What is import approval?
(for vehicles, air rifles and other restricted goods)
imort approval is a formal permission from the destination country’s government authorities to import specific categories of goods subject to special regulation. Import approval varies by country but is frequently required for:
- Vehicles — most countries require pre-approval, including compliance with local safety and emissions standards
- Air rifles and other firearms — import of any firearm requires prior import permission from the destination country’s firearms authority
- Certain prescription medications — particularly controlled substances
- Plants and seeds — may require a phytosanitary certificate and prior approval
Also known as: Import permit, import license
PSS Tip: Start the import approval process for restricted goods as early as possible — ideally at least three months before your intended move date. Some approvals can take weeks or months to process.
