Import Permits and Licenses: Which Products Need Them

A permit is an approval from a government agency that lets you bring in a regulated product. Customs will not release restricted goods without it.

Typical steps

1. Identify the regulator: find which ministry controls your product
2. Prepare the application: company documents, product details, supplier information, labels and sometimes lab reports
3. Submit and pay the fee: to the ministry or through its online system
4. Wait for approval: processing times vary by product
5. Use the permit at customs: your broker attaches it to the declaration

Products that often need approval

• Medicines, cosmetics and medical devices
• Food, beverages and supplements
• Agricultural products, plants and animal products
• Pesticides, fertilizers and chemicals
• Telecom and radio equipment
• Vehicles and some used equipment
• Alcohol and tobacco products

Tips

• Apply before you order large quantities
• Check whether the permit is for one shipment or valid for a period
• Make sure the product name and importer name on the permit match your documents
• Keep copies of every approval

Permit rules differ by product and may change. Ask the relevant ministry or your broker.