India is experiencing rapid growth in wireless technologies—Bluetooth-enabled gadgets, Wi-Fi-connected devices, IoT applications, smart home systems, and wireless peripherals have flooded the market. But before any such device can be manufactured, sold, or imported into the Indian market, it must meet regulatory requirements set by the Wireless Planning Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).If you're planning to launch wireless devices in India, obtaining WPC Approval  (also known as ETA Approval) is mandatory. This guide provides a detailed overview of the WPC approval process in 2025, its legal significance, applicable devices, documentation needs, and how a trusted WPC Consultant can ensure a smooth and fast approval.

What is WPC Approval in India?

WPC Approval, officially known as Equipment Type Approval (ETA), is a certification granted by the WPC Wing of DoT that allows the use of wireless equipment in license-free frequency bands.

The certification ensures that:

• Devices operate within approved frequency ranges

• Radio transmissions do not interfere with other networks

• Power levels comply with Indian norms

• Products are safe and legally marketable in India

Why WPC ETA Certification Matters Before Product Launch

If your product includes any wireless communication module (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, RFID), ETA Approval is compulsory before launch. Without this certification:

• Customs authorities can seize your shipment

• Retailers can reject distribution

• Online platforms can delist your product

• You can face legal penalties

Whether you're a brand owner, importer, or manufacturer, securing WPC ETA Certification is your ticket to a legal product launch in India

Who Needs WPC Approval in 2025?

You need ETA Approval if you're involved in any of the following:

• Importing wireless-enabled products

• Manufacturing devices that use unlicensed frequency bands

• Selling white-labeled gadgets from OEMs

• Running an e-commerce brand dealing in wireless tech

• Launching a smart home or IoT hardware product

Even small startups or D2C brands must comply with WPC regulations before market entry.

Types of Devices That Require WPC ETA Certification

Here are common devices that require WPC Approval:

Understanding License-Free Frequencies

In India, certain frequency bands are categorized as “license-free,” which means you don't need a wireless operator license—but you still need ETA Approval.

Common License-Free Bands in India:

• 2.4 GHz – 2.4835 GHz (used in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n)

• 5.150 GHz – 5.825 GHz (used in Wi-Fi 802.11ac/n/ax)

• 865 MHz – 867 MHz (used in RFID systems)

Step-by-Step Process for WPC ETA Certification in 2025

Let’s walk through the updated process of obtaining WPC ETA Certification this year.

Step 1: Product Evaluation

Start by identifying if your product:

• Uses RF modules

• Operates in license-free frequency bands

• Falls under the categories listed by DoT

If yes, you're required to apply for ETA Approval.

Step 2: RF Testing in NABL-Accredited Lab

The next step is Radio Frequency (RF) Testing at a NABL-accredited lab in India. This ensures your device complies with Indian standards.

Test Report Includes:

• Frequency range and bandwidth

• Output power

• Channel specifications

• Spurious emissions

• Antenna type

✅ Even if you already have CE/FCC certification, Indian RF testing is mandatory for ETA.

Step 3: Register on Saral Sanchar Portal

Visit the official government portal

Create a company login by submitting:

• PAN and GST details

• Import Export Code (IEC)

• Authorized contact person’s ID

• Email and mobile OTP verification

Once registered, you can submit your ETA application digitally.

Step 4: Upload Application and Documents

Submit the application for WPC ETA Certification along with:

• RF Test Report (from NABL lab)

• Product datasheet or brochure

• Brand authorization letter (if applicable)

• Product label image (showing model and frequency)

• IEC and business documents

A WPC Consultant can help you format and prepare all documents to avoid errors.

Step 5: Review and Approval

The WPC Wing reviews your application. If everything is correct:

• Approval is granted within 7–15 working days

• You receive a digital ETA Certificate with unique reference number

Step 6: Certificate Usage and Product Labeling

The ETA Certificate must be:

• Kept for compliance and customs inspection

• Linked to each product model (can’t be shared across variants)

• Submitted during BIS approval or e-commerce onboarding (if requested)

ETA Approval for Imported Products

If you are importing Bluetooth or Wi-Fi products from countries like China, Korea, USA, or Taiwan:

• RF Testing must be done in India

• Label and test report must match exact model name

• OEM authorization letter is required

• The Indian importer or brand owner must apply

• WPC approval must be obtained before shipment arrives

A WPC Consultant is often used to ensure accurate certification before customs clearance.

What Happens Without WPC ETA Approval?

Non-compliance with WPC regulations can lead to:

• Confiscation of goods by customs

• Heavy penalties or fines

• Product bans from online marketplaces

• Legal disputes and import license issues

To avoid such issues, timely ETA Approval is the safest route to launch in India.

Benefit of Hiring a WPC Consultant

Applying for WPC certification involves dealing with technical documents, lab coordination, and legal guidelines. A professional WPC Consultant can:

Key Services Offered:

• Analyze whether your product needs ETA

• Coordinate RF testing and documentation

• Register and manage Saral Sanchar portal account

• Submit application error-free

• Track approval status and follow up with WPC

• Ensure model number and frequency alignment

• Handle import compliance at customs

This is especially helpful for:

• Startups

• Importers dealing with multiple SKUs

• Brands with limited in-house compliance teams

WPC ETA Certification Timeline (2025)

WPC ETA Validity and Renewal

• WPC ETA Certificates do not expire unless:

  • The product specs change

  • A new model or variant is introduced

• You must apply separately for each model or RF chip combination

Common Misconceptions About WPC Approval

FAQs

Q1: Can I apply for ETA Approval without importing the product yet?

A: Yes. You can apply using test reports and label images before importing.

Q2: Is RF testing compulsory even if the device is globally approved?

A: Yes. Indian RF testing is mandatory for all ETA applications.

Q3: Can one ETA certificate be used for multiple models?

A: No. ETA is issued per model, not per brand or product line.

Q4: How mch does ETA Approval cost?

A: Government does not charge for license-free bands, but lab testing and consultancy may cost ₹8,000–₹25,000 depending on complexity.

Q5: Who should apply—importer or OEM?

A: The Indian importer, brand owner, or a licensed WPC Consultant must apply.