Nigeria's SONCAP certification is a mandatory customs clearance requirement for exports to the country. To help you quickly grasp the essentials, the table below summarizes the latest certification process and key changes as of 2025.
Aspect 2025 Key
PointsCertification StructureTwo-step process: First obtain the Product Certificate (PC), then apply for the SonCAP Certificate (SC) for each shipment.
Core New Regulation Implementation of an electronic certification system, integrated with customs, to expedite clearance and prevent certificate forgery.
Application Entity PC and SC certificates are applied for by the exporter, while the Form M must be processed locally by the Nigerian Importer.
Key TimelinePC certificate review: 2-4 weeks; SC certificate: ~1 business day after complete documents are submitted.
Consequence of Non-Compliance Goods arriving without a valid certificate will be detained by customs, cannot clear; risk of sampling, confiscation, or destruction.
Detailed SONCAP Certification Process:
1. Obtain Product Certificate (PC Certificate)
This is the foundation of the certification, proving your product complies with Nigerian standards. Choose the most suitable certificate type based on your annual shipment frequency.
| Certificate Type | Characteristics & Applicable | ScenariosCore Application Documents | Subsequent Shipment Inspection |
| PC1 (Unregistered) | Valid for 6 months, single use only, requires inspection. Suitable for products with many models shipping ≤1 time/year. | Application form, CNAS lab test report. | Inspection required for every shipment. |
| PC2 (Registered) | Valid for 1 year, unlimited use during validity. Suitable for most non-high-risk regulated products. | Application form, CNAS lab test report, ISO 9001 certificate. | Inspection required for ≥40% of shipments. |
| PC3 (Licensed) | Valid for 1 year, unlimited use during validity, requires factory audit. Suitable for high-risk products with frequent shipments. | Application form, CNAS lab test report, ISO 9001 certificate, factory audit report. | Inspection and monitoring at least once every six months. |
Key Step: Product Testing
Before applying for the PC, products must be tested at an accredited laboratory with ISO 17025资质 (accreditation) to obtain a compliant test report.
2. Importer Obtains Form M
After receiving the PC, your Nigerian Importer must use this document to apply for a Form M (Import Duty Exemption Certificate) through their local bank or the "Nigeria Trade Portal." This is mandatory for the SC application. The Form M is valid for 180 days from issuance and can be extended.
3. Apply for SonCAP Certificate (SC Certificate)
After shipping the goods, apply for the SC certificate for each individual shipment. This is the legal document for Nigerian customs clearance.
·Required Core Documents:
SC Application Form (must be stamped)
Statement of Conformity (must be handwritten signature & stamped)
Valid PC Certificate
Form M
Power of Attorney (must be in English)
Commercial Invoice and Packing List
Bill of Lading copy
Applicable Products & Standard Requirements:
1.Product Scope:
Almost all products imported into Nigeria require SONCAP certification, except for specific exemptions like food, pharmaceuticals, certain medical supplies, military items, etc.
2.Key Standards & Localization Requirements:
·Technical Standards: Products must comply with Nigerian Standards (NIS) or relevant international standards. E.g., household appliance safety tests often adopt IEC 60335-1; EMC tests must comply with CISPR 32.
·Localization: Electronic products must be compatible with Nigeria's 230V/50Hz voltage and must use British Standard BS 1363 (3-pin flat plug) or BS 546 (round pin plug).
·Labeling: Products or packaging must be marked with "SONCAP Certified" and the Nigerian Importer's address.
⚠️ Important Reminders & Risk Warnings:
1.Plan Ahead: The PC certificate review takes 2-4 weeks; start the process early. All certificates must be obtained before goods arrive at a Nigerian port.
2.Ensure Information Consistency: Product names, models, specifications, etc., must be identical across all documents - from test reports to PC and SC certificates and Form M. Any discrepancy can cause certification failure or clearance delays.
We hope this overview incorporating the latest 2025 information helps you successfully navigate Nigeria's SONCAP certification. If your product belongs to a specific category (e.g., appliances, construction materials), BLUEASIA can provide more targeted standard information.
BLUEASIA: +86 13534225140, provides professional certification consulting services!
相关新闻
