Import Procedure Guide for Bluetooth Module

Wi‑Fi Module / Bluetooth Module / Zigbee / NFC / SRD Module Group

IMPORT PROCEDURE GUIDE FOR BLUETOOTH MODULE

Bluetooth module is a short-range wireless data transceiver module, commonly operating in the 2.4 GHz band and integrated into PCBs, IoT devices, control equipment, audio devices or industrial systems. For import clearance, the key risk is not merely the word “module”; it is whether the item is treated as radio transmission/reception equipment, ICT Group-2 goods, and whether testing, conformity certification/declaration, civil cryptography, battery, adapter or used-goods controls are triggered.

If the description or technical file is incomplete, the shipment may be classified under the wrong HS code, held for specialized inspection, required to supplement test reports, denied preferential C/O treatment, or incur DEM/DET and post-clearance explanation risks. This article provides an E2E (End-to-End) review map before ETA.

Reference HS8517.62.59 – other transmission apparatus incorporating reception
Policy focusICT Group 2, Bluetooth 2.4 GHz, conformity if listed
Lock before ETAModel, frequency, power, antenna, datasheet, test report, C/O

QUICK FACTS

ItemReview directionOperational note
Product nameBluetooth module / Bluetooth transceiver moduleAvoid generic wording such as “electronic module” if the datasheet confirms radio transmission and reception.
Reference HS code8517.62.59 – other transmission apparatus incorporating receptionMay differ if the item is an IC, a spare part, an incomplete board, a combo module or a finished device.
Indicative dutiesMFN 0%; ordinary duty 5%; VAT 10%Special preferential duty depends on a valid C/O and the applicable FTA tariff schedule.
Specialized policyReview ICT Group-2 goods, Bluetooth 2.4 GHz, conformity certification/declaration if listedDo not conclude that no permit is required without checking model, frequency, output power and technical files.
Technical fileCatalogue, datasheet, user manual, label photos, model list and test report if availableProduct name, model, origin, frequency and power must match across all documents.
Legal note: This is an operational import review framework for Bluetooth module. It must be checked against the actual catalogue, datasheet, model and import purpose; it is not automatically applicable to Wi‑Fi modules, Zigbee, NFC, other SRD modules or finished devices incorporating Bluetooth.
Illustration for Import Procedure Guide for Bluetooth Module
Illustration of the product group and document review before customs clearance.

SCOPE OF APPLICATION

Covered products

Bluetooth Classic/BLE modules in PCB/module form, with built-in or external antenna, UART/SPI/I2C/USB interface, used for short-range wireless data transmission between a host device and peripherals.

Excluded variants

This guide does not automatically apply to Wi‑Fi modules, Zigbee, NFC, other SRD modules, finished IoT devices, gateways, finished beacons, Bluetooth headphones/speakers, remote controllers, standalone Bluetooth ICs or multifunction control boards.

Rule: New goods, used goods, refurbished goods, samples, warranty items, project goods, EPE/FDI imports, and modules packed with batteries/adapters/development kits may trigger different controls.

PRODUCT CLASSIFICATION & IDENTIFICATION

The review must clarify the main function as short-range wireless data transmission/reception, frequency band, Bluetooth version, output power/EIRP, antenna type, connection interface, supply voltage, firmware, security/encryption function, condition of goods and import purpose.

Technical criterionDocuments to compareRisk if misdescribedSuggested description
Main functionCatalogue, datasheet, user manualMisclassification as IC, control board or finished equipmentBluetooth module, model…, for short-range wireless data transmission
Bluetooth standardDatasheet, RF specificationInsufficient basis for QCVN/testing reviewBluetooth 5.x/BLE module, 2.4 GHz, brand new
Frequency / power / antennaRF test report, datasheet, product photosUnable to determine conformity and radio controlsState band, output power or EIRP when supported by technical files
Physical formProduct photos, labels, BOM if neededConfusing a complete module with an IC or spare partPCB/module-type Bluetooth transceiver with integrated/external antenna
AccessoriesPacking list, kit photosBattery/adapter/antenna/demo kit may trigger separate policiesSeparate accessories by line item if their nature or HS differs
ConditionInvoice, contract, brand-new declaration, serial listUsed/refurbished risk under used ICT goods policyBrand new, unused

HS CODE – DUTY – C/O

For a Bluetooth module that receives and transmits wireless data, the HS review usually starts from heading 8517. Where the module is other transmission apparatus incorporating reception and is not specifically described as wireless LAN, router, gateway or another specific device, HS 8517.62.59 may be used as a reference. The final HS code must be based on actual catalogue, datasheet, construction and import documents.

