Tiếng Việt
中文 (中国)
VIETNAM IMPORT PROCEDURE FOR WIRELESS ACCESS POINTS
An Access Point may be casually called a “Wi-Fi transmitter”, yet a change in frequency band, EIRP, model revision or integrated function can alter the applicable QCVNs, conformity route and import quality inspection. This E2E guide is designed for importers, procurement, compliance and operations teams to lock the file before ETA.
8517.62.51
Wireless LAN equipment; confirm against the actual principal function.
MFN 0% · Ordinary 5% · Budget import VAT at 10%.
Qualifying 2.4/5/6 GHz APs are high-risk goods subject to conformity and state quality inspection.
Circular 36/2026/TT-BKHCN, effective 1 July 2026.
Method 3 or Method 7 under Circular 14/2026/TT-BKHCN.
Model · bands · EIRP · QCVN · certificate · inspection · label · C/O.
SCOPE
This guide covers standalone, controller-based and cloud-managed indoor/outdoor Wireless Access Points used for WLAN connectivity, including PoE-powered enterprise models operating in 2.4, 5, 6 or 60 GHz bands.
Devices whose principal character is wireless LAN access.
4G/5G router/AP, mesh gateway, CPE, ONT/ONU, firewall, VPN appliance or controller.
Used/refurbished, samples, warranty replacements, project or temporary imports.
PoE injector, adapter, removable antenna, cellular/Bluetooth/Zigbee/Thread/GPS or cryptography.
CLASSIFICATION & TECHNICAL IDENTIFICATION
Identify the product by controlled technical evidence rather than its trade name. The dossier should show how data enters through Ethernet/PoE and is transmitted over WLAN, and whether routing, NAT, firewall, modem or backhaul functions are present.
| Criterion | Evidence | Risk if incorrect | Suggested declaration description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product identity | Catalogue, product brief, manual | Confusing an AP with a router, modem, CPE, ONT/ONU or controller | “Wireless LAN access point, brand…, model…, bands…, 100% new” |
| Wi-Fi standard and bands | RF datasheet: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax/be; 2.4/5/6/60 GHz | Wrong QCVN/risk category or missed quality inspection | State the standard, bands and exact model |
| EIRP | RF test report, manufacturer declaration, antenna gain | Unable to verify 60/200 mW thresholds | Do not estimate; use controlled technical evidence |
| Network function | Architecture, routing/NAT/firewall/controller/cloud features | Wrong HS if the main function is routing, gateway or security | Describe the principal function, not merely the trade name |
| Power and accessories | BOM, packing list, adapter/PoE details | Accessory/model mismatch or additional requirements | State whether adapter/PoE injector is included |
| Condition and purpose | Invoice, contract, serial list, new-goods confirmation | Used/refurbished goods may be prohibited or require an exception | Declare “100% new” only with evidence |
HS CODE – TAX – C/O
The common reference for a standalone WLAN Access Point is 8517.62.51 – wireless LAN equipment. Wi-Fi capability alone is not enough to lock this code.
| Reference HS | When to consider | Misclassification risk | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8517.62.51 | Standalone WLAN access point whose principal character is wireless LAN equipment | Incorrect for a 4G/5G router, CPE, ONT/ONU, security gateway or other principal function | Catalogue, RF datasheet, architecture and manual |
| 8517.62.43 | Review only for controller/adaptor/bridge/router equipment designed to connect to ADP equipment | Enterprise cloud/controller management does not automatically change an AP into this heading | Routing/NAT/gateway architecture |
| 8517.62.59 / 69 / 99 | Only when the detailed product description supports a residual subheading | Do not use “other” as a safe default | Complete technical dossier and classification evidence |
DUTIES AND ORIGIN
| Item | Reference rate | Condition | Control point |
|---|---|---|---|
| MFN import duty | 0% reference | If HS 8517.62.51 is confirmed and MFN conditions are met | Verify the tariff in force on declaration date. |
| Ordinary import duty | 5% reference | Where MFN/FTA treatment is unavailable | Check Decision 15/2023/QD-TTg and amendments. |
| Import VAT | Budget at 10% | Use a reduced rate only after confirming the product is not excluded under the policy in force | Do not apply 8% by habit; review Decree 174/2025/ND-CP and customs guidance. |
| Special preferential duty | Potentially 0% under relevant FTAs | Valid C/O, origin rule, validity and consistent description | Where MFN is already 0%, the C/O may not reduce import duty but origin consistency remains important. |
Rates are planning references only. Confirm the final HS and tariff in force on the customs declaration date.
