Nodejs: Cannot Use Import Statement Outside a Module

The “Cannot Use Import Statement Outside a Module” error is a common stumbling block for Node.js developers who are transitioning to ES6 modules.

This error can be perplexing, but fear not – in this comprehensive guide, we will demystify this issue and provide you with a step-by-step solution to resolve it in your Node.js projects.

Understanding the Error

The “Cannot Use Import Statement Outside a Module” error occurs in Node.js when you attempt to use ES6 module syntax without configuring Node.js to recognize it.

This issue primarily arises due to Node.js treating the code as CommonJS modules by default.

When and Why Does This Error Occur?

This error typically occurs when:

• You’re using ES6 module syntax (import and export) in a Node.js project.
• Node.js is not configured to handle ES6 modules.

Common Causes

Before we dive into the solution, let’s examine some common reasons behind the “Cannot Use Import Statement Outside a Module” error in Node.js:

Missing "type" Declaration

To use ES6 modules in a Node.js project, you need to declare the module type in your project’s package.json file. Without this declaration, Node.js defaults to CommonJS modules, leading to the error.

Incorrect File Extensions

Using the wrong file extension in your import statements can also trigger this error. Ensure that your imported files have the .mjs extension to indicate ES6 modules.

Outdated Node.js Version

An outdated Node.js version may not fully support ES6 modules. It’s crucial to keep Node.js up to date to benefit from the latest features and compatibility.

Solution: Configure Node.js for ES6 Modules

To resolve the “Cannot Use Import Statement Outside a Module” error in Node.js, follow these steps:

1. Create or Update package.json:

– Open your project’s package.json file.

2. Add "type" Field:

Inside the package.json file, add the "type" field with the value "module":

3. Save the Changes:

– Save the package.json file.

With these simple configurations, Node.js will recognize your project as an ES6 module and allow you to use import and export statements without encountering the error.

Example Code

Here’s an example illustrating how to configure Node.js for ES6 modules in your package.json:

Final Thoughts on Cannot Use Import Statement Outside a Module” Error in Node.js

The “Cannot Use Import Statement Outside a Module” error can be a frustrating roadblock for Node.js developers, but with the right configuration, you can swiftly overcome it.

By adding the "type" field with the value "module" to your package.json file, you enable ES6 module support in Node.js, allowing you to utilize modern module syntax without encountering this error.