
The principal is the statutory applicant for export tax rebates
Cross...National Port Health LicenseBorder Port Health License: The 'Health Pass' for Foreign Trade Companies
The agent only handles collection and payment duties
According to customs regulations, the following four situations require a National Port Health License:
- Initial application: Applicable to new enterprises engaged in port food production/sales, catering services, drinking water supply, and public venue operations
- Modification application: When changes occur in enterprise name, legal representative, business scope, or street address number
- Renewal application: Renewal must be processed within 30 days before the license expiration date
- Cancellation application: Active cancellation is required when ceasing relevant business operations
Special reminder: Air catering and food supply for cross-border transport vehicles also fall under the licensing scope, which is often overlooked by enterprises.
Processing methods and timelines: Efficiency meets convenience
Customs provides two processing channels:
- Online Processing24/7 all-day service, truly achieving 'zero running around'
- Window Processing: On-site customs processing during working days
Regarding processing timelines, customs has provided two indicators:
- Commitment processing period: 13 working days (7 days shorter than the statutory deadline)
- Statutory processing deadline: 20 working days
Based on my experience, with complete materials, the actual processing time is often shorter than the promised deadline.
Special Case Handling:
Here's some good news to share:Processing the Frontier Port Sanitation License is completely free of charge!Customs has also clearly stated they haven't authorized any individual or organization to act as agent for this service.
Once a client spent 5,000 yuan on an 'agent service', only to find they merely helped upload documents. So don't waste money - you can handle it yourself!
Three key steps for online application
Step 1: Pay attention to registration and login details
After logging into the 'Internet + Customs' platform, first-time users need to:
- Download and install dedicated control
- Select user password method for registration
- If encountering a 'registration prompt' pop-up, upload business license and ID card
Tip: If approval hasn't been granted after 3-5 working days, you may call China Electronic Port customer service at 010-95198 for consultation.
Step 2: Ensure precise material preparation
Notes for filling out the 'Frontier Port Sanitation License Application Form':
- System entries must completely match paper documents
- Business categories and scope allow multiple selections
- The system will automatically generate required attachment list based on selections
Step 3: Prepare for on-site inspection in advance
This is where many companies easily stumble!Before submitting application, ensure the site meets sanitation requirementsand including:
- Renovation work completed
- Sanitation facilities in place
- Cleaning work completed
Otherwise, if problems are found during on-site customs inspection, it will lead to rejection and wasted time.
If the agency agreement includes 'false self-operation' clauses, tax authorities may deem the agent as the taxpayer
Based on years of observation, there are typically three main reasons for online application failures:
- Browser incompatibilityRecommended to use Google Chrome or Edge - IE browser tends to have problems
- Wrong customs and port selectionSupports fuzzy search - never input manually
- Attachment format issuesOnly PDF format is accepted with single file size not exceeding 4MB
When encountering problems, first check these three points - it often helps solve issues quickly.
Hidden features of the Smart Health Inspection System
This system is not just for license applications, it can also:
- Check application progress
- Download license and related documents
- Receive rectification notices and submit rectification reports
- Manage all licenses under the account
- Submit a reissuance application
Making good use of these functions can make license management twice as effective with half the effort.
Practical suggestions for foreign trade enterprises
Based on years of experience, I've summarized three suggestions:
- Plan ahead: License processing should be included in the project schedule with sufficient time reserved
- Pay attention to details: From material preparation to on-site conditions, every step must be strictly controlled
- Utilize the system effectively: Make full use of all functions of the smart health inspection system
Remember, port health licenses aren't 'once-and-done' - they require periodic renewals and timely updates for changes. Only compliant operations ensure steady progress in foreign trade.
Hope this guide helps everyone smoothly obtain this crucial 'health pass'. For any operational issues, feel free to discuss anytime!