APPLICABLE SECTOR CONTROLS
From 1 July 2026, Circular 36/2026/TT-BKHCN is the central list. Map each model by frequency band and EIRP; products subject to multiple QCVNs must meet all applicable requirements.
| Product scenario | Potential policy/QCVN | Main file/procedure | Risk note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi; EIRP 60–200 mW | High risk; QCVN 54:2020/BTTTT + QCVN 112:2017/BTTTT | Conformity certification by a designated body; Method 3 or 7; conformity declaration; state quality inspection for imports | Lock the RF report, antenna gain and EIRP before ETA. QCVN 112 is declaration-only. |
| 5 GHz Wi-Fi; EIRP ≥60 mW | High risk; QCVN 65:2021/BTTTT + QCVN 112:2017/BTTTT | Certification, declaration and state quality inspection | Review 5150–5350, 5470–5725 and 5725–5850 MHz; “dual-band” is not sufficient evidence. |
| 6 GHz Wi-Fi; 5925–6425 MHz | High risk; QCVN 47:2015/BTTTT through 31 Dec 2026; QCVN 136:2025/BKHCN from 1 Jan 2027; QCVN 96:2015/BTTTT | Certification, declaration and state quality inspection | Build the certification/ETA timeline around the 2026–2027 transition. QCVN 96 is declaration-only. |
| 60 GHz short-range WLAN/WPAN | Medium risk; QCVN 88:2015/BTTTT + QCVN 112:2017/BTTTT | Certification or self-assessment as applicable; conformity declaration before market circulation | Excludes fixed outdoor LAN extension and fixed point-to-point 60 GHz links. |
| EIRP below 60 mW or non-standard configuration | Do not assume exemption | Recheck Appendix II, applicable QCVNs, frequency conditions and actual use | File-specific review is required. |
| LTE/5G, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Thread, GPS or other radio modules | Multiple QCVNs may apply simultaneously | Assess each integrated function and keep a model-level protocol/BOM matrix | Avoid duplicate testing where legally permitted, but do not omit applicable requirements. |
| Dedicated VPN/firewall/cryptographic function | Screen for civil cryptography/cybersecurity controls | A licence is relevant only when the product falls within the controlled list | Standard WPA2/WPA3 alone should not be treated as a definitive licensing trigger. |
| Used/refurbished units | Review Circular 26/2025/TT-BKHCN and exceptions | Do not process as new goods when within a prohibited used-IT category | Confirm condition, production year, serials and import purpose before purchase. |
LEGAL INSTRUMENTS TO REVIEW
| Type | Instrument | Issuer | Role | Review note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Law | Customs Law 2014, as amended | National Assembly | Customs filing, inspection, supervision and clearance | Apply by customs regime and declaration date. |
| Law | Law on Product and Goods Quality 2007, amended by Law 78/2025/QH15 | National Assembly | Importer quality obligations and risk-based controls | Material for 2026 implementation. |
| Decree | 37/2026/ND-CP | Government | Detailed implementation of product and goods quality law | Read with Circular 36 and quality inspection procedures. |
| Circular | 36/2026/TT-BKHCN | Ministry of Science and Technology | Risk lists, HS references, QCVNs and management measures | Effective 1 July 2026; replaces Circular 29/2025. |
| Circular | 14/2026/TT-BKHCN | Ministry of Science and Technology | Conformity declaration and assessment methods | Effective 25 May 2026; Methods 3 and 7 are central. |
| Circular | 26/2025/TT-BKHCN | Ministry of Science and Technology | Import of prohibited used IT products and specific exceptions | Separate review for used/refurbished goods. |
| Tariff | Decree 26/2023/ND-CP and amendments | Government | MFN import tariff | Check Chapter 85 / heading 8517 on declaration date. |
| Tax | Decision 15/2023/QD-TTg; Decree 174/2025/ND-CP | Prime Minister/Government | Ordinary duty and VAT reduction policy | Check HS and exclusion appendices. |
| Labelling | Decree 43/2017/ND-CP, Decree 111/2021/ND-CP and current quality rules | Government | Original/supplementary labels and market responsibility | Lock product name, model, origin and responsible importer. |
Official sources used for this update
- Circular 36/2026/TT-BKHCN – medium/high-risk product lists
- Circular 14/2026/TT-BKHCN – conformity declaration and assessment methods
- Decree 37/2026/ND-CP – product and goods quality administration
- Circular 26/2025/TT-BKHCN – controlled import of prohibited used IT products
- Decree 174/2025/ND-CP – VAT reduction policy and exclusions
- Decision 15/2023/QD-TTg – ordinary import tariff
CUSTOMS & COMPLIANCE DOCUMENT SET
Commercial documents normally include Invoice, Packing List, B/L or AWB, contract/PO, C/O where used, catalogue, datasheet and original-label photos. Sector documents may include RF reports, conformity certificate, manufacturer authorisation, import quality-inspection registration, conformity declaration, CR mark and special licences where triggered.
