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WPC-ETA (Wireless Planning and Coordination - Equipment Type Approval) is a regulatory process in India that pertains to the approval of wireless and telecommunications equipment before it can be legally imported, sold or used within the country. The WPC-ETA Approval is administered by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) through it’s Wireless Planning and Coordination Wing. This certification process is crucial for ensuring that electronic devices and equipment comply with Indian regulations and technical standards related to wireless communication.

Need broader regulatory support beyond this certification? See iKargos's full trade compliance advisory.

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For a customized and attractive quotation, please contact with your product details to Rekha Atri (+91 98118 03136) or Manju Laur (+91 9711994042).

Overview of WPC ETA Approval:

Manufacturers or importers seeking to introduce wireless and telecommunications equipment in India must undergo the WPC-ETA Approval process. This typically involves rigorous testing and evaluation to ensure that the equipment adheres to the specified technical parameters, frequency bands and safety standards mandated by the WPC. The equipment's performance and emissions are carefully examined to prevent interference with other wireless devices and to guarantee it’s safe and efficient operation.

Obtaining WPC-ETA Approval is a legal requirement and non-compliance can result in regulatory actions, such as equipment seizure and fines. This approval assures Indian consumers that the wireless devices they use meet the necessary quality and safety standards. Manufacturers benefit from it as well as it allows them to access the Indian market, foster consumer trust and operate within the legal framework. Keeping the WPC-ETA Approval up-to-date is essential as changes in technical standards or regulations can require re-certification to ensure continued compliance.

'The following products are covered under the Compulsory Registration Scheme:'

Key Regulatory Distinction:

  • ETA via Self-Declaration (Saral Sanchar): Applicable to commercial products operating in de-licensed frequency bands (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, RFID, NFC) with standard RF parameters. Certificates are generated automatically upon successful submission and fee payment based on a compliant RF test report.

  • Regular ETA / Non-De-Licensed Frequency Bands: Applicable to equipment operating in licensed or customized frequency bands requiring formal technical scrutiny and clearance from the Regional Licensing Office (RLO) or WPC headquarters.

  • Import License (WPC Import Permit): Beyond the ETA certificate, commercial importers must also ensure compliance with DGFT and customs import licensing requirements for wireless apparatus, linking the issued ETA number directly with the Customs ICEGATE portal.

Benefits of WPC/ETA Approval:

  • Market Access: WPC-ETA approval is a regulatory requirement for selling wireless communication equipment and devices in the Indian market. By obtaining this certification, manufacturers can access a vast and growing market with significant demand for wireless technologies.
  • Compliance with Regulations: WPC-ETA approval ensures that manufacturers' products conform to the technical and safety standards set by the Indian government.
  • Avoiding Penalties: Selling wireless equipment without WPC-ETA approval can result in penalties and legal actions. Manufacturers can avoid such issues by securing this certification.
  • Global Expansion: Some international markets may recognize WPC-ETA approval as a testament to your product's quality and compliance with standards. This can facilitate global expansion opportunities for your company.
  • Consumer Trust: Having the WPC-ETA approval for your products enhances consumer trust. It signifies that your devices are reliable, safe and compatible with Indian network infrastructure which can lead to increased sales and brand credibility.

Documentation of WPC/ETA Approval:

To initiate the WPC certification process, manufacturers must provide a comprehensive set of documents.

1. Business & Identity Documentation (Applicant/Signatory)

  • Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed / GST Registration Certificate

  • Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) issued by DGFT (for importers)

  • PAN Card of the company and Authorized Signatory

  • Aadhaar Card / Identity Proof of the Authorized Indian Signatory

  • Letter of Authorization (LOA) on company letterhead empowering the signatory

  • Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) agreement (for foreign OEMs)

2. Technical & Compliance Documents

  • Radio Frequency (RF) Test Report: Comprehensive test report from an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory (NABL accredited Indian lab or ILAC-recognized international lab) evaluating RF output power, frequency band, occupied bandwidth, and spurious emissions against standard EN 300 328, EN 301 893, or applicable ETSI/FCC standards.

  • Product Specification Sheet / Technical Data Sheet: Outlining frequency range, modulation type, antenna type, gain, and maximum output power (EIRP).

  • User Manual / Technical Handbook: Describing product functionality and RF characteristics.

  • Schematic Circuit Diagrams & PCB Layout: Detailing RF transceiver circuitry and antenna integration.

  • Declaration of Conformity (DoC): Manufacturer undertaking confirming compliance with Indian RF regulations.

SNO. Particular Description List of Required Information
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Fees and Timeline

Fees

For a customized and attractive quotation, please contact with your product details to Rekha Atri (+91 98118 03136) or Manju Laur (+91 9711994042).

Timeline: 

The timeline for obtaining WPC certification is influenced by the thorough technical scrutiny and testing processes can take anywhere from 7 to 14 days.

  1. Product & Frequency Evaluation: Analyze product specification sheet and confirm operating frequency bands, modulation, and EIRP power against Indian NFAP de-licensed schedules.

  2. RF Lab Testing & Report Verification: Obtain an accredited RF test report covering all operating bands. Verify that model numbers, manufacturer details, and RF parameters match the application perfectly.

  3. Portal Registration on Saral Sanchar: Create applicant profile on the Department of Telecommunications' Saral Sanchar portal with verified company credentials and digital signature.

  4. Application Drafting & Document Upload: Prepare application under the Self-Declaration ETA module, entering frequency ranges, output power, antenna details, and uploading technical reports.

  5. Government Fee Payment: Complete statutory payment online through Bharatkosh integration on the Saral Sanchar portal.

  6. Certificate Issuance & Validation: Upon successful automated verification, the WPC ETA Certificate with a unique registration number is issued electronically.

  7. Customs ICEGATE Integration & Import Clearance: Link the ETA certificate number with the Customs Bill of Entry and ICEGATE filings to enable rapid clearance of import consignments.

Process to apply for WPC/ETA Approval:

Step 1: Register on the WPC online portal.

Step 2: Click on Apply new ETA.

Step 3: Obtain RF test reports.

Step 4: Get the WPC application.

Step 5: Submit the required documents.

Step 6: Pay the Government fee.

Step 7: After the document verification, your WPC certificate will be issued.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Products Covered Under This Certificate

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