CUSTOMS PROCEDURES FOR IMPORTING ELECTRIC CARS

Importing electric cars into Vietnam is not merely about preparing documents and paying taxes. It is a complex process that requires a deep understanding of current legal regulations and precision in every step. Bringing electric cars into the market not only allows consumers access to advanced green technology but also contributes to reducing environmental pollution and promoting sustainable development. This article provides a detailed guide on the procedures for importing electric cars.

1. Conditions for Importing Electric Cars into Vietnam

To ensure that imported electric cars meet safety and environmental protection standards, businesses must comply with the conditions stipulated in Joint Circular 25/2010/TTLT/BCT-BGTVT-BTC.

• Import Gateways: Passenger cars can only be imported through international seaports such as Cái Lân – Quảng Ninh, Hải Phòng, Đà Nẵng, Ho Chi Minh City, and Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu. Customs procedures must be carried out at the designated import gateway.

• Quality Certification: The Vietnam Register issues a Certificate of Technical Safety and Environmental Protection or a Notice of Exemption from Inspection for imported motor vehicles.

• Certification Issuance Time: The certificate will be issued within 10 working days from the date of completing vehicle inspection at the registered inspection location.

Other required documents according to Circular 20/2011/TT-BCT:

• Detailed customs declaration for imported goods

• Registration form for technical specifications of the imported vehicle

2. Steps for Importing Electric Cars into Vietnam

Step 1: Prepare Import Documents

The required document set includes:

• Customs declaration form

• Commercial invoice

• Bill of lading or transportation contract

• Car import license

• Registration for quality inspection and environmental protection

• Documents confirming import conditions

• Goods valuation declaration

• Authorization letter from the manufacturer

• Certificate of conformity and regulatory compliance

Step 2: Verify Document Legitimacy

Businesses must thoroughly review all documents to ensure they are complete and valid according to the relevant authorities' regulations.

Step 3: Register for Quality Inspection

Submit the inspection registration at the Vietnam Register or other authorized inspection agencies.

Step 4: Customs Declaration and Tax Payment

• Submit an electronic customs declaration via the VNACCS/VCIS system.

• Pay import duties, value-added tax (VAT), and other related taxes.

Step 5: Physical Inspection and Clearance

• Customs authorities conduct a physical inspection of the imported shipment.

• Once all requirements are met, the shipment will be cleared for import.

Step 6: Inspection and Vehicle Registration

• Bring the vehicle to an inspection center for certification of compliance with safety and environmental standards.

• Submit a registration application for vehicle licensing and number plate issuance at the relevant vehicle registration authority.

Step 7: Maintenance and Warranty Compliance

Businesses must adhere to maintenance and warranty policies set by manufacturers and legal regulations.

3. Taxes on Electric Car Imports

Below are the tax rates applicable to imported electric cars:

• Import Duty:

  • 0% for vehicles imported from ASEAN countries.

  • 56% – 74% for vehicles imported from other countries.

• Special Consumption Tax:

  • Ranges from 11% to 15%, depending on the car model.

• Value-Added Tax (VAT):

  • 10% applies to all vehicle categories.

• Registration Fee:

  • 0% for the first 3 years.

  • 50% (compared to gasoline-powered cars) for the following 2 years.

This guide outlines the essential steps for importing electric cars into Vietnam. Businesses must comply with all regulations to ensure a smooth and legal import process.