages. As Vietnams real estate market becomes more dynamic in 2025, every transaction - from buying, selling to red book application - requires utmost accuracy. Without a clear grasp of the required steps and paperwork, delays, extra costs and legal risks can easily occur. This guide provides an A-to-Z overview to help you understand and confidently navigate land procedures.

What are land procedures?

Land procedures refer to all legal-administrative processes regulated by the State when theres a change in land use rights - including transfers, donations, inheritance, new issuance or updates on land title (Red Book).

As regulated by Circular 09/2021/TT-BTNMT, all procedures must follow specific rules on documentation, deadlines and order of execution. While local authorities may add requirements, they must comply with central regulations.

Key land procedures you should know

First-time land use rights registration

This is the initial step to legalize your land use rights. Submit your application to the local Land Use Rights Registration Office or designated department. The file includes a registration form, proof of land use rights and relevant papers. Processing time: within 30 working days after receiving valid documents.

Red book (Land use rights certificate) issuance

After registering land use rights, apply for the red book to obtain official land ownership. This involves submitting documents to authorities, fulfilling financial obligations and receiving the certificate. Processing time: within 20 working days.

Transfer, donation or inheritance of land

For any ownership transfer, donation or inheritance, legal procedures must be followed - including drafting contracts, notarization, submitting applications and paying taxes/fees. Processing time: up to 10 working days.

Step-by-step land procedure workflow

Follow these 10 steps for a legally compliant land procedure:

1. Identify purpose & jurisdiction: e.g., transfer, donation, inheritance or red book application

2. Prepare documents: application form, land certificate, personal ID, maps, contracts...

3. Submit documents at Land Registration Office/Department of Natural Resources

4. Document screening: officials verify all paperwork

5. Field inspection (if required)

6. Pay taxes and fees as per regulations

7. Public disclosure of land info for community feedback

8. Legal evaluation and signing of red book

9. Certificate issuance and handover

10. Update cadastral database

Processing timeline: typically 30 working days, extendable to 45 days with field inspection.

SunValues land appraisal services support land procedures

With over 23 years of experience, Indochina International Appraisal & Investment JSC (SunValue) provides professional land valuation services while assisting clients with procedures such as name transfer, red book issuance, donations and inheritance.

SunValue specializes in land appraisal and supports clients with:

• Accurate land value assessment

• Reports aligned with legal document requirements

• Efficient process tracking from survey to final valuation

If youre preparing for land title changes, mortgage, inheritance or transfers - SunValue is a trusted partner.

Indochina International Appraisal & Investment JSC (SunValue)

• Address: Indochina International Appraisal System

• Hotline/Zalo: 081 519 8877

• Website: inavn.vn

• Email: contact@sunvalue.vn

• Facebook: Indochina International Appraisal and Investment

Conclusion

Land procedures are not just about paperwork - they are a legal journey to protect your rights. By understanding the steps, avoiding errors, and working with experts like SunValue, you can save time, reduce costs and secure your transactions. Be proactive or let professionals support you for the most seamless land procedure experience in 2025.