Licence Per Invoice Explained - DHL Express Thailand

License per Invoice is a regulatory measure that requires importers to obtain a specific license for each commercial invoice when bringing specific categories of goods, such as medical devices, pharmaceuticals and certain foods into Thailand. This import document ensures that all of the items stated on the invoice meet Thailand's import regulations, and is approved by the Thai FDA. Understanding this legal requirement is crucial for a smooth customs clearance process for any businesses planning to import to Thailand. 

The purpose of license per invoice

The licence per Invoice document helps authorities regulate imports by ensuring that all goods meet Thailand's national standards and policies. This regulatory measure is crucial for maintaining public safety, health standards, and compliance with environmental regulations. 

Certain products and product categories that require a license per invoice include:

• Food: When importing food into Thailand, an importer must obtain a licence from the Thai FDA in accordance with section 15 of the Food Act, B.E. 2522 (1979). This is to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
• Drug import: An import license is required for this product category to ensure that all pharmaceuticals meet the strict standards set by the Thai FDA and are safe for consumption and use.
• Import medical devices: Only registered medical devices with the Thai FDA may be imported into Thailand. A licence per invoice will be issued once customs clearance has confirmed that all devices listed in the shipment (airway bill, invoice and packing list) correspond to valid product licences or certificates.

With the licence per invoice system, Thai authorities ensure that all goods from these categories are scrutinised before import into Thailand.

How the licence per Invoice works

The licence per invoice is not a one-time requirement, you must obtain one for every shipment.

Application process

To obtain a license per invoice, importers must follow these steps:

1. Import documents and declaration: Gather all necessary documents for submission. This includes:
   1. Commercial invoice
   2. Airway bill
   3. Packing list
   4. Any relevant certifications, such as country of origin
2. Submit your import documents: Submit your application and documents electronically through the National Single Window (NSW), Thai customs department. The submission can be sent two to three days before the shipment is expected to reach Thailand.
3. Approval: The application undergoes a review process to verify the information and ensure all standards are met. The entire review process takes one to two days.
4. Issuance: Upon approval, the licence per invoice is issued. Your goods may be assigned a green label (can be released without inspection) or a red label (must undergo inspection). 

Why should importers pay attention to the license per invoice

Complying with licence per invoice requirements is essential for importers to avoid legal penalties and customs delays. Non-compliance with these regulations can result in significant consequences, including fines, shipment holds, or even the rejection of goods at the border. 

By ensuring that each shipment has the necessary import licence, importers can navigate the regulatory landscape more effectively and mitigate the risks associated with non-compliance, demonstrating a commitment to Thailand's import regulations.

Furthermore, adhering to licence per invoice requirements facilitates smoother market access by ensuring goods are cleared efficiently through customs. This compliance builds trust with regulatory authorities, such as the Thai FDA, and enhances an importer’s reputation and reliability. 

Best practices for smooth licence per invoice processing

To ensure a seamless licence per Invoice application process, importers should adopt several best practices to help avoid delays and ensure compliance with Thailand import regulations, facilitating smoother customs clearance and efficient market entry.

Early preparation

Preparing documentation and applications well in advance of shipping dates is key. This proactive approach helps avoid last-minute issues and ensures you can apply for your licence per invoice well before the goods arrive at the border. This will prevent scenarios where your goods are held up at customs awaiting a licence per invoice application.

Professional assistance

Engaging customs brokers or logistics experts can significantly ease the licence per invoice process. These professionals have in-depth knowledge of Thailand import regulations and can navigate the complexities on behalf of importers.

Record keeping

For Thai importers dealing with goods subject to Thai FDA and license per invoice requirements, it’s important to maintain meticulous records of all licences and invoices for auditing and compliance purposes. Having proper import documents helps in tracking the status of licences and provides evidence of compliance during inspections.

Staying updated

Import regulations and requirements can change frequently. Thai importers should stay informed about the latest updates to Thailand import regulations to ensure ongoing compliance. Subscribing to regulatory updates by the FDA and attending industry seminars can be beneficial.

Training and education

Investing in training and education for staff involved in the customs clearance process can significantly improve productivity and efficiency. Staff who understand the necessary import documents and Thailand’s import regulations can help prevent errors when applying for an import license. 

Mastering license per invoice for import to Thailand

Understanding and complying with the licence per invoice requirement is crucial for the smooth importation of goods into Thailand. This regulatory measure plays a vital role in ensuring that all imported items meet national standards, safeguarding public health, and maintaining environmental safety.

Navigating international trade regulations can be complex, but partnering with an experienced logistics provider like DHL Express can simplify the process. With our global network and customs expertise, DHL Express can help Thai importers achieve faster, more reliable imports.

For a seamless import experience, create a DHL Express business account today. Enjoy smooth shipping to Thailand with expertise to facilitate smooth customs clearance and logistics advice to help ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements. By mastering the licence per Invoice process, importers can enhance their business operations and achieve smooth market entry into Thailand.