Antiquities → Vietnam

Antiquities may require documentation or declaration

Details

Antiquities trade is governed by both domestic cultural property laws and international agreements, including the 1970 UNESCO Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Prope. Enforcement in Vietnam carries fines from VND 1,000,000 to VND 100,000,000 under Customs Law 2014; Government Decree 128/2020; Criminal Code Art. 188 (typical personal cases are handled as civil infringements).

Documentation required

• Documentation may be required

Leaving with this item

Export of Vietnamese cultural heritage relics is prohibited under the Law on Cultural Heritage 2001 (amended 2009). State-classified relics may not depart without Ministry of Culture permit.

Practical advice

Carry documentation. Declare proactively at customs. If unsure, declare on arrival — declared goods at worst attract duty or surrender, while undeclared goods found in screening are seized and fined.

Customs authority

General Department of Vietnam Customs (GDVC) · https://www.customs.gov.vn