Overview

The demand for wireless connections has been increasing rapidly in the past few years due to their versatility, efficiency, and ability to enhance mobility and connectivity. These factors, combined with innovative applications, have created a robust market for wireless imports. The need for importing wireless applications can only be done through approval of the WPC certificate standard regulations. But why the need for certification for wireless devices? This step is taken by the Ministry of Telecommunication/IT to create a safe, efficient, and secure wireless environment while fostering a healthy market for wireless devices.

In this article, we will provide you with complete insights into the related paperwork, procedures, and fee structure involved in procuring the WPC license certificate for selling wireless devices in the Indian market.

What is a WPC Certificate?

The WPC certificate is a kind of certificate that allows importers to sell wireless devices in the Indian market legally. This certificate acts like a passport to ensure that the package for importing wireless applications has passed all the necessary checks and is allowed to be sold and used in India.

The WPC ETA (Wireless Planning and Coordination Equipment Type Approval) certification assures that the electronic devices comply with Indian regulatory regulations for radio frequency usage, which is critical for preventing interference with other communication services and protecting the country's communication infrastructure. In India, the electronics and telecommunications industries recognize the WPC certificate as a crucial certification due to a number of factors.

Rules for WPC ETA Certificate

Here are the specific rules why the WPC ETA certificate is essential for the importers or producers to facilitate true brand image for wireless applications in the Indian market:

• Radio frequency standards: The wireless application must adhere to particular frequency bands and power limitations to prevent interference with other wireless services.
• Safety standards: The WPC ETA certificate must ensure that the users of wireless applications are not exposed to harmful levels of radiation, thereby ensuring smooth operation.
• EMC standards: The device should not cause electromagnetic interference with other electronic equipment.
• Technical documentation: Manufacturers must provide detailed technical specifications and test reports.

Types of WPC Certificate

Here are the 3 types of WPC ETA certification approval, which are as follows:

• Non-network license: A non-network license is a type of license that is provided to the individual who's not involved in providing network services, such as cable TV providers and sellers of wireless devices. It has been categorized in 3 types:
• Import license: These licenses are provided to the entity that wants to kickstart their business within the national boundary.
• Dealer possession: This license is granted on behalf of the distributors and dealers of the wireless devices.
• Non-dealer possession: This license is granted to those entities who neither have WPC certificates nor are involved in selling wireless applications.
• Network License: A network license is a type of license that deals with radio frequencies to provide communication services such as mobile networks, cable services, and Direct to Homes (D2H) broadcasting. This has been categorized into 2 types:
• Internet Service Provider license: The ISP license is required by those who want to deliver internet services. For this, you must get an ISP license from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
• Experimental license: This license is required by those who want to conduct experiments or research with wireless gadgets.
• WPC ETA Approval: Importing products like Bluetooth or RFID devices, you need to make sure that they obtain WPC ETA certificates. RF module’s product, which is manufactured in India, has an ETA and no changes or modifications; you don’t even require separate WPC ETA approval.

Mandatory Products Covered Under WPC ETA Certificate

Here are the products that are required to be included under the WPC ETA certificate:

• Radios
• Antenna
• Drones
• Smart watches
• Walkie Talkie
• Wireless Cameras
• Smart speakers
• Hotspot devices
• Smart TVs
• Wireless Transmitters
• Drones
• RFID and tags
• Sensors
• Actuators

Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining WPC Certificate

Here are the eligibility criteria for obtaining the WPC certificate, which are as follows:

• Indian representation: Only manufacturers or their designated representatives located within India are qualified to apply for a WPC certificate. The applicant company must be officially registered in India and possess a valid import-export license or equivalent business permit.
• Technical documentation: Detailed technical specifications, including circuit and system diagrams, and other relevant engineering information about the electronic equipment must be provided.
• Compliance with standards: The electronic communication device must adhere to all applicable Indian or international standards as outlined by the WPC. These standards safeguard the device's safety, security, and compatibility with other systems.
• Testing in WPC-approved laboratories: The device must undergo testing in WPC-approved facilities to confirm its compliance with specified technical requirements and standards.
• Frequency Band Allocation: A WPC certificate is specific to devices operating within designated frequency bands. Applicants must ensure their equipment complies with these allocated frequencies.
• Valid certificate from International Bodies: In certain cases, existing international certifications like FCC or CE approvals can be used as a basis to expedite the WPC ETA certification process.

Documents Required for WPC Certificate

Following are the documents required for the WPC Certificate:

• Company Incorporation
• GST registration certificate
• Import Export Certificate (IEC)
• Purchase Order (PO) of the imported equipment
• Receipt of online fee
• Address proof of the applicant
• Letter of authorization
• Product technical details
• RF test reports from ISO accredited foreign laboratories or an NABL-accredited laboratory

Procedures for Obtaining WPC Certificate

Following are the procedures for obtaining the WPC certificate:

Step 1: Preparation of application documents

The first step towards obtaining a certificate is to organize and gather all the requisite documents that are needed at the time of proceeding with the application. This includes technical specifications of the device, circuit diagrams, block diagrams, test reports, company registration documents, import-export code (IEC), and other relevant documentation as specified by the WPC.

Step 2: RF tests in an accredited laboratory in India

This stage involves sending the device to a laboratory approved by the WPC to undergo radio frequency tests. These tests verify that the device complies with the specified radio frequency standards and regulations.

Step 3: Application through submission of documents and test reports

This step involves submitting the prepared application documents and the RF test reports to the WPC for evaluation. The application may be submitted online or in person, depending on the WPC's specific requirements.

Step 4: Issuance of certificate through WPC

This is the final stage where the WPC reviews the submitted documents and test results. If the device complies with the regulations, the WPC will issue the WPC ETA certificate, authorizing the import, sale, and use of the device in India.

Fee Structure for WPC Certificate

The total fee required for obtaining WPC certification is ₹17,500, including our professional charges and the government fees.

Time Taken to Obtain WPC Certificate

Obtaining a WPC ETA (Wireless Planning Coordination) certificate usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. However, the period varies depending on a criteria, including the application's completeness, type of equipment, and testing requirements.

Benefits of WPC Certificate

Below are the benefits of the WPC certificate, which are as follows:

• Regulatory compliance: For preventing legal complications from entering into your startup venture of wireless connections, the WPC certificate can make your market entry smooth.
• Market access: The market access for your wireless applications can enhance brand image, consumer trust, and competitive advantage in the Indian market.
• Operational efficiency: The operational efficiency for selling wireless connections expedites the customs clearance process, reducing delays and costs. The WPC ETA approval can reduce the chance of heavy penalties and fines.
• Product quality and safety: The WPC ETA certificate ensures customers trust with improved customers, consumer safety, and reduced interference.

Conclusion

Obtaining a WPC certificate is crucial for any entity intending to manufacture, import, or sell wireless devices in India. It ensures compliance with the country's wireless regulations, safeguarding both the manufacturer and the consumer. By successfully obtaining a WPC certificate, businesses can establish a strong foothold in the Indian market and contribute to a safe and reliable wireless ecosystem.

Why Choose BizFoc for WPC Certificate?

BizFoc is a one-stop solution that you can trust to register your company under WPC ETA approval. Our team of qualified chartered accountants, lawyers, and company secretaries is a specialist in business incorporation services. We simplify the process, advise on business requirements, and support business beyond the start. We get your name applied within 4 hours of our engagement, and our success rate for name reservations stands at 98.5%. Start now with BizFoc as your trusted business partner for all your legal and business registration services!

Frequently Asked Questions about WPC License