Ever tried to bring in a mobile phone from overseas into Malaysia and got hit with a Customs issue? Your courier will then call you up telling you that you need a SIRIM certificate. Some couriers will offer to do it for you for a fee of RM300.00 thereabouts but there’s a way to do it yourself and save some money!

Do note that although there is no import duty for bringing in mobile phones, there is a hidden charge which is the SIRIM E-Permit!

You have two options:

1. Go to your nearest SIRIM office and fill up a form and pay the RM100.00 fee. Bring relevant invoices and details of your item! You can find your nearest SIRIM office here; OR
2. Give your local SIRIM office a call and see if you can submit the form and supporting documents to them via e-mail and pay the RM100.00 online to their SIRIM account. There is no longer an official online system but speak to someone at the office and they may be willing to assist you. A copy of the form which is correct as the date of writing can be found here. Once you have paid, make sure to e-mail them your online payment receipt too!
3. Download here: Application Form for E-Permit. For your information, the Tariff Code for mobile phones is 8517.12.000
4. Once this is submitted, you can arrange for the courier to pick up the certificate from SIRIM or just bring it to the courier yourself. I understand that a PDF copy is insufficient for the courier to release the item.

I hope this helps some people when importing in phones themselves!