GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 8, 2026

Import licence

When goods enter a country, customs authorities often require an import licence—an official authorization that regulates which products and quantities may be imported.

Last updated: 8 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/business/calculation-customs-duties/customs-procedures/import-licences_en

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Logistics Concept

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When goods enter a country, customs authorities often require an import licence—an official authorization that regulates which products and quantities may be imported. The importer must typically obtain the licence before submitting the goods declaration at the border; the competent trade or regulatory authority issues it for a defined period. Import licences are common for controlled goods (arms, pharmaceuticals, foodstuffs), for quota-managed imports (tariff-rate quotas), or as part of trade protection measures against dumping or market flooding. Importing without a valid licence results in cargo seizure and administrative penalties.

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Import licence

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