In the context of international economic integration, Vietnamese enterprises are increasingly expanding their cooperation with foreign partners. Therefore, understanding and complying with contractor tax regulations is a crucial factor that helps businesses operate efficiently and transparently. One of the key aspects of contractor tax is determining the exchange rate when declaring tax.
Below, Vinasc provides detailed guidance on determining exchange rates when declaring contractor tax based on current regulations.

Key Takeaways:
– Importance of Contractor Tax Compliance
– Legal Framework
– Determining the Actual Transaction Exchange Rate
– Specific Regulations on Declaring Contractor Tax
– Benefits of Proper Understanding
– Support and Consultation
Legal Framework
According to Clause 4, Article 2 of Circular No. 26/2015/TT-BTC, amending and supplementing Article 27 of Circular No. 156/2013/TT-BTC dated November 6, 2013, and Article 7 of the Tax Administration Law No. 38/2019/QH14, taxpayers must fulfill their tax obligations in Vietnamese Dong (VND), except for certain special cases where payment in foreign currency is permitted. In cases where revenue, expenses, or taxable prices arise in foreign currency, enterprises must convert them to VND at the actual transaction exchange rate.
Determining the Actual Transaction Exchange Rate
According to Point 1.3, Clause 1, Article 69 of Circular No. 200/2014/TT-BTC (amended by Clause 3, Article 1 of Circular No. 53/2016/TT-BTC), the actual transaction exchange rate is applied to account for revenue and expenses when transactions arise in foreign currency. Specifically:
• The actual transaction exchange rate for accounting revenue is the buying rate of the commercial bank where the taxpayer has an account.
• The actual transaction exchange rate for accounting expenses is the selling rate of the commercial bank where the taxpayer has an account at the time the foreign currency transaction occurs.
Specific Regulations on Declaring Contractor Tax

Determining the actual transaction exchange rate when declaring contractor tax depends on the contract terms and actual situations:
1. In cases where the foreign contractor tax is a receivable debt of the Vietnamese enterprise: The actual transaction exchange rate is the buying rate of the commercial bank where the enterprise designates the customer to pay at the time of the transaction.
2. In cases where the foreign contractor tax is included in the asset value or expenses purchased from the foreign contractor that have not yet been paid: The actual transaction exchange rate is the selling rate of the commercial bank where the enterprise plans to conduct the transaction at the time of the transaction.
3. In cases where the foreign contractor tax is included in the asset value or expenses purchased from the foreign contractor and paid immediately in foreign currency: The actual transaction exchange rate is the buying rate of the commercial bank where the enterprise makes the payment.
Taxpayers must adjust declarations according to the correct regulations in Article 47 of Circular No. 80/2021/TT-BTC to ensure compliance with tax regulations and avoid errors in accounting. Ensuring accurate declaration of the actual transaction exchange rate is an important step that helps businesses avoid legal and financial risks.
Benefits of Understanding Regulations
Understanding and correctly applying the regulations on exchange rates when declaring contractor tax not only helps businesses fulfill their tax obligations accurately but also optimizes international business operations. Understanding and complying with tax regulations will help businesses:
• Enhance transparency and accuracy in financial reporting.
• Avoid legal and financial risks due to tax declaration errors.
• Increase credibility and trust with domestic and foreign partners.
Vinasc is always ready to accompany enterprises in the process of international economic integration and development. With our experience and deep understanding of tax regulations, we are committed to providing the most optimal and effective solutions, helping businesses not only comply with the law but also achieve sustainable development.
If your business needs support or has any questions related to determining exchange rates when declaring contractor tax, do not hesitate to contact Vinasc. We are always willing to provide consultation and detailed information to help your business fulfill tax obligations in the most efficient and accurate manner.