The WPC (Wireless Planning and Coordination) Import License is issued by the WPC wing of the Ministry of
Communications in India. This license is essential for importing any wireless or radio frequency-enabled
equipment, such as Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi modules, RFID, and other wireless communication devices.
- Purpose: The WPC Import License ensures that any wireless equipment imported into
India complies with the national regulations and frequency spectrum allocation. This is crucial
to avoid interference with other communication services and to ensure that devices meet the
technical and safety standards.
- Types of Equipment Covered:
- Bluetooth devices
- Wi-Fi routers and modules
- RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) devices
- Microwave communication equipment
- Other radio frequency equipment
- Regulatory Body: The WPC wing, which falls under the Department of
Telecommunications, oversees spectrum management, wireless licensing, and ensuring compliance
with India's wireless regulations.
- License Categories: The WPC issues different types of licenses, such as the ETA
(Equipment Type Approval) for devices that operate in the de-licensed frequency bands, and
Import Licenses for wireless equipment that requires frequency allocation.
- Application Process:
- Documentation: Applicants need to submit documents like equipment
specifications, test reports, business registration, and authorization letters.
- Testing: Devices must undergo testing to ensure they comply with the
Indian frequency and safety standards.
- Approval: After evaluation, the WPC issues the Import License, allowing
businesses to legally import wireless devices into India.
- Importance for Businesses: Without the WPC Import License, businesses cannot
legally import wireless equipment into India, which could lead to penalties or confiscation of
goods. Compliance ensures smooth operations and entry into the Indian market for wireless
devices.
This license is particularly crucial for companies involved in electronics, telecommunications, and
technology who deal with wireless communication devices.
Why Importers Need a WPC License?
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) serves as India's primary regulatory authority responsible for
WPC clearance, functioning under the Ministry of Communications. This division not only handles
licensing but is also tasked with managing and monitoring frequency spectrums.
The Indian Wireless Act and the Indian Telegraphy Act are the key regulations that outline the licensing
requirements for various types of wireless equipment.
When it comes to obtaining Equipment Type Approval (ETA) or WPC ETA approval in India, the process
varies depending on whether the manufacturer is domestic or international:
- Foreign Manufacturers: They can only apply through an Authorized Indian
Representative (AIR).
- Domestic Manufacturers: If the wireless product operates on unlicensed frequency
bands, an ETA is required.
This requirement makes the approval process more complex. When you factor in the AIR requirement,
application process, continuous monitoring, and multiple visits to the department, obtaining a WPC
ETA License can become quite overwhelming.
Once you have received the Equipment Type Approval from Wireless Planning and Coordination, the next
step is to approach the relevant WPC Regional Office to secure your WPC Import License. SeaRoot can
guide you through this process with the expertise of our professionals, ensuring a smooth and
hassle-free experience.
What are the different categories of WPC Certificate in India?
In India, the WPC (Wireless Planning and Coordination) issues different categories of certificates for
businesses dealing with wireless devices and communication services:
- Importer's License: This license is granted to companies importing wireless devices
into India. It allows businesses to legally import and sell wireless products sourced from
international markets.
- ETA (Equipment Type Approval): Any wireless device that operates on de-licensed
frequency spectrums must obtain an Equipment Type Approval (ETA) from the WPC before being
imported into India. This applies to both imported devices and those manufactured domestically.
Products like RFID devices, mobile phones, Wi-Fi modules, Bluetooth devices, and similar
equipment fall under this category.
- Network License: Companies that offer communication services, such as mobile
networks, cable, or DTH, must acquire a network license. This license permits the use of the
country’s limited radio frequency spectrum for providing these services.
These licenses and approvals are essential for ensuring compliance with India's regulatory framework
for wireless communication equipment and services.
Approvals issued by WPC include:
The approvals granted by the WPC include the following types of licenses and certificates:
- Equipment Type Approval (ETA)
- Type Approval
- Experimental Approval
- Dealer and Non-Dealer Possession Licenses (DPL and NDPL)
- Import License for the import of radio equipment
Note: In most cases, only the WPC ETA Approval is required for foreign manufacturers.
The term "WPC registration" is often used interchangeably with "ETA (Equipment Type Approval).
Which Products Require a WPC Certificate for Import?
Importing wireless equipment that uses Wi-Fi or Bluetooth necessitates a WPC license. In India, all
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and ZigBee-enabled devices must have a WPC Certificate.
Here is the list of products/devices that require WPC Certificate:
| S.No. |
Product Name |
| 1 |
Bluetooth Device |
| 2 |
WIFI Router |
| 3 |
Smart Speaker |
| 4 |
Wireless Repeater |
| 5 |
Walkie-talkie |
| 6 |
WiFi Bulb / Smart Bulb |
| 7 |
Wireless Point of Sale Terminals |
| 8 |
Wireless Keyboards |
| 9 |
Wireless Camera |
| 10 |
Drones |
| 11 |
Wireless Plug |
| 12 |
Wireless Home Automation |
Documents required for Import Licenses WPC in India
The documents required for obtaining a WPC Import License in India typically include the following:
Application Form- Copy of Equipment
Type Approval (ETA)
- Technical
Specification Documents
- Authorization Letter
- Import Export Code
(IEC)
- Company Registration
Certificate
- PAN Card of the
Company
- ID Proof of
Authorized Signatory
- Invoice and Purchase
Order
- Frequency Allocation
Plan
Process of getting Import Licenses WPC in India
The process of obtaining a WPC Import License in India involves several steps. Below is an overview of
the process:
- Submitting the
registration form and supporting paper works.
- Pay the registration
charge.
- To make sure the
product complies with standards, testing will be conducted.
- If a product
satisfies the standards, a license will be granted.
Why Choose SeaRoot for WPC Import License?
Choosing SeaRoot for your WPC Import License means partnering with a company that brings extensive
expertise and experience to the table. Our team of professionals is well-versed in the complex
regulatory landscape surrounding WPC licenses and is committed to guiding you through the process
efficiently. We handle everything from documentation to compliance, ensuring that your application is
seamless and stress-free. With our in-depth knowledge of WPC regulations, we help you avoid common
pitfalls and delays, saving you both time and resources. Trust SeaRoot to streamline your WPC Import
License application, allowing you to focus on growing your business while we handle the regulatory
complexities.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What is a WPC Import License?
A WPC Import License is a certification issued by the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC)
wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India. It allows businesses to legally
import wireless and radio frequency-enabled devices into India.
2.Who needs a WPC Import License?
Any company or individual looking to import wireless communication equipment, such as Bluetooth
devices, Wi-Fi routers, RFID systems, etc., into India requires a WPC Import License.
3.What types of products require a WPC Import License?
Wireless communication devices that operate on specific frequency spectrums, including Bluetooth,
Wi-Fi, RFID, and other radio frequency equipment, require a WPC Import License before they can
be imported into India.
4.What is Equipment Type Approval (ETA)?
Equipment Type Approval (ETA) is a certification that is required for devices operating on
de-licensed frequency bands. The ETA ensures that the device complies with Indian frequency
regulations. ETA is a prerequisite for obtaining a WPC Import License.
5.Can foreign manufacturers apply for a WPC Import License?
Foreign manufacturers cannot directly apply for a WPC Import License. They must appoint an
Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to apply on their behalf.
6.What documents are required to apply for a WPC Import License?
The required documents include a filled application form, technical specifications of the
equipment, Equipment Type Approval (ETA), Import Export Code (IEC), company registration
documents, and authorization letters.