Reference HS codeWhen applicableRisk if incorrectDocuments to check
8517.62.59Bluetooth module with wireless data transmission/reception function, other transmission apparatus incorporating receptionWrong HS may affect duty, specialized policy, C/O and post-clearance reviewCatalogue, RF datasheet, product photos, model list, test report
8517.62.51Only if the module is technically a WLAN/wireless LAN or Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth combo moduleMisclassifying a single-function Bluetooth module as wireless LANDatasheet showing Wi‑Fi/WLAN, IEEE 802.11 and 2.4/5/6 GHz bands
8517.79.xxOnly if the item is a part/spare part of 8517 apparatus, not a complete transceiver moduleTreating an operational module as a spare partBOM and technical function of the module
8542.xxOnly if the item is a standalone Bluetooth IC/chip, not a complete moduleConfusing IC with finished moduleIC datasheet, package, pinout and product photos
Other headingsFor control boards, remote control devices, beacons, finished equipment or products with another principal functionWrong principal function classificationFinished product catalogue and operating principle
Duty / preferenceIndicative rateConditionControl note
MFN import duty0%If HS 8517.62.59 applies and the MFN tariff remains unchanged at declaration dateRecheck the tariff schedule at customs declaration date.
Ordinary import duty5%Where ordinary duty treatment appliesCheck Decision 15/2023/QD-TTg and any amendments.
VAT10%For goods not subject to 0% or 5% VATCheck VAT policy at import date.
FTA special dutyPossibly 0%Only with valid C/O and applicable FTA tariffDo not assume preference if C/O form, origin criterion, description or HS is inconsistent.
C/O checkpointHow to reviewCommon riskPre-ETA control
C/O formMatch the agreement and exporting countryWrong form or inapplicable agreementAsk for draft C/O before cargo arrival.
DescriptionShould show Bluetooth module, model, brand, quantity and originGeneric wording such as “electronic parts”Unify wording across Invoice, Packing List and C/O.
HS codeCompare C/O HS with Vietnam declaration HSDifferent 6/8-digit HS or vague descriptionPrepare function explanation and catalogue.
Origin criterionCheck WO, PE, RVC, CTH/CTSH or product-specific rulesIncorrect origin criterion or missing transit proofConfirm origin criterion with supplier before issuance.

APPLICABLE SPECIALIZED POLICIES

Goods scenarioPossible policyDocuments to checkAuthority / portal if identifiableRecommended timingRisk note
Bluetooth module 2.4 GHzICT Group-2 review; conformity certification/declaration if HS and description are listedDatasheet, RF specification, test report, frequency, power, antennaSector authority / designated testing and certification bodies; online portals if availableBefore ETA, ideally before PO confirmationDo not conclude exemption without model and technical parameters.
Wi‑Fi + Bluetooth combo moduleAdditional QCVN review for Wi‑Fi 2.4/5/6 GHz may ariseCombo datasheet, IEEE 802.11 standards, bands, EIRPDesignated testing/certification bodyBefore order placementMultiple wireless technologies may require multiple test reports.
Security/encryption functionsCivil cryptography or cybersecurity review if functions fall under controlled listsSecurity datasheet, encryption features, firmware, user manualRelevant sector authorityBefore bookingStandard Bluetooth protocol encryption is not automatically a civil cryptography product, but must be reviewed case by case.
Battery/adapter/demo kit includedBattery, adapter, labeling or electrical safety policies may arisePacking list, product photos, accessory specificationsCustoms/sector authorityBefore ETAAccessories may need separate HS lines.
Used/refurbished goodsReview used ICT goods prohibitions/restrictionsInvoice, serial photos, brand-new declarationCustoms/sector authorityBefore purchaseHigh risk if goods cannot be proven brand-new.
Samples/warranty/project/EPE/FDIPolicy depends on import purpose and customs regimeContract/PO, project documents, purpose of useManaging customs office / sector authorityBefore ETADo not automatically apply trading-goods procedure.

