How To Get Import License In USA - Requirements & Application

More and more businesses have started to import items to the US from abroad, such as importing from China.

The US is one of the largest importers of goods globally, and as of December 2021, the imports of goods increased by $5.2 billion, totaling up to $259.7 billion.¹

However, as imports and international trade increase, import export businesses must consider import fees and import license requirements depending on the products. 

That’s why using financial services that decrease international costs is crucial. Same goes for ensuring that the business meets import license requirements and has the correct documentation. 

This article will help break down the import license process, including how to get an import license in the USA and how to apply for an import license if your business requires it. 

What is an import license?

An import license or import permit is documentation that proves that you’re allowed to import certain kinds of items into the US. 

Most imported goods don’t require a permit or license, but depending on the product, certain federal or state agencies may need you to have an import license or import permit for your business.² 

Part of the guidance around how to start an import business in the USA is to look at rules and regulations for the specific items you want to import.

How to get an import license in the USA?

The process for applying for an import license will differ based on the type of product being imported and the agencies that regulate it. 

Specific commodities that require an import license³:

Whether or not you’ll need an import license will depend on the type of products you intend to import.

So who needs an import license? Not all products require an import license, except for specific commodities like the ones listed below.  

However, this is not an exhaustive list, so it’s always good to double-check official government sites.

Agricultural commodities

Food products can be imported into the United States as long as the facilities where the products or stored or handled are registered with the FDA and the FDA is notified prior to shipments entering the United States.³⁻⁴

However, some agricultural products do require an import license, such as the ones listed below:

• Cheese, milk, and dairy products
• Fruits, vegetables, and nuts
• Livestock and animals
• Meat, poultry, and egg products
• Plants and plant products
• Tobacco

To import products like the ones above, importers will need to obtain a permit through the Foreign Agricultural Service using Form FAS-923 Certification Required to Apply for Dairy Import License.⁵

Consumer Products

• Household appliances - must comply with US safety and energy conservation standards.
• Commercial and industrial equipment must comply with US energy performance standards.

The above-mentioned items can only be imported if they have undergone Department of Energy test procedures and obtained a certified ratings.

The certification reports need to be submitted to the Department of Energy prior to importing, and all records need to be maintained in case the department asks for them at a later date.⁶ 

Certifications can be submitted to the Department of Energy’s Compliance Certification Management System (CCMS).⁷

If your items are not on the published list and you’re still unsure, you can always contact CBP for further information or specific agencies in charge of regulating the items. 

Import license requirements

Import license requirements differ based on regulating agency requirements.

• For example, agricultural commodities like dairy and cheese will need a permit through the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).⁸ 
• You will also need to contact local ports of entry, i.e., where your product will be entering the US from, for any import requirements they may have. 
• Additionally, any goods entering the US must have evidence to prove that a bond has been posted with the CBP. The customs bond is used to cover duties, taxes, or charges that could potentially be levied on the items.² 

Even if items don’t require an import license, commercial imports still need to fill out CBP entry forms within 15 calendar days from when a shipment arrives at a US port.³

Please note that this information is only meant for general purposes to aid with compliance, but it does not constitute legal advice. You can also reach out to CBP import specialists such as licensed customs brokers, attorneys, or consultants to help facilitate the process.

How much does an import license cost in the USA?

The next step in becoming an importer in the USA is looking at costs associated with import permits in the USA. 

There are no standard fees or costs related to import licenses as most agencies have different requirements. 

For example, importers bringing in fish and wildlife will need an import export license from the  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which costs about $100.⁹ 

However, other agencies may have different requirements or fees, so it’s always best to check with them individually before starting the import process.

It’s also important to factor in additional costs associated with importing, such as shipping and logistics fees as well. 

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Other important things to know when importing to the USA

Aside from the agency-specific licenses discussed above, no imports or permits are needed for importing items into the US. 

An important consideration to bear in mind is taxes, tariffs, and other costs associated with the items that you’re importing.

For example, even if you don’t need an import license or permit, you may still be liable for import tax and other payments such as outstanding shipping invoices.

However, importers need to think about other paperwork that may be required, such as Import Security Filing (ISF), also known as 10+2, with the shipment¹⁰. 

The ISF must be submitted at least 24 hours before any items are loaded onto shipping containers or vessels going to the US. Without the ISF, CBP may issue damages for violations that importers are liable for.

The ISF contains essential information for the CBP, such as¹⁰:

• Who the seller is
• Who the buyer is
• Importer of record number / FTZ applicant identification number
• Consignee number(s)
• Manufacturer (or supplier)
• Ship to party
• Country of origin
• Commodity Harmonized Tariff Schedule 
• Container stuffing location
• Consolidator

Importers are required to provide this information before items leave for the US. However, additional data may be needed depending on the type of cargo, such as transit cargo. 

If you are unsure about what information is necessary to include before importing items, it’s always best to check with corresponding agencies that regulate the items or a private sector expert, as mentioned above.

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All sources checked 23 March 2022