WPC Approval for Importers: License Process, Documents & Cost Explained

Do you want to bring Bluetooth-enabled or wireless gadgets into India? For your items to pass customs, you must have a WPC Certificate for Import. This accreditation is crucial for making sure your products meet Indian wireless standards and is issued by the Ministry of Communications' Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing.

What is WPC Certification in India?

The prerequisite for the import or sale of wireless and radio frequency (RF) capable equipment that operate in de-licensed frequency bands is known as WPC Certification India. The safety and technical requirements set out by Indian authorities must be met by these devices.

Two primary categories of approvals exist:

Equipment Type Approval (ETA): Required for wireless devices using license-free frequency bands.

Import License: Required for bringing the approved device into India.

Who Needs a WPC ETA Certificate?

The following situations require a WPC ETA Certificate:

• Import Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or RF-enabled equipment.

• Manufacture and sell wireless products in India.

• Launch any product using RF modules in India.

If the equipment uses a foreign-manufactured RF module, ETA approval must be obtained before import.

Items That Need WPC ETA Approval in India

Smart Devices & Consumer Electronics

• Bluetooth Speakers

• Wireless Headphones & Earbuds

• Smartwatches

• Fitness Bands

• Smart TVs with Wi-Fi/Bluetooth

• Wireless Keyboards & Mice

• Wireless Charging Pads

Communication Devices

• Wi-Fi Routers

• Wireless Access Points

• Modems with Wi-Fi Capability

• Walkie-Talkies (in specific frequency bands)

• RF Remote Controls

 IoT & Industrial Devices

• IoT Gateways & Sensors

• Home Automation Controllers

• Zigbee and LoRa Devices

• Smart Meters (Electric, Water, Gas)

• Industrial RF Controllers

Mobile and IT Accessories

• Mobile Phones with Wi-Fi/Bluetooth (importers)

• Wireless Printers & Scanners

• USB Wi-Fi Adapters

Documents Required for WPC Certificate for Import

In order to receive WPC approval for import, you would often require the following documents:

1. RF Test Report from an accredited lab (preferably NABL or foreign equivalent)

2. Product Datasheet or Technical Specifications

3. Authorization Letter from the manufacturer (in case the importer is not the manufacturer)

4. Company PAN and GST registration copy

5. Import-Export Code (IEC) certificate

6. Purchase Invoice/Agreement (if applicable)

Step-by-Step Process to Get WPC Certificate for Import

1. Product Testing

  Get your product tested by an accredited lab to confirm compliance with Indian wireless standards.

2. Online Application Submission

Visit the WPC online portal and create an account.

Fill in the application form for ETA and upload all required documents.

3. Review and Approval

The WPC authority will verify your application and may request additional documents.

Once verified, they will issue the WPC ETA Certificate.

4. Apply for Import License (if applicable)

After ETA approval, apply for an import license to legally bring the products into India.

Cost and Timeline for WPC Certification India

ETA Certificate Cost: ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 (depending on product category and testing needs)

Import License Fee: Additional cost may apply if importing in bulk or via specific ports.

Timeline: 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the accuracy of documentation and product complexity.

Professional consultants or compliance service providers can speed up the process and reduce delays.

Final Thought

Obtaining a WPC Certificate for Import is important for more reasons than just compliance; it also guarantees that your wireless devices adhere to safety and regulatory requirements in India. Knowing the procedure up advance will help you avoid delays, fines, and customs problems, whether you're obtaining a WPC ETA Certificate or a complete WPC Approval.