How to Apply for WPC ETA Certificate Online (Step-by-Step Process) – 2026 Guide

If you want to import or sell wireless products in India - like Bluetooth speakers, Wi-Fi routers, smartwatches, or wireless cameras - you must get a WPC ETA certificate first. Many businesses don’t know this rule. Because of that, their goods get stuck at customs, causing delays, extra costs, and stress. Most problems happen simply because the application is done incorrectly or important documents are missing.

The good news is the process is now online and much simpler in 2026. If you understand who needs approval, what documents are required, and the correct steps to apply, you can avoid delays and start selling without trouble.

What Is WPC ETA Certificate?

WPC ETA (Equipment Type Approval) is an approval issued by the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) Wing under the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India.

It confirms that a wireless product operates on license-exempt frequency bands approved for use in India.

In simple words:
👉 If your device uses radio frequency (RF), it must be approved before import or sale.

What Is ETA Approval?

ETA (Equipment Type Approval) certifies that:

✔ The device uses permitted frequency bands
✔ RF output is within allowed limits
✔ The product is safe for public use
✔ The device does not interfere with licensed networks

Without ETA approval, customs can stop or reject your shipment.

Which Products Need WPC ETA Certificate?

Any product with wireless or RF technology needs ETA approval.

Common examples

➜ Bluetooth devices (earbuds, speakers, keyboards)

➜ Wi-Fi routers and access points

➜ Smart watches and fitness bands

➜ Wireless cameras and CCTV systems

➜ RFID devices

➜ Zigbee devices

➜ Wireless printers

➜ IoT products

➜ Drone controllers (depending on frequency)

If a device transmits or receives radio signals — ETA is required.

Who Needs to Apply for WPC ETA?

ETA approval is required for:

• Importers of wireless devices
• Manufacturers in India using RF modules
• Brand owners selling wireless products
• E-commerce sellers importing electronics
• Traders importing smart gadgets

Even if the product is already approved in another country, India requires separate ETA approval.

Benefits of Getting WPC ETA Certificate

◾ Smooth customs clearance
◾ Legal import and sale in India
◾ Avoid penalties or product seizure
◾ Builds trust with buyers
◾ Required for BIS certification in many cases
◾ Ensures radio compliance

Documents Required for WPC ETA Online Application

Before applying, keep these documents ready:

Mandatory documents

→ RF Test Report from NABL accredited lab

→ Product technical specification sheet

→ Frequency range details

→ Authorization letter (if applying through consultant)

→ Import Export Code (IEC)

→ Company GST certificate

→ Company PAN

→ Product user manual

→ Product label details

Important note

RF test report must clearly mention:

⁃ Operating frequency band
⁃ Output power
⁃ Modulation type

Incomplete reports often cause rejection.

Types of WPC ETA Approval

There are mainly two ways to obtain ETA:

1. Self Declaration (Online ETA)

Used when device operates on license-free frequency bands.

Most common method in 2026.

2. Regular ETA (Testing by WPC)

Required if frequency is not clearly license-exempt or needs verification.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for WPC ETA Certificate Online

Here is the updated 2026 online procedure.

Step 1 — Check Device Frequency

Verify whether your product uses license-exempt frequency bands in India.

Common approved bands:

• 2.4 GHz
• 5 GHz (specific ranges)
• 865–867 MHz (RFID)

If unsure, consult RF expert before applying.

Step 2 — Get RF Test Report

Testing must be done from:

✔ NABL accredited Indian lab
OR
✔ International lab with proper compliance standards

Make sure the report clearly shows frequency and power output.

Step 3 — Create Account on Saral Sanchar Portal

Visit:

👉 https://saralsanchar.gov.in

Register using:

• Company details
• Mobile number
• Email ID

This is the official portal for WPC ETA applications.

Step 4 — Login and Select ETA Application

After login:

✔ Choose “Equipment Type Approval”
✔ Select Self Declaration option (if applicable)

Step 5 — Fill Application Form

Provide:

• Applicant details
• Product model number
• Frequency range
• Output power
• Technology used (Bluetooth / Wi-Fi etc.)

