In the current period of economic integration, international business activities are increasingly developing and becoming more widespread. Goods circulated between countries are increasing, requiring customs gates to control and process them quickly, accurately and promptly. At the same time, for specific goods, businesses need to apply for a license to ensure that the goods meet the standards so that they can be exported or imported depending on different transportation methods.

So what is an import-export license? What are the procedures for applying for an import-export license?

1. What is an import license?

An import-export license is a document that aims to prove the legality of the movement of domestic or foreign goods and services in and out of customs gates for commercial purposes. It can be domestic goods for trade with other countries. This document is related to a certain commodity that is certified to meet standards to be able to export or import by many different routes and means of transport.

Currently, there are two types of import licenses:

+ Automatic import license

+ Non-automatic import license.

2. Do all import and export items need a license?

The purpose of applying for an export license for a type of item is to ensure the safety and quality of that item, to see if there are any risks. Those risks can be related to security, national defense, health, people’s lives, etc.

However, not all types of exported goods need an export license, but there will be some separate items on the list of goods that need an export license.

3. List of goods imported into Vietnam under licenses and conditions

The list of goods imported into Vietnam under licenses and conditions is divided according to the scope of management of relevant Ministries and Departments:

• List of goods exported and imported under licenses and conditions under the management of the Ministry of Industry and Trade
• List of goods exported and imported under licenses and conditions under the management of the Ministry of Transport
• List of goods exported and imported under licenses and conditions under the management of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development
• List of goods exported and imported under licenses and conditions under the management of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment
• List of goods exported and imported under licenses and conditions under the management of the Ministry of Information and Communications
• List of goods exported and imported under licenses and conditions under the management of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism
• List of goods exported and imported under licenses and conditions under the management of the Ministry of Licenses and conditions under the management of the Ministry of Health
• List of exported and imported goods subject to licenses and conditions under the management of the State Bank of Vietnam

Legal basis: Decree 69/2018/ND-CP