Electronic Thermometer Import Procedures – HS Codes, Duties, and Medical Device Regulations

Electronic Thermometer Import Procedures – HS Codes, Duties, and Medical Device Regulations

Electronic Thermometer Import Procedures – HS Codes, Duties, and Medical Device Regulations

Posted on: 14/01/2026

Electronic thermometers are widely used medical devices for measuring body temperature and environmental temperature in households, hospitals, clinics, schools, and factories. With increasing demand for healthcare products in Vietnam, electronic thermometers such as infrared thermometers, contact digital thermometers, forehead thermometers, and ear thermometers are imported in large quantities. As electronic thermometers are classified as medical devices, importers must comply with specific regulations issued by the Ministry of Health. This article provides a detailed guide to electronic thermometer import procedures.

Electronic thermometer

1. What Is an Electronic Thermometer? Is It Allowed for Import?

An electronic thermometer is a device that measures temperature using electronic sensors or infrared technology and displays results digitally. Common types include:

  • Contact digital thermometers

  • Infrared forehead thermometers

  • Infrared ear thermometers

  • Multi-purpose electronic thermometers

Electronic thermometers are allowed for import, but they are classified as medical devices and must comply with Ministry of Health regulations.

2. HS Codes for Electronic Thermometers

2.1 Common HS Codes

  • HS 9025.19.19 Electronic and infrared thermometers

  • HS 9025.11.00 Liquid-filled thermometers (less common for electronic products)

2.2 How to Determine the Correct HS Code

HS classification depends on:

  • Measurement principle (contact or infrared)

  • Intended use (medical or industrial)

  • Technical specifications and product catalog

Correct HS classification helps ensure proper tax application and avoids customs reassessment.

3. Import Duties for Electronic Thermometers

Applicable taxes include:

  • MFN import duty: 0% – 10%

  • VAT: 5% (applicable to medical devices)

  • Preferential duty: 0% with a valid Certificate of Origin under FTAs

The 5% VAT rate is a preferential rate for medical equipment.

** See more Electronic Scale Import Procedures

4. Required Documents for Importing Electronic Thermometers

Importers must prepare both customs and medical regulatory documents:

  • Customs declaration

  • Commercial invoice

  • Packing list

  • Bill of Lading or Air Waybill

  • Sales contract

  • Product catalog

  • Certificate of Origin (if applicable)

  • Medical device classification result

  • Circulation number or acknowledgment of standards declaration

Important: Electronic thermometers must be classified as medical devices prior to import.

5. Step-by-Step Import Procedures for Electronic Thermometers

Step 1: Medical device classification
Determine whether the thermometer is Class A or Class B under Ministry of Health regulations.

Step 2: Register standards declaration or circulation number
Submit the application through the Ministry of Health’s National Single Window system.

Step 3: Submit the electronic customs declaration
Declare via the VNACCS customs system.

Step 4: Customs review of medical and customs documents
Authorities verify the medical device classification and registration.

Step 5: Pay import duties and VAT
Taxes are calculated automatically based on the HS code.

Step 6: Complete customs clearance
Goods are released once all regulatory and customs requirements are met.

6. Important Notes When Importing Electronic Thermometers

6.1 Medical device classification

  • Most electronic thermometers fall under Class A or Class B

  • A valid classification certificate is mandatory

6.2 Product labeling

  • Products must have Vietnamese labels

  • The responsible entity in Vietnam must be clearly indicated

6.3 Documentation accuracy

  • Product catalog must match the imported model

  • Circulation numbers must be valid and effective

** See more Procedures for importing surgical gloves

7. Full-Service Import Support for Electronic Thermometers

Services include:

  • Medical device classification consulting

  • Standards declaration or circulation number registration

  • Full customs declaration services

  • Nationwide logistics and delivery

8. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Electronic Thermometer Import

8.1 Do electronic thermometers require an import license?

No separate import license is required, but medical device classification and registration are mandatory.

8.2 What VAT rate applies to electronic thermometers?

A 5% VAT rate applies as they are medical devices.

8.3 How long does medical registration take?

Approximately 3–7 working days depending on the device classification.

8.4 Do infrared forehead thermometers require registration?

Yes. They are classified as medical devices.

8.5 How long does customs clearance take?

Usually 1–2 days if all documents are complete.

9. Conclusion

Importing electronic thermometers involves additional medical device regulatory procedures. However, with proper medical classification, complete documentation, and accurate customs declaration, businesses can complete the import process smoothly and in compliance with Vietnamese regulations.

If you have difficulties when clearing customs, you can choose Just In Time as a companion.

Just In Time's staff is always enthusiastic to support you to handle your work quickly and professionally.

 

JUST IN TIME JOINT STOCK COMPANY

Address: No. 5, Dong Da, Tan Son Hoa Ward, Ho Chi Minh City.

Hotline: +84 83 9910066

Email: info@justintimevn.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justintimevn

** See more Procedures for importing surgical gowns

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