Singapore's Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) mandatory certification is a statutory access requirement for telecommunications and wireless communication equipment entering the Singapore market. All telecom equipment sold or used in Singapore must be registered via IMDA certification to ensure compliance with technical standards and safety regulations.
IMDA certification is Singapore's mandatory compliance scheme for telecommunications equipment, managed by IMDA. It applies to all telecommunications and radio communication devices sold or used in Singapore, including but not limited to mobile phones, routers, Bluetooth devices, WLAN equipment, and other wireless communication products.
Note: In October 2016, the former IDA and MDA were restructured into the current IMDA and GovTech. All new certifications must follow updated IMDA regulations, including new labeling requirements.
IMDA Certification Modes & Classification:
IMDA has established three primary certification modes based on device type and risk level:
ESER and SER category devices can also be certified under the GER mode. Additionally, there are GER-CB (Certification Body's General Equipment Registration) and COFC (Conformity of Fitness for Use) classifications.
Complete List of Required Documentation for IMDA Certification:
1.Application Form
2.Product Specification Sheet
3.User Manual (English Version)
4.Test Reports:
·RF Test Report
·RF-EMC Test Report
·EMC Test Report
·Safety Test Report
5.Rating Label
6.NB Certificate (for tablets, laptops, mobile phones, etc., with 2G/3G/4G functionality)
7.Manufacturer's Module Declaration Letter (if the product contains embedded modules)
Certificate Validity Explained:
Information on IMDA certification validity varies, potentially due to different certification types or historical policy changes:
·5-Year Validity: Most sources indicate IMDA certificate validity is 5 years.
·3-Year Validity: Some sources mention a 3-year validity period.
This discrepancy may stem from different product categories or certification modes having different validity policies. Before applying, verify the specific validity period for your product category through official channels.
Key Requirements & Considerations:
1.Local Representative Requirement: Applying for IMDA certification requires a Singapore-based local representative. The applicant for equipment registration must be an equipment supplier or dealer holding a valid IMDA Telecommunications Dealer's License.
2.Labeling & Identification Requirement: Certified devices must be permanently marked: "Complies with IMDA Standards [XXXXXX-XX]", where the number in brackets is the local representative's business license number. This marking signifies the representative applied for product verification and declared RF compliance.
3.Testing & Factory Inspection: IMDA certification does not require local testing in Singapore or factory inspections. Existing reports like CE or FCC can be used for certification.
4.2024-2025 Key Policy Updates: IMDA continuously updates its technical specifications and requirements. Key recent changes include:
·3G Network Sunset & Device Ban: Singapore began phasing out its 3G network in late 2024. From February 2025, the import and sale of 3G-only mobile terminals is completely prohibited. New mobile terminals entering the market must support 4G or 5G networks.
·SIM Box Regulation: Effective February 1, 2025**, SMS SIM boxes housing 5 or more SIM card slots are classified as prohibited telecommunications equipment and cannot be imported without prior IMDA approval. This primarily targets bulk scam SMS operations.
·Cellular Mobile Terminal Technical Specs Update (Dec 2024): IMDA published Revision 3 of IMDA TS CMT, including:
Added 5G NR band support (n257/n258/n261)
Clarified that VoLTE functionality must be enabled by default to ensure voice call quality
Updated RF EMF testing standards, e.g., IEC/EN 62209-1528:2020
5.Short-Range Device Technical Specs Update: IMDA updated its SRD technical specification (IMDA TS SRD), key changes:
·Added Wi-Fi 6E band (5.945-6.425 GHz)
·Expanded the 920-925 MHz band to 917-925 MHz
·This update took effect **September 1, 2023.
6.Application Distribution Service Security Guidelines:
·IMDA published these guidelines, requiring designated app stores to implement age verification mechanisms and security protection measures. They took effect March 31, 2025.
·Affected app stores include Apple App Store, Google Play Store, Huawei AppGallery, Microsoft Store, and Samsung Galaxy Store.
Singapore's IMDA certification is a mandatory market access system for telecom products, featuring clear classification management, validity periods, and labeling requirements. The process is relatively streamlined but must be conducted through a locally licensed dealer representative. When preparing for certification, consult IMDA directly or professional agencies like BLUEASIA (+86 13534225140) for the latest, most accurate requirements and processes.
