Bringing wireless-enabled products into the Indian market? Then you can’t miss the approval of WPC Certification for your business. WPC Certification, known as WPC Equipment Type Approval (ETA), is a mandatory compliance requirement for businesses importing, manufacturing, or marketing wireless devices in India.
One of its key functions is granting Equipment Type Approval (ETA), which is mandatory for importing, manufacturing, or selling wireless-enabled products in India.
Getting WPC ETA approval will build trust, boost product credibility, and ensure your devices are safe, secure, and compatible with India’s network infrastructure. For businesses looking to enter the Indian market with wireless products, WPC certification is a legal necessity and a mark of compliance with national standards.
In this blog, discover the meaning and importance of WPC Certificate and how you can get your device approved to unlock endless opportunities in the Indian market.
WPC Certification is the authorisation to import and market wireless devices. WPC stands for Wireless Planning & Coordination License, which is non-optional and issued by the Department of Telecommunications’ Wireless Planning and Coordination Wing.
These days, wireless gadgets are becoming more and more prevalent. Even though India is becoming a more self-sufficient nation, some goods from other countries are occasionally irreplaceable. We are discussing high-quality wireless devices here. The average customer can now afford more goods because of these foreign items. Thus, there’s no need to wait any longer if you sell wireless items and apply for a WPC ETA certificate.
WPC certification is important for several key reasons, especially in the context of wireless and radio frequency devices in India. Here’s a breakdown of why it matters:
Wireless products in India require a WPC certificate. A WPC certificate is required to import and sell wireless products. The products that require this certificate are mentioned below:
The Department of Telecommunications is the regulating agency for WPC approval in India. In India, the Ministry of Telecommunications would be the only authority in charge of such a department. In addition to out-licensing, the organisation would oversee frequency spectrum management and surveillance. The main statute that regulates the need for licensing for different kinds of equipment is the India Wireless and India Telegraphy Act.
If you wish to avail of WPC-ETA approval, then you need to look at the following, which includes the primary procedure and can vary based on how India differs based on whether the manufacturer is domestic or foreign:
Below, we have mentioned some of the benefits of the WPC certificate.
Benefit | Description |
---|---|
Legal Market Entry | Required for selling/importing wireless devices in India |
Faster Customs Clearance | Avoids delays and seizures at Indian ports |
Consumer Trust & Brand Image | Demonstrates compliance and product quality |
Reduced Risk of Interference | Ensures devices operate within approved frequency bands |
Enhanced Product Quality | The certification process improves reliability and safety |
Competitive Advantage | Certified products are preferred by retailers and consumers |
Support for International Trade | Eases export/import processes and supports global market expansion |
The following documents are required for a WPS Certification for the device in India that functions without any wire or for the import of wireless products:
For Foreign Producing Companies
For India Producing Companies
For WPC ETA Certification
Here’s a step-by-step overview of how to obtain WPC Certification:
It is advisable to visit the official website of the Wireless Planning and Coordination Wing (WPC), Ministry of Communications, Government of India. To get the most accurate and current information in India. Moreover, you can contact the WPC ETA consultants at ELT Corporate to obtain accurate information regarding the different permits, certifications, and related costs to obtain a WPC ETA certificate.
The processing time for obtaining a WPC Certificate-specifically for Equipment Type Approval, is typically around 15 to 30 working days after submission of all required documents and test reports.
As for validity:
For licenses involving frequency allocation, the validity may range from one to five years, depending on the terms granted, and may require periodic renewal.
At ELT Corporate, we offer specialised support in securing WPC Certification to electrical and lighting technology products, with a strong focus on wireless and IoT-enabled devices. Our deep industry knowledge allows us to understand your product requirements and compliance challenges better than anyone. We provide end-to-end assistance, from documentation and RF testing to direct coordination with WPC authorities, ensuring a fast, smooth, and hassle-free certification process.
With access to globally accredited labs and an expert team that stays ahead of changing regulations, we minimise delays and reduce the risk of rejection. Our process is transparent, efficient, and cost-effective, giving you a clear path to legal market entry in India. When you partner with ELT Corporate, you’re choosing a team that puts your compliance and success first.
Equipment Type Approval (ETA) is a mandatory certification for importing or selling RF equipment operating in de-licensed (unlicensed) frequency bands (e.g., 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz Wi-Fi).
WPC Clearance is government approval for using or importing wireless devices in India. It ensures the device operates on permitted radio frequencies.
ETA, Import License, and Non-Retail License (like Experimental or Demonstration Licenses).
Yes, unless the product is already BIS-certified for RF compliance.
The range or gap of radio frequencies utilised to send a signal via a telecom network is referred to as the frequency band. To transmit wireless signals, distinct frequency bands are assigned.
WPC is Wireless planning and coordination. WPC certification is necessary before any kind of radio-frequency-enabled equipment may be used.
Yes, if your product uses RF communication technologies like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc., you need WPC clearance to ensure it complies with Indian wireless communication norms.
A foreign company cannot directly apply. They must appoint an Indian representative or partner (such as a liaison office, importer, or consultant) to handle the certification process.
Any individual or business that intends to import, sell, or manufacture wireless-enabled products (such as Bluetooth speakers, Wi-Fi routers, RFID devices, etc.) in India needs WPC clearance, especially for devices operating on license-free frequency bands.
The ETA process typically takes 2 to 3 weeks, depending on documentation and test report readiness. Import or manufacturing licenses might take longer due to additional formalities.