LEGAL DOCUMENTS TO REVIEW

Document groupDocument name/numberIssuing bodyEffective timingRoleKey pointReview note
LawCustoms Law 2014National AssemblyCheck current validityCustoms declaration, inspection and supervisionCustoms operationsGeneral basis for import procedures.
LawLaw on Product and Goods Quality 2007; Law on Standards and Technical Regulations 2006National AssemblyCheck amendmentsBasis for Group-2 goods, conformity certification/declarationImplementing documentsApplicable if the module is subject to quality control.
CircularCircular 29/2025/TT-BKHCNMinistry of Science and TechnologyIssued 13 Nov 2025; effective 31 Dec 2025ICT and telecommunications Group-2 goods listArticles 1, 3, 4; Appendices I/IIApplies only when both HS code and product description match the list.
QCVNQCVN 54:2020/BTTTT and other QCVNs depending on wireless technologySector ministryDepends on frequency, power and technologyTechnical basis for testing/conformityScope of each QCVNDo not assign QCVNs without datasheet.
TariffDecree 26/2023/ND-CPGovernmentEffective from 15 Jul 2023; check amendmentsMFN import tariffChapter 85, heading 8517Check at declaration date.
Ordinary tariffDecision 15/2023/QD-TTgPrime MinisterEffective from 15 Jul 2023Ordinary import dutyOrdinary tariff appendixUsed when MFN/FTA is not applicable.
VATVAT Law 2024National AssemblyEffective from 01 Jul 2025Import VAT basis10% standard rate where not 0% or 5%Check implementing guidance.
LabelingDecree 43/2017/ND-CP and Decree 111/2021/ND-CPGovernmentCheck current validityOriginal label and Vietnamese supplemental labelMandatory label informationCheck product name, model, origin and responsible entity.
Civil cryptography / cybersecurityDecree 58/2016/ND-CP and relevant sector documentsGovernment / sector authoritiesReview by actual functionPermit review if encryption/security functions are controlledControlled product list if applicableOnly conclude after reviewing security datasheet.
Used ICT goodsCircular 11/2018/TT-BTTTT and related documentsMinistry of Information and CommunicationsCheck current validityUsed ICT import restriction/prohibition reviewUsed ICT goods listImportant for refurbished/used goods.

VIEW / DOWNLOAD OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS

Enterprises should search by document number on official legal portals, the Government portal or the issuing authority’s website. Do not rely only on screenshots or tariff tables without update dates.

Enterprises should cross-check on official legal portals or the issuing authority’s website before application.

CUSTOMS CLEARANCE DOCUMENT SET

Commercial documents

Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading/Air Waybill, Sales Contract/Purchase Order if available, C/O for duty preference, catalogue/datasheet, product photos, original label, model/serial list.

Specialized documents if triggered

Quality inspection registration, conformity certificate, declaration of conformity, test report, technical documents, labeling file and civil cryptography/cybersecurity file if controlled functions are present.

Document groupRequired documentUsed forPrepared byCommon errorPre-ETA check
CommercialInvoice, Packing List, Contract/PODeclaration, value, quantity and originImporter, shipper, purchasingWrong model, missing brand/originCompare each line with datasheet and label.
TransportB/L or AWB, arrival notice, pre-alertD/O, manifest and ETA follow-upForwarder, agent, carrier/airlineWrong consignee, packages or weightLock transport data before ETA.
TechnicalCatalogue, datasheet, RF specification, user manual, model listHS and policy classificationManufacturer, supplier, complianceMissing frequency, power, antenna or Bluetooth versionRequest official datasheet for exact model.
Conformity / qualityTest report, conformity certificate/declaration if applicableSpecialized inspection / circulationImporter, testing/certification bodyReport not matching model or frequencyCompare model, hardware and firmware if available.
Duty / C/OC/O, tariff reference, origin explanation if neededSpecial preferential dutyShipper, importer, docsWrong form, HS or origin criterionCheck draft C/O before departure/arrival.
Data matching rule: Product name, quantity, model, serial, origin, frequency, output power and technical specifications must match across commercial documents, catalogue, labels, specialized files and customs declaration.

DECISION POINTS THAT MAY HOLD THE SHIPMENT

Decision pointQuestion to answerEvidenceConsequence if unclearRecommended handling
HS basisIs it a complete transceiver module, an IC or a part?Datasheet, photos, model listHS query, channel change, reassessmentPrepare function-based HS explanation.
ICT Group-2 statusDo HS and description match the controlled list?Circular 29/2025, datasheet, test reportSpecialized inspection holdReview before ETA.
Radio import permitIs it a component or an independently operating radio transceiver?Catalogue, user manual, accessoriesPermit/explanation requestCheck model against permit list.
C/O validityAre form, origin criterion, description, HS and invoice correct?Draft C/O, Invoice, Packing ListPreference deniedReview draft C/O before ETA.
LabelingDoes label show model, origin and manufacturer/importer information?Label photos, packing photosSupplemental labeling requestPrepare Vietnamese label before circulation.
Goods conditionBrand-new, refurbished or used?Invoice, serial photos, declarationUsed ICT goods riskLock brand-new condition in PO/contract.

