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| Managers and operators of prize-winning video game service facilities must have at least three years’ experience in managing and operating in this field__Photo: VNA |
The Government has recently released Decree 86/2026/ND-CP, introducing new requirements and procedures for the operation of prize-winning video games for foreigners.
Revising several articles of Decree 121 issued in 2021, the new decree introduces additional requirements for managers and operators of prize-winning video game service facilities. Specifically, they must have full civil legal capacity and must not be under criminal prosecution or serving a sentence, or subject to court-imposed bans from practicing in this field. Also, they are required to hold a university or higher degree and have at least three years’ experience in managing and operating prize-winning video game business activities.
Regarding the procedures for issuing certificates of eligibility to conduct prize-winning video game business, the decree permits different methods for submission of application dossiers. Specifically, applicants may send the dossiers by hand-delivery, by post, or through the Ministry of Finance’s information system for settlement of administrative procedures.
As for the processing time, the Ministry of Finance has 90 days to review an application dossier and issue a business eligibility certificate, counted from the date of receiving a complete and valid dossier. In case the dossier is incomplete or invalid, the ministry will notify the applicant within 10 working days for supplementation of the dossier.
Notably, the decree imposes stricter requirement for renewal of the certificate. Specifically, an enterprise whose business eligibility certificate has expired and that wishes to have the certificate renewed must meet the required conditions for issuance of the certificate and other conditions. Initially, it must have five-star tourist accommodation facilities recognised by competent authorities under the Law on Tourism and guiding texts. Furthermore, it must have a location for prize-winning video game business that meets the law-specified requirements, and appoint qualified managers or operators for the business facility. As per the capital condition, the enterprise must maintain the charter capital of at least VND 500 billion.
The renewal will not be granted if the enterprise is subject to revocation of the business eligibility certificate or suspension of operation for two or more times within 10 years preceding the time of request for renewal of the certificate.
The decree is set to take effect on May 15.- (VLLF)
