Export Documentation

Export Documentation for Vietnam: Required Documents

Documents for shipping to or from Vietnam: core documents, certificates, restricted goods, and customs procedures.

Country
Vietnam
Customs authority
General Department of Vietnam Customs
Trading bloc
RCEP, CPTPP, EVFTA
Currency
VND
Estimated clearance
1-5 days depending on channel

Business registration required

Tax code mandatory

VNACCS customs system

VAT (10%) on most imports

Core documents

  • Commercial Invoice (required): English or Vietnamese
  • Packing List (required): Detailed contents
  • Bill of Lading / Air Waybill (required): Transport document
  • Customs Declaration (required): Via VNACCS

Additional documents

  • Certificate of Origin: For FTA rates (EVFTA, RCEP)
  • Quality Certification: For regulated products
  • Import License: For restricted goods

Special certificates

  • CFS Certificate: applies to Food products, issued by Ministry of Health.
  • Registration Certificate: applies to Cosmetics, medical devices, issued by Drug Administration.

Customs procedures

  • VNACCS electronic system
  • Green/yellow/red channel selection
  • Priority enterprises available

Restricted goods

  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Cosmetics
  • Food products
  • Used goods

Prohibited goods

  • Weapons
  • Narcotics
  • Counterfeit goods
  • Right-hand drive vehicles

Tips

  • EVFTA offers great rates for EU goods
  • Growing manufacturing hub
  • Ho Chi Minh and Hai Phong main ports

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Frequently asked questions

What is VNACCS?

Vietnam Automated Cargo and Container Clearance System for electronic customs declarations.

How does EVFTA benefit EU exporters?

EU-Vietnam FTA eliminates tariffs on most goods, making Vietnam attractive for EU companies.