PRACTICAL E2E PROCESS

Step 1: Pre-ETA review

Lock HS, ICT Group-2 policy, permit if any, duties, C/O, labeling and goods condition.

Step 2: Freeze documents and technical files

Cross-check Invoice, Packing List, B/L/AWB, catalogue, datasheet, model list, label photos and RF specification.

Step 3: Register specialized procedures if triggered

Prepare quality inspection, conformity certification/declaration, test report or permit documents based on actual model.

Step 4: Lodge customs declaration

Describe the product by function; prepare explanation for HS, value, model, C/O and specialized policy.

Step 5: Clear and deliver cargo

Monitor clearance, move cargo to warehouse, check supplemental labels and keep specialized results.

Step 6: Post-clearance file retention

Archive HS, C/O, test report, conformity and technical evidence for audit readiness.

PRE-ETA RISK CHECKLIST

RiskConsequencePre-ETA controlDocument to check
Generic product nameWrong HS and policy queryState Bluetooth module, model, Bluetooth version, frequency and functionInvoice, Packing List, datasheet
Missing RF datasheetUnable to determine QCVN and conformity scopeRequest official datasheet before bookingDatasheet, RF specification
Incorrect C/O form or descriptionFTA preference deniedReview draft C/O before issuanceC/O draft, Invoice, Packing List
Model mismatchSpecialized file/test report mismatchFreeze model list before ETAModel list, label, catalogue
Used/refurbished not reviewedUsed ICT goods policy riskRequire brand-new declaration and serial photosContract, Invoice, packing photos
Accessories not separatedWrong HS or extra policiesSeparate accessories where necessaryPacking List, accessory specs

FAQ

QuestionBrief answer
Does importing a Bluetooth module require an import permit?It depends on model, function and whether the module is treated as an independently operating radio transceiver. Review the actual file.
Is quality inspection/conformity required?It may be required if HS and product description fall under the ICT Group-2 list. Check Circular 29/2025/TT-BKHCN and applicable QCVNs.
Is HS 8517.62.59 always correct?No. It is a reference for certain wireless data transceiver modules; ICs, spare parts, kits or finished devices may differ.
Is Vietnamese supplemental labeling required?If the goods are circulated in Vietnam, labeling requirements should be reviewed. Label data must match model and origin.
Can C/O reduce import duty?Possibly, if the FTA tariff provides a preference and the C/O is valid in form, origin criterion, description and transport route.
Are samples or warranty goods treated like commercial goods?Not automatically. Samples/warranty/project/EPE/FDI imports require separate customs regime and policy review.
What if Invoice model differs from datasheet?Ask the supplier to correct documents or issue an official model matching statement before declaration.

TGIMEX EXECUTION SUPPORT

This article provides a map of HS code, duty, documentation and specialized policy for Bluetooth module. In real shipments, each enterprise still needs a model-based review of catalogue, datasheet, documents, origin, accessories and import purpose.

With an agency network in more than 60 countries, WCA, WCA China Global, VLA and HNLA memberships, and capabilities in ocean freight, air freight, road/rail transport, customs clearance, C/O, import permits, warehousing and domestic delivery, TGIMEX can help control compliance risk from the preparation stage.

Pre-ETA review

HS, specialized policy, C/O, duty, labeling, catalogue, datasheet and model check.

Compliance file control

Cross-check Invoice, Packing List, B/L/AWB, C/O, test reports, labels and technical documents.

International logistics

Coordinate agents, carriers and airlines, follow ETA, pre-alerts and transport documents.

Customs & post-clearance

Prepare declaration, handle Green/Yellow/Red channels and retain post-clearance evidence.

Recommendation: For shipments likely to involve specialized inspection, permits, C/O or labeling requirements, enterprises should not wait until arrival to start compliance review. Small inconsistencies between Invoice, Packing List, catalogue, datasheet, C/O or labels may delay clearance and create unplanned storage costs.

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