What Is BOCRA Type Approval in Botswana and Why Do We Need It? Background, Requirements and Process Overview

1. Introduction

BOCRA Type Approval is a required certification for any radio frequency (RF) or telecom equipment that’s intended to be sold, imported, or used in Botswana. This process ensures devices meet national safety, technical, and spectrum standards, as regulated by the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA).

We take full ownership of the BOCRA Type Approval process—from reviewing your documents to securing certification—so your products enter Botswana’s market smooth and compliant.

2. Who Needs BOCRA Type Approval?

If you're a manufacturer, importer, or distributor of telecom or RF devices destined for Botswana, you must obtain BOCRA Type Approval before marketing or using them. Without it, devices may be refused while importing and can result in penalties.

3. Which Devices Require Type Approval?

BOCRA mandates approval for any equipment that:

• Uses the radio frequency spectrum

• Connects to telecom networks

• Transmits or receives signals

This includes:

• Mobile phones and tablets

• Wi-Fi routers, modems, and Bluetooth gadgets

• Radio transmitters and receivers

• Network infrastructure and IoT hardware

 Please note: BOCRA currently issues approvals even for “exempted” devices because the exemption framework isn’t fully implemented yet. That means you still need a formal certificate even for items like receivers only until the exemption system is completely implemented.

4. BOCRA Certification Process Overview

Here’s how the process works:

Step 1: Submit Your Documents to Nanotechnology Solutions

Send us your User Manual, Technical Datasheet, Declaration of Conformity (DoC), RF/EMC/Safety test reports, and TAC letter (if applicable). We'll handle the rest.

Step 2: We Submit to BOCRA

Our team handles the entire process—from reviewing all documents and preparing the application form to submitting your application to BOCRA. We ensure consistent follow-up, manage all communications with the regulators on your behalf, and keep you fully informed throughout each stage of the application.

Step 3: BOCRA Reviews & Issues Certificate

Once approved, you receive a permanent Type Approval certificate—typically within 2 to 4

weeks.

5. Required Documents

To get started, please prepare:

• User Manual

• Technical Datasheet

• Declaration of Conformity (DoC)

• Test Reports for RF, EMC, and Safety

• TAC Letter (for cellular devices)

Test reports should be from ILAC accredited labs. Share your reports with us—we’ll confirm if they meet BOCRA’s requirements.

6. Local Representation

BOCRA does not require local representation in Botswana to submit the application. Still local representative is required to support the application process, for which, we have our local team in Botswana, ready to support you with your BOCRA Type Approval process.

7. Certificate Validity and Updates

Your BOCRA Type Approval certificate is valid indefinitely, unless:

• The model or manufacturer’s details changes

• Technical specifications (like frequency or interface) change

In such cases, you must submit a new application.

8. Exemptions and the Current Status

Generally, in Botswana, receiver only devices like receiving only amplifier and DAB Box etc are exempt but as the exemption system is not completely in place as of now the authority issues type approval for the exempted devices. It is encouraged to receive the type approval for the exempted items for smoother custom clearance.

10. Legal Consequences of Non‑Compliance

Importing or selling non-approved equipment in Botswana can lead to:

• Customs seizures

• Fines

• Market bans

Working with Nanotechnology Solutions helps you avoid these risks and ensures seamless approval.

We offer complete end-to-end BOCRA Type Approval services for Botswana. From document preparation and review to final certification, we’ve got your back every step of the way.