In the context of increasing global integration, the Certificate of Free Sale (CFS) is one of the key requirements for enterprises to export medical devices to international markets. For Class C and D medical devices – which are considered medium-high and high-risk – obtaining a CFS not only ensures compliance with Vietnamese regulations but also strengthens credibility and competitiveness abroad.
1. CFS application process
- Step 1: Submit the application online via the Ministry of Health’s Public Service Portal (https://dichvucong.moh.gov.vn) or the Medical Device Management Portal (https://imda.moh.gov.vn).
- Step 2: Within 3 working days, if the application is incomplete, the Department of Infrastructure and Medical Devices will request amendments.
- Step 3: If valid, the CFS will be issued within 3 working days. In case of rejection, the Ministry of Health will provide written reasons.
Site inspections may be conducted if documentation is insufficient or non-compliance is suspected.
2. Required documents
- Application for issuance of CFS (Form No. 07, Circular 19/2021/TT-BYT).
- Certificate of Quality Compliance issued by an accredited conformity assessment body, valid throughout the registration process.
Documents must be submitted in originals or certified copies.
3. Processing time and fee
- Processing time: 3 working days from receipt of valid dossier.
- Fee: VND 1,000,000 per application (as regulated under Circular 59/2023/TT-BTC).
- Unlimited copies of CFS may be issued upon request.
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4. Applicable entities and authority
Enterprises, foreign-invested companies, organizations, cooperatives, and foreign entities exporting Class C and D medical devices.
The competent authority: Department of Infrastructure and Medical Devices – Ministry of Health.
5. Legal basis
- Decree No. 98/2021/ND-CP and its amendments (07/2023/ND-CP, 96/2023/ND-CP, 148/2025/ND-CP).
- Circulars 19/2021/TT-BYT and 10/2023/TT-BYT.
- Circular 59/2023/TT-BTC on medical sector fees and charges.
6. Importance of CFS for enterprises
A CFS provides:
- International recognition of product quality.
- Competitive advantage in bidding and contracting.
- Market expansion, particularly in countries requiring CFS for imports.
MEDGATE – a leading consultancy in medical device registration in Vietnam – supports enterprises with professional services to shorten processing time, minimize risks, and focus on core business activities.
📞 For consultation on medical device registration, licensing procedures, and quotation, please contact:
- Hotline: +84 98 546 1894
- Email: medgatevn@gmail.com