What Are the Documents Required for WPC Certification in India?

If you manufacture wireless products, you must obtain a WPC Certificate in India. But what documents are required for certification? Let's review the necessary documents to obtain this certification and sell your product in the Indian market.

Before any wireless-enabled product can legally enter India- whether through manufacturing, importing, or sale- it must comply with all regulatory guidelines established by the Wireless Planning & Coordination Wing (WPC) of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).  

Companies that manufacture or import wireless products must obtain an ETA from the WPC to prevent potential delivery delays and/or penalties levied on the manufacturer, or customs refusal to accept the shipment. For manufacturers or Importers, it is critical to obtain this Certificate. To obtain WPC Approval, you can minimise potential issues by ensuring you have provided all required documentation. Therefore, we are providing this blog to give you an understanding of what documentation is required, how to apply for a WPC license, the importance of obtaining WPC Certification and why you need a consultant.

Checklist of Required Documents for WPC Certification India

Typically, the documents required for WPC ETA Certification will include details of the company's incorporation, specifications of the products being certified, RF Test Reports, letters of authorisation, and other documentation that relate to the compliance of the products being certified with the standards set by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT). Below is a detailed description of all of the requirements.

1. Company Registration Copy

The Company Registration Certificate is a proof document that shows that the applicant is legally recognised as a business entity. Eligible applicants for the WPC ETA Certification include manufacturers, importers, or distributors. Acceptable documentation includes Certificate of Incorporation (for companies), Partnership Deed (for partnership firms), MSME/UDYAM Registration (if applicable), and the purpose of this documentation requirement is to ensure that only bona fide businesses apply for WPC ETA Certification.

2. ID and Address Proof of Authorised Person

The authorised person who is applying on behalf of the applicant will also need to supply ID and Address proof. Acceptable documents include Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, and these are to confirm the identity of the person responsible for the application.

3. Company GST Registration Copy

The GST Registration Certificate proves that a company is registered under the GST (Goods and Services Tax) in India. All Indian businesses (manufacturers, traders, or importers) must register under this tax system.

4. Radio Frequency (RF) Test Report

The RF Test Report is the most important document for WPC Certification purposes. It must be issued either from an ISO accredited foreign laboratory or from a NABL-accredited laboratory in India. The RF Test Report describes whether or not a wireless device meets the Indian guidelines regarding its use of the wireless spectrum. If the RF Test Report does not match the Wireless Device's Specifications sheet, your application will probably be denied.

5. Letter of Authorisation - LoA

A Letter(s) of Authorisation is required if a WPC Consultant is applying on behalf of a company, a company that imports products from abroad must apply to the manufacturer, and another company is handling all documentation related to Certification on behalf of the applicant company. The Letter of Authorisation gives an individual or group the right to apply for WPC Certification on behalf of an applicant company.

6. Technical Product Documentation

Product technical documents help ensure that the product is compliant with the relevant regulations regarding the performance and operation of all wireless devices 

7. Import Export Code (IEC) for Imported Wireless Devices

All imported wireless devices that require WPC Certification must also obtain an Import Export Code (IEC). Importers are prohibited from purchasing products outside of India without an IEC.

8. Import Wireless Device PO

A purchase order (PO) must be generated by the importer when importing a wireless device. A PO is a legal document that provides proof of the transaction between the importer and manufacturer and helps WPC authorities confirm the legitimacy of the supply chain.

9. WPC Certification Fee Payment Receipt

An online payment receipt for the prescribed government fee associated with the WPC certification process will be required as part of the application process.

10. Other Compliance Testing Reports 

While most products do not require additional compliance testing reports, some additional compliance testing reports may be useful to support the claim that the wireless device meets applicable health, safety, and environmental standards.

Additional Requirements Based on Business Type

Depending upon the applicant's business model, there may be additional requirements for the application process.

If the foreign manufacturer does not have an office in India:

• They will need to appoint an Authorised Indian Representative (AIR).
• The AIR will represent and represent the foreign manufacturer by applying.
• The foreign manufacturer must provide an authorisation letter that confirms the appointment of the AIR.

If the company has a liaison office or subsidiary in India:

• The liaison office or subsidiary must register itself as the Authorised Indian Representative (AIR).
• Indian Manufacturers
• Indian manufacturers can file their applications directly without the need to appoint an AIR, so long as all required documents are in place.

Why Documents Matter for WPC Certification

The  WPC Approval Process is very technical in nature, and it only takes a small error, such as an incorrect model number, incomplete RF test parameters, or missing Authorisation Letters, to cause an application to be rejected by the WPC. Therefore, Complete and accurate documentation will:

• Expedite the application approval process from WPC
• Ensure that your device is compliant with the Indian wireless frequency licensing Regulations
• Allow for ease of customs clearance for imported devices
• Prevent penalties or product seizure by the Indian Government
• Provide you with the legal clearance to sell your wireless device(s) in the Indian Marketplace.
• To have a hassle-free WPC certification experience, you must have a good understanding of the required documentation.

Conclusion

The WPC Certification is required for every wireless-enabled device that will be marketed in India. Accurate and full documentation (RF test reports, Company Registration documents, Technical Datasheets, and Authorisation letters) is essential for obtaining a successful and timely Certification. With accurate documentation, businesses can avoid customs delays, regulatory penalties, and other issues. The WPC ETA Specialist at ERCS Private Limited will assist you with all aspects of your Certification process.