| File group | Required evidence | Used for | Typical owner | Common error | Pre-ETA check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial documents | Invoice, Packing List, B/L or AWB, contract/PO | Customs declaration, value and quantity | Supplier/importer/forwarder | Model, quantity, Incoterms or origin mismatch | Cross-check each model before transport documents are issued |
| Technical dossier | Catalogue, datasheet, manual, RF spec, antenna gain, EIRP, protocol list | HS, policy, QCVN and technical explanation | Manufacturer/importer | Marketing sheet lacks controlled RF data | Lock the correct hardware/firmware revision |
| Conformity evidence | Test reports, certificate, manufacturer authorisation where used | Certification/declaration and quality inspection | Manufacturer/importer/certification body | Expired certificate; wrong model; Method 7 used for another lot | Verify holder, scope, QCVN, method, validity and model list |
| Import quality inspection | Registration and shipment-specific evidence | Clearance of high-risk configurations | Importer/customs broker | Filed after ETA or with wrong receiving authority | Confirm portal, account and procedure before shipment |
| C/O | Electronic/paper C/O and supporting origin documents | Preferential treatment and origin evidence | Exporter/importer | Wrong form, criterion, invoice reference, description or HS | Pre-check draft before issuance |
| Labelling/market release | Original label photos, Vietnamese supplementary label, CR mark and user instructions | Post-clearance market release | Importer/brand owner | Missing model, origin, responsible party or CR mark | Approve artwork before delivery to warehouse |
DECISION GATES THAT MAY HOLD THE SHIPMENT
| Decision gate | Question | Evidence | Consequence | Recommended control |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Identity and HS | Is it truly a standalone WLAN access point? | Catalogue, architecture, ports and manual | Wrong HS and wrong policy path | Create a one-page technical classification memo before booking |
| Bands/EIRP | Which bands and EIRP values apply to each model? | RF report, antenna gain and datasheet | QCVNs and risk category cannot be determined | Obtain a model-by-model RF matrix |
| Certification method | Method 3 or 7, and is the certificate valid for this shipment? | Certificate, authorisation and model list | Rejection or retesting | Never reuse a Method 7 certificate for another lot |
| Quality inspection | High-risk or medium-risk line under Circular 36? | Circular 36 mapping and RF data | Missing or unnecessary procedure | Map every model before ETA |
| Document consistency | Do model, quantity, origin and name match 100%? | Invoice, PL, B/L, catalogue, label and certificate | Yellow/red channel queries and amendments | Use one controlled master model list |
| C/O and tax | Is the C/O valid and economically relevant? | C/O, invoice, transport docs and tariff | Loss of preference or origin query | Check origin even where MFN is 0% |
| Label and CR mark | Is the post-clearance release plan ready? | Artwork, declaration/certificate and product photos | Goods cannot be lawfully released to market | Lock label content and application point before warehouse delivery |
PRACTICAL E2E PROCESS
Confirm product identity and HS before booking
Collect the controlled catalogue, RF datasheet, manual, original label and architecture. Distinguish the AP from router, modem, CPE, ONT/ONU, bridge and security gateway; lock the declaration description and new/used condition.
Build a model-level RF/QCVN matrix
Record 2.4/5/6/60 GHz bands, channels, EIRP, antenna gain, Wi-Fi standard and integrated modules. Map each model to Circular 36 and identify high or medium risk.
