How to Import Laptops into Vietnam: The Ultimate 2025 Guide for Taxes, Procedures & Legal Compliance

Introduction

Importing laptops into Vietnam in 2025 involves more than just international shipping. To comply with Vietnamese import regulations, businesses must understand the laptop import procedure, including applicable HS codes, import taxes, VAT, and technical compliance requirements. Whether you are an electronics retailer, IT company, or distributor looking to expand into Vietnam, this complete guide explains every step to successfully import laptops into Vietnam—from customs clearance and documentation to certifications and energy efficiency standards.

HS Code and Import Tax for Laptops

When importing laptops into Vietnam, correctly identifying the HS Code is crucial for determining the applicable import duties and taxes. The specific code for laptops, notebooks, and subnotebooks is:

• HS Code: 84713020

This classification ensures accurate customs processing and tariff application.

Import Taxes Applicable to Laptops in Vietnam

• Value Added Tax (VAT): 10% — applies to the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) of imported laptops.

• Import Duty: 0% — laptops imported from countries that have Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Vietnam are eligible for a zero import duty rate, making it cost-effective for importers from these regions.

Important Update on Low-Value Goods Taxation (Effective February 18, 2025)

Vietnam has revised its tax policy regarding low-value imports. Previously, goods valued under 1 million VND were exempt from import duties. However, as of February 18, 2025, this exemption no longer applies. Now, all imported products, including laptops regardless of value, must comply with the full import tax and VAT regulations.

This change impacts small shipments and emphasizes the need for accurate tax calculation and compliance during laptop importation.

Required Documentation for Import

Successfully importing laptops into Vietnam requires thorough preparation of all necessary customs and regulatory documents. Proper documentation ensures smooth customs clearance and compliance with Vietnamese laws. Below is the detailed list of mandatory and conditional documents you need to prepare before starting the import process:

Regulatory Requirements When Importing Laptops to Vietnam

Importing laptops into Vietnam involves strict regulatory compliance to ensure safety, quality, and environmental standards are met. Below are the detailed regulatory requirements every importer must follow:

1. Quality Inspection Registration

Before customs clearance, all imported laptops must undergo a Quality Inspection Registration process. Importers are required to submit a comprehensive dossier including:

• Product technical specifications and datasheets

• Energy efficiency details according to Vietnamese standards

• Commercial invoices and shipping documents (Bill of Lading or Airway Bill)

This registration is handled by the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) or authorized inspection centers and ensures the product meets Vietnam’s quality standards.

2. Energy Efficiency Compliance

Laptops imported into Vietnam must comply with national energy efficiency regulations defined by the following standards:

• TCVN 11847:2017 — General energy efficiency requirements for electronic devices

• TCVN 9508:2012 — Specific energy consumption limits for information technology equipment

Importers must submit official energy efficiency testing results from accredited laboratories. In certain cases, importers may submit a formal commitment letter requesting exemption or deferral of destructive testing, subject to MIC approval.

3. Type Approval Certification for Wireless Devices

Laptops equipped with wireless communication features such as WiFi, Bluetooth, or LTE require mandatory Type Approval Certification to verify compliance with radiofrequency and electromagnetic safety standards. Relevant Vietnamese standards include:

Importers should note that laptops with advanced wireless technologies like WiFi 6E or WiFi 7 must have these functions disabled before import due to the absence of specific regulatory standards in Vietnam.

4. Declaration of Conformity (DoC)

Following successful Type Approval Certification, importers must file a Declaration of Conformity with the Ministry of Information and Communications. This dossier includes:

• Type Approval Certificate

• Completed Conformity Declaration Form

• Supporting technical documents and test reports

• Battery safety compliance documentation (if applicable)

The Declaration of Conformity confirms that the laptops fully meet all Vietnamese technical, safety, and environmental regulations and is mandatory for customs clearance.

5. Exemptions Under Circular 02/2024/TT-BTTTT

In an effort to facilitate small-scale imports, Circular 02/2024/TT-BTTTT introduced exemptions for shipments containing three units or fewer per product category. Such shipments may be exempt from destructive energy efficiency testing if the importer provides a formal written commitment ensuring compliance with applicable standards.

This exemption helps reduce costs and processing times for small-volume importers or personal shipments.

Step-by-Step Import Procedure

Successfully importing laptops into Vietnam requires following a precise sequence of steps to ensure full compliance with customs and regulatory requirements. Below is a detailed, SEO-optimized guide outlining each stage of the import process:

1. Product Classification and HS Code Verification

Begin by confirming the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for laptops, which is 84713020. Accurate classification is essential for determining applicable import duties, taxes, and compliance procedures under Vietnamese customs law.

2. Preparation of Required Documentation

Gather all necessary commercial and technical documents to support your import declaration, including:

• Commercial Invoice

• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill

• Packing List

• Certificate of Origin (if applicable)

• Technical Specifications and Datasheets

Ensure documents are accurate and consistent to avoid customs delays.

3. Register for Quality Inspection with MIC

Submit the product dossier to the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) or its authorized inspection centers for Quality Inspection Registration. This step verifies that your laptops meet Vietnam’s quality and safety standards before customs clearance.

4. Conduct Mandatory Testing (If Applicable)

If required, arrange for energy efficiency testing and radiofrequency (RF) compliance testing at accredited laboratories recognized by Vietnamese authorities. Testing confirms compliance with standards such as TCVN 11847:2017 for energy efficiency and relevant QCVN standards for wireless safety.

5. Apply for Certifications: Type Approval and Declaration of Conformity

Upon successful testing, apply for the following certifications:

• Type Approval Certification for laptops with wireless features (WiFi, Bluetooth, LTE)

• Declaration of Conformity confirming full compliance with technical and safety regulations

These certifications are mandatory to proceed with customs clearance.

6. Submit Customs Declaration

Present the complete import dossier—including all documentation, certificates, and test reports—to Vietnam Customs for import declaration. Accurate and complete submission is crucial for timely clearance.

7. Customs Clearance and Goods Release

After customs reviews and approves your dossier, your shipment will be officially cleared. You can then arrange for the transportation of laptops from the port or airport to your warehouse or distribution center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I import one laptop without certification?

Yes, if it’s hand-carried for personal use. For shipping imports, up to 3 units may be exempt if a compliance commitment is provided.

How long does certification take?

Testing and approval typically take 2–3 weeks depending on lab and agency schedules.

Do I need to test in Vietnam?

You can use either designated Vietnamese labs or recognized foreign labs accepted by the MIC.

Conclusion

Importing laptops into Vietnam in 2025 involves several steps — from tax classification and certification to quality inspection. Following the right procedures ensures smooth clearance and avoids costly delays. Whether you’re importing for resale or internal use, staying compliant with Vietnamese regulations is key to a successful operation.

Need help with import compliance or logistics? Contact Green NRJ for expert support in documentation, testing coordination, and full Importer of Record services in Vietnam.

Related Articles:

• Guide to Importing to Vietnam