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# WPC ETA Certification for Wireless Equipment

Any wireless product that intentionally transmits radio frequency signals requires WPC Equipment Type Approval (ETA) before it can be legally imported or sold in India. This includes Wi-Fi devices, Bluetooth products, RFID systems, and any IoT device with radio communication.

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At a glance

Application steps

5

Required documents

10

Typical timeline

4-8 weeks

## ETA application process

01

### Verify frequency band and power compliance

Confirm your product operates within WPC-permitted frequency bands at approved power levels. Products using de-licensed bands may not require ETA; restricted bands require specific approval.

02

### Obtain RF test reports

Get product tested at WPC-recognized laboratory for RF parameters including frequency range, power output, spurious emissions, and spectrum efficiency. SAR testing required for body-worn devices.

03

### Appoint Authorized Indian Representative

Foreign manufacturers must appoint an AIR with registered office in India to submit applications and receive WPC correspondence. Indian manufacturers can apply directly.

04

### Submit online application through Saral Sanchar

Register on the Saral Sanchar portal, complete ETA application form, upload RF test reports, product specifications, and user manual. Pay government fees online.

05

### WPC review and ETA grant

WPC reviews RF test reports for compliance with Indian standards. Upon approval, WPC issues Equipment Type Approval with unique ETA number. Timeline: typically 4-8 weeks for complete applications.

## Required documents for ETA application

01RF test report from WPC-recognized or ILAC-accredited laboratory

02Product technical specifications including frequency range and power output

03Circuit diagram and block diagram showing RF components

04User manual in English

05Authorization letter appointing Authorized Indian Representative (foreign manufacturers)

06Company incorporation documents

07Factory inspection certificate (for certain product categories)

08SAR test report (for devices operated close to human body)

09EMC test report (for certain categories)

10Software-defined radio (SDR) documentation if applicable

## ETA labeling requirements

ElementFormatLocation

ETA NumberUnique identifier assigned by WPC (e.g., ETA-XXXXXXX)Product body or packaging

Frequency RangeOperating frequency range (e.g., 2400-2483.5 MHz)Product label

Power OutputMaximum RF power output in dBm or mWProduct label or user manual

Model NumberProduct model identificationProduct label

Manufacturer InformationCompany name and addressProduct label or packaging

## Categories exempt from ETA

### De-licensed frequency band devices

**Conditions:** Operates exclusively in de-licensed bands (e.g., 2.4 GHz ISM, 5.8 GHz) at approved power levels

No ETA required, but self-declaration of compliance recommended

### Low-power short-range devices

**Conditions:** Very low power devices like RFID tags, wireless keyboards/mice in approved bands

Generally exempt from ETA but must comply with de-licensed parameters

### Personal import for personal use

**Conditions:** Single device imported by individual for personal use only, not for resale

Exemption does not apply to commercial imports or bulk quantities

### Temporary import for testing/demonstration

**Conditions:** Import for R&D, testing, or exhibition with re-export commitment

Temporary ETA or specific exemption letter required from WPC

## Frequently asked questions

### What is the difference between ETA and license from WPC?

ETA (Equipment Type Approval) is for products that meet standard parameters and use approved frequency bands — most consumer wireless devices fall here. A WPC License is required for setting up radio stations, broadcast equipment, or operating in restricted/non-standard frequencies. Most commercial wireless products need ETA; operators of radio networks need licenses.

### Can I use foreign test reports for WPC ETA?

Yes, WPC accepts RF test reports from ILAC-accredited laboratories abroad, provided the testing covers all parameters required by Indian standards. The test report must be complete, recent (typically within 1 year), and clearly show compliance with applicable Indian frequency and power regulations. Some product categories may require additional India-specific testing.

### How long is ETA valid?

WPC ETA is typically valid for the lifetime of the product model, provided there are no changes to the RF parameters (frequency, power, modulation). If you modify the radio design, change frequencies, or alter power output, you need fresh ETA. WPC can review and revoke ETA if non-compliance is discovered.

### What happens if I import wireless products without ETA?

Importing wireless equipment requiring ETA without approval is prohibited under Indian Telegraph Act. Consequences: customs seizure of shipment, WPC enforcement action, penalties up to ₹50,000 per violation, potential criminal prosecution for repeat offenses, and blacklisting of importer. E-commerce platforms are required to verify ETA before allowing sales of wireless products.

### Do I need separate ETA for each product variant?

If variants have identical RF characteristics (same frequency, power, modulation), one ETA may cover multiple variants. If RF parameters differ (different frequency bands, power levels), separate ETA is required. Cosmetic variants (different colors, minor form factor changes without RF impact) can typically share ETA with clear documentation of differences.

**Disclaimer:** This guide reflects current WPC ETA requirements under Indian Telegraph Act and related regulations. Frequency allocations and approval requirements are subject to WPC notifications. Always verify current requirements before importing wireless equipment.

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