Select testing and certification strategy
Define applicable QCVNs, qualified laboratory, Method 3 or 7, certificate holder and use of manufacturer certificates. Do not reuse Method 7 evidence for a different lot.
Prepare quality-inspection and conformity files
For high-risk goods, prepare the import quality-inspection route and conformity declaration file. Confirm the actual portal, receiving authority, digital account and file format before ETA.
Freeze commercial documents and C/O
Match product name, model, quantity, serials, origin, manufacturer, invoice reference and transport documents. Pre-check the C/O and avoid generic descriptions.
File customs declaration and manage channeling
Green channel does not remove importer liability; yellow checks documents; red may inspect goods. Keep an HS–RF–QCVN–certificate explanation pack ready.
Complete post-clearance obligations before sale
Complete conformity declaration, CR marking, Vietnamese labels, instructions and lot records. Release to market only after applicable conditions are satisfied.
PRE-ETA RISK CHECKLIST
| Risk | Consequence | Preventive action | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Using Circular 29/2025 as the current basis | Incorrect legal basis after 1 July 2026 | Use Circular 36/2026 and assess transitional rules | Legacy certificates/declarations and filing dates |
| No controlled RF data | QCVN/risk/inspection cannot be determined | Obtain bands, EIRP, antenna gain and test evidence | RF datasheet/test report |
| Method 7 certificate from another lot | Certificate is not valid for the shipment | Check method, lot, holder and models | Certificate and authorisation |
| Model mismatch across documents | Amendments, queries and delay | Lock a master model list before shipping | All commercial and compliance documents |
| Ignoring the 6 GHz 2026/2027 transition | Wrong QCVN/testing route | Plan certification and ETA around 1 Jan 2027 | RF spec, certificate plan and ETA |
| Treating refurbished goods as new | Possible prohibited import | Obtain condition statement, year and serials | Contract, invoice and serial list |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does an Access Point require an import licence?
There is no reliable yes/no answer from the trade name alone. Standard Wi-Fi APs are usually driven by HS, QCVN, conformity and quality-inspection requirements; dedicated cryptography, cellular modules, unusual bands, used condition or special purposes require additional screening.
Is state quality inspection mandatory?
Yes for models mapped to high-risk lines in Appendix I of Circular 36/2026, including qualifying 2.4, 5 and 6 GHz configurations. The 60 GHz line shown as medium risk follows the declaration-before-market route. Map the exact model.
Does HS 8517.62.51 cover every Wi-Fi transmitter?
No. It is a reference for wireless LAN equipment. Routers, modems, CPEs, ONT/ONUs, security gateways and other principal functions may classify elsewhere.
Can the importer use the manufacturer’s conformity certificate?
Potentially, when it is valid, covers the model and method, and is supported by a proper authorisation. A Method 7 certificate is shipment-specific and cannot be used for another lot.
What is special about Wi-Fi 6E/7?
Check whether 5925–6425 MHz is enabled. Circular 36 transitions from QCVN 47 through 31 December 2026 to QCVN 136 from 1 January 2027, so the certification and ETA timeline matters.
Are Vietnamese labels and the CR mark required?
Imported goods released in Vietnam must comply with labelling rules; products subject to conformity declaration must use the conformity mark as required. The exact content and timing depend on the file.
Are samples and warranty replacements exempt?
Not automatically. Review customs regime, quantity, purpose, market circulation and sector requirements before shipment.
What if the invoice model differs by one character?
Treat it as a compliance mismatch. Correct documents before issuance where possible; otherwise prepare formal manufacturer evidence and assess amendment options before declaration.
RELATED ARTICLES
TGIMEX SOLUTIONS
TGIMEX reviews each Access Point model against HS, RF data, Circular 36/2026, conformity evidence, quality inspection, C/O and labelling rather than relying on a generic “Wi-Fi device” conclusion.
HS, risk category, bands, EIRP, QCVNs, used-goods and origin review.
Invoice, PL, B/L/AWB, catalogue, RF report, certificate, label and model matrix.
International transport, ETA tracking, inspection filing, customs and inland delivery.
Conformity declaration, CR marking, Vietnamese label and lot-record retention.
For Wi-Fi 6/6E/7 models, multi-radio devices or manufacturer certificates shared across importers, start the review before shipment.
This is an operational reference translation, not an official legal translation. Updated through 29 July 2026. Application depends on the actual product file and instruments in force on the declaration date.
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