South Africa - ICASA Type Approval - Overview
Our ICASA Type Approval service is designed to simplify the certification process for telecommunications and ICT equipment in South Africa, ensuring full compliance with the country's regulatory framework and technical standards.
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We provide comprehensive support to manufacturers and importers in obtaining the mandatory Type Approval certification for wireless devices, mobile phones, network equipment, and other ICT products, working alongside established partners registered with the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA).
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Our skilled team manages every step of the approval process to ensure that your products meet national safety, quality, and spectrum standards, including:
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Expert Consultation: Tailored guidance on the scope of approval, regulatory requirements, and applicable test standards for devices in South Africa.
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Fee and Charges Management: Seamless handling of all local fees and government charges associated with the Type Approval application process.
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Local Representation: Providing the necessary local representation service required under ICASA regulations.
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Process Oversight: Complete end-to-end management of the ICASA Type Approval process, ensuring smooth and timely approvals.
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Support for Renewals and Re-Approvals: Assistance with re-approval applications for devices undergoing hardware or software modifications, ensuring continued compliance
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With our efficient and reliable Type Approval service, you can confidently access South Africa’s market while meeting all regulatory requirements
South Africa ICASA Type Approval - Summary:
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Concerned Authority : Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) (https://www.icasa.org.za)
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Applicable Radio and Telecommunication Equipment Certification : South Africa ICASA Type Approval
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Required Documents:
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Technical Literature of Device (User Manual, Specifications/Data Sheet)
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Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
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RF,EMC,Health and Safety Test Reports as per applicable Test standards
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GSMA TAC Letter(for cellular devices)
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Sample Requirements: Not required.
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Approval Validity: Unlimited
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In-country Testing Requirements: No
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Local Representation : Yes, required
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Lead time : 6-8 Weeks
List of Exempt Items from South Africa Type Approval:
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N/A
South Africa ICASA Type Approval - Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]:
Q1: What is ICASA Type Approval and why is it required in South Africa?
A1: ICASA Type Approval is a mandatory certification issued by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) for telecom and radio frequency (RF) devices. It ensures products meet technical, safety, and spectrum standards before being marketed or imported. Without it, equipment may be seized and penalties imposed.
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Q2: Which devices need ICASA Type Approval before import or sale?
A2: Any device using RF spectrum or connecting to telecom networks needs approval. This includes mobile phones, tablets, Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, two-way radios, satellite terminals, and receivers—no exemptions.
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Q3: How do I apply for ICASA Type Approval in South Africa?
A3: Submit the required documents through a local representative. At Nano Technology Solutions, we handle document preparation, application submission, and follow-up with ICASA until certification.
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Q4: What documents are required for ICASA Type Approval?
A4: You need a Declaration of Conformity (DoC), Power of Attorney, technical datasheet, user manual, product photos (external & internal), CE test reports (EMC, RF, safety), TAC letter (for cellular devices), and RF sensitivity information if not covered in the reports.
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Q5: How long does it take to get ICASA Type Approval?
A5: The usual timeline is 6–8 weeks, but depending on ICASA’s workload, it can extend up to 10–12 weeks.
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Q6: Is local representation required for ICASA applications?
A6: Yes. A South African entity must submit the application. Nano Technology Solutions can act on your behalf or register your own local company for this purpose.
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Q7: What is the validity period of an ICASA Type Approval certificate?
A7: It remains valid indefinitely unless the product’s model, manufacturer, or technical specifications change. If these changes occur, you must report within 14 days or reapply.
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Q8: Do receivers and non-transmitting devices need ICASA approval?
A8: Yes—ICASA does not exempt receive-only devices, so certification is required.
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Q9: Is labeling mandatory for ICASA approved devices, and can you assist with getting the label letter?
A9: Yes, an ICASA-approved label must be affixed to both device and packaging. We can assist by requesting the Label Authorization Letter from ICASA, allowing compliant printing or labeling.
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Q10: For typical telecom and RF devices, is the ICASA certificate all I need?
A10: It depends on your device. ICASA covers telecom and radio functions, but NRCS—the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications—handles electrical and electronic safety approvals, such as LOA, EE, or RCC certificates. SABS, on the other hand, typically deals with non-telecom EMC approvals for products without RF functions.
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Q11: Who is the certificate holder, and can the importer use it directly?
A11: The ICASA certificate is issued under the name of the local representative or registered company. The manufacturer can still use that certificate for import purposes—no additional Type Approval is needed for the importer.
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Contact
Our Team Looks forward to hearing from you on your South Africa ICASA Type Approval Requirements
+92 321 437 8896