Fill carefully — mistakes cause delays.

Step 6 — Upload Required Documents

Upload scanned copies of:

✔ RF test report
✔ Authorization letter
✔ Product details
✔ Company documents

Ensure documents are clear and readable.

Step 7 — Pay Government Fee

Pay application fee online through portal.

Fee may vary depending on product category.

Step 8 — Application Review by WPC

Authorities verify:

✔ Frequency compliance
✔ Technical parameters
✔ Document accuracy

If clarification is needed, they raise queries online.

Step 9 — ETA Certificate Issued

Once approved, ETA certificate is issued online.

You can download it from the portal.

Processing time usually:
👉 7 to 15 working days (if documents are correct)

Validity of WPC ETA Certificate

ETA approval generally does not expire for the same model.

But fresh approval is needed if:

▪ Product model changes
▪ Frequency changes
▪ Hardware modification occurs

How Long Does WPC ETA Approval Take in 2026?

Typical processing time:

• 7–10 working days (complete application)
• 10–20 days if queries raised

Incorrect documents can delay approval significantly.

Can Foreign Manufacturers Apply Directly?

Foreign companies cannot directly apply.

They must apply through:

✔ Indian importer
✔ Authorized representative

Is WPC ETA Required Before Import?

Yes. Importing without ETA can result in:

• Shipment hold at customs
• Penalty
• Product confiscation

Always obtain approval before shipment arrives.

Practical Example

If you import Bluetooth earbuds from China:

‣ Check frequency 2.4 GHz
‣ Obtain RF test report
‣ Apply online on Saral Sanchar
‣ Get ETA certificate
‣ Import legally

Simple when done correctly.

Why Many Importers Face Problems

Most delays happen because people assume:

⚠ CE certification is enough

⚠ Product works worldwide so India approval not needed

⚠ Distributor will handle compliance

⚠ These assumptions cause major losses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many applications get delayed due to simple errors.

Avoid these problems

❌ Incorrect frequency details
❌ Unclear RF test report
❌ Applying under wrong category
❌ Missing authorization letter
❌ Product model mismatch
❌ Incomplete technical specifications

Always verify documents before submission.

Need Help With WPC ETA Certificate?

Understanding RF rules and documentation can be confusing, especially for first-time importers.

PSR Compliance helps businesses apply for WPC ETA correctly and avoid delays.

📞 Call: 7065883416

Get proper guidance and make your import process smooth and compliant.

FAQs on WPC ETA Certificate

1. What is WPC ETA certification?

WPC Equipment Type Approval (ETA) is a mandatory certification issued by the WPC wing of DoT for wireless devices operating in India.

2. Is WPC ETA mandatory in India?

Yes, WPC ETA is compulsory for importing, selling, or using RF-enabled wireless products in India.

3. Which products require WPC ETA approval?

All radio frequency devices such as Bluetooth products, Wi-Fi routers, IoT devices, drones, and wireless accessories require WPC ETA.

4. Why is WPC ETA required?

WPC ETA ensures wireless products operate within approved frequency bands and do not cause harmful interference.

5. Does a BIS-certified product also need WPC ETA?

Yes, BIS ensures product safety while WPC ETA ensures wireless frequency compliance.

6. What documents are required for WPC ETA certification?

An RF test report, company registration details, GST certificate, product datasheet, and authorization letter are required.

7. How can I apply for WPC ETA certification?

Applications must be submitted online through the Saral Sanchar Portal of the Department of Telecommunications.

8. How long does WPC ETA approval take?

Approval generally takes 8–12 weeks for standard products and up to 20 weeks for complex devices.

9. What is the validity of a WPC ETA certificate?

WPC ETA has lifetime validity unless there is a change in product specifications or model.

10. What happens if I import products without WPC ETA?

Importing without valid WPC ETA can lead to customs detention, penalties, or seizure of goods.