Re-issuance of Auto Import Business License

The Re-issuance of Auto Import Business License is mandatory when a previously issued license is no longer intact or has been lost. Importers must master current regulations to quickly restore business rights and avoid supply chain disruptions. This article analyzes the procedure in detail according to the latest regulations.

In cases where a business license for importing automobiles needs to be reissued

According to Clause 1, Article 18 of Decree 116/2017/ND-CP, re-issuance applies only when the license is lost or damaged.

• Lost License: The original document is no longer in the enterprise’s possession due to objective or subjective causes (misplacement, theft, natural disaster, fire). The enterprise is legally responsible for the truthfulness of the declared reason.
• Damaged License: Physical conditions render the license invalid or information unreadable (torn, blurred, stained, partially burnt). While the document exists, it does not meet administrative standards for customs or specialized inspection procedures.

The competent authority is responsible for reissuing the automobile import business license.

Based on Article 18 of Decree 116/2017/ND-CP, the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) is the sole authority competent to process these dossiers.

• Centralized Authority: Enterprises must submit dossiers to the central agency (MOIT) rather than local departments.
• Verification: MOIT checks the legality against archived records and may request explanations if inconsistencies arise.
• System Update: MOIT coordinates with the General Department of Customs and Vietnam Register to update the license status on the National Single Window Portal to prevent trade fraud.

Required Dossier for requesting the renewal of an automobile import business license.

According to Clause 1, Article 18 of Decree 116/2017/ND-CP, the dossier is simplified but requires high accuracy:

1. Request Form: Request for re-issuance of Auto Import Business License (Form No. 07, Appendix II, Decree 116/2017/ND-CP).
   • Content: Must fully declare enterprise information, old license number, issuance date, and specifically explain the reason (lost/damaged).
   • Note: Do not alter the form or erase content. While not legally required, enterprises should prepare a copy of the Enterprise Registration Certificate for reference if requested.

Procedures for renewing an automobile import business license.

The process follows strict administrative timelines under Clause 2, Article 18 of Decree 116/2017/ND-CP:

Step 1: Submission The enterprise submits 01 dossier set directly, via postal system, or other appropriate methods to the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Step 2: Receipt and Completeness Check MOIT checks the form.

• If incomplete: Within 07 working days of receipt, MOIT issues a written request for supplementation. The enterprise must comply to avoid returns.

Step 3: Appraisal and Re-issuance Within 07 working days from receiving a complete and valid dossier, MOIT reviews the content and re-issues the License.

• Refusal: A written reply stating the reason is issued.

>>> See more at:

• Licensing for Automobile Import Business
• Re-issuance (Exchange) of Automobile Import Business License

Long Phan Consulting provides consulting services for the renewal of automobile import business licenses.

Long Phan Consulting Company provides comprehensive solutions to overcome administrative barriers:

• Consulting: Reviewing legal status; determining the cause (lost/damaged); assessing re-issuance feasibility; advising on dossier preparation.
• Drafting: Preparing the Request Form according to regulations.
• Representation: Submitting the dossier to MOIT; tracking progress; handling explanations and supplementations.
• Resolution: Handling deep explanations or complaints if risks of refusal arise; receiving and handing over the re-issued License.

Frequently Asked Questions about Renewing an Automobile Import Business License

What is the maximum processing time?

Total time does not exceed 14 working days: 07 days for completeness check (if supplementation is needed) and 07 days for appraisal/re-issuance after receiving a valid dossier. (Legal Basis: Clause 2, Article 18, Decree 116/2017/ND-CP).

Is the Enterprise Registration Certificate required?

No. The current regulation only requires the Request Form. (Legal Basis: Clause 1, Article 18, Decree 116/2017/ND-CP).

Where to submit via post?

Submit to the Ministry of Industry and Trade (specifically the Agency of Foreign Trade). Local Departments of Industry and Trade do not have authority. (Legal Basis: Point a, Clause 2, Article 18, Decree 116/2017/ND-CP).

Does re-issuance change the validity period?

No. Re-issuance only restores the document. The core content, including the license number and validity period, remains the same as the original license. (Legal Basis: Article 18, Decree 116/2017/ND-CP).

Is this procedure used for address changes?

No. If the head office address changes, the enterprise must use the Adjustment Procedure (Article 19), not the re-issuance procedure (Article 18). (Legal Basis: Article 18 and Article 19, Decree 116/2017/ND-CP).

Conclusion

The Re-issuance of Auto Import Business License requires absolute accuracy and strict compliance with MOIT procedures. Long Phan Consulting Company is ready to resolve legal issues quickly to ensure business continuity. Please contact Hotline 1900636389 for expert advice.