SONCAP Certificate of Conformity (SC) Certification: Documents & Validity — 2025 Guide

1️⃣ Overview

The SONCAP Certificate of Conformity (SC) is a mandatory document required for clearing regulated goods through Nigerian Customs.
This 2025 guide explains the required documents, validity rules, and key updates — helping exporters and importers ensure smooth customs clearance under the latest SON regulations.

2️⃣ SONCAP Certificate: Key Facts at a Glance

Quick Insight:
The SONCAP (SC) is not a reusable document. Each shipment requires its own certificate, even if products and suppliers remain the same.

3️⃣ Required Documents for SC Application

To successfully apply for a SONCAP Certificate, the following seven key documents must be prepared and submitted:

1️⃣ SC Application Form — Must be completed and stamped by the applicant.
2️⃣ Declaration of Conformity — Must be hand-signed and stamped by the manufacturer or exporter.
3️⃣ Product Certificate (PC) — Provide an electronic copy of a valid PC (PC1 / PC2 / PC3).
4️⃣ Form M — Electronic copy issued by the Nigerian importer’s bank.
5️⃣ Power of Attorney — Required in English language.
6️⃣ Commercial Documents — Packing List and Commercial Invoice for the shipment.
7️⃣ Bill of Lading — Copy of the shipping document issued by the carrier.

Tip: Double-check all document details (name, model, quantity) — inconsistencies cause the most frequent SONCAP delays.

4️⃣ SC Certification Process Explained

The SONCAP certification process involves three key stages, combining both exporter and importer actions:

Step 1: Obtain Product Certificate (PC)

Before applying for the SC, exporters must obtain a Product Certificate from a SON-approved inspection body.

• Choose the correct type (PC1 / PC2 / PC3) based on your shipment frequency.

• The PC is typically valid for 1 year.

• Testing must be done in an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory.

Step 2: Importer Applies for Form M

After the PC is issued, the Nigerian importer applies for Form M at their local bank.
This is a mandatory requirement for all regulated products before shipment.

Step 3: Apply for the SC Certificate

Once the goods are shipped, submit all required documents to the SON-approved inspection body.

Typical Timeline:

• SC Review & Issuance: Within 1 business day (if documents are complete).

• Full Process (including PC & Form M): Typically 2–6 weeks depending on product complexity.

5️⃣ 2025 Electronic System Upgrade

 In 2025, Nigeria upgraded its certification infrastructure by integrating SONCAP with the NICIS (Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System).

 Key Improvements:

• Faster electronic verification of certificates

• Reduced processing time at customs

• Lower risk of forgery or document tampering

• Transparent communication between SON, banks, and importers

Benefit: Exporters can now track and verify SC certificates online — enhancing efficiency and compliance confidence.

6️⃣ Important Notes for Exporters

1. Severe Consequences of Missing SONCAP Certificate
If your goods arrive in Nigeria without a valid SONCAP certificate:

• They will be detained by customs, preventing clearance.

• Goods may be sampled and tested at the trader’s expense.

• Non-compliant shipments risk confiscation or destruction.

2. Maintain Document Consistency
Ensure the same product name, model, and specification appear across all documents — from test reports to SC applications — to avoid delays.

7️⃣ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Does the SONCAP certificate expire?
No. Each SC is valid only for one shipment. Once used, it cannot be reused or renewed.

Q2: Who should apply for the SC — exporter or importer?
Typically, the exporter or manufacturer initiates the SC process in coordination with the importer.

Q3: Can the SC be issued before shipment?
No. The SC is only issued after shipment, once all documents (including Bill of Lading) are available.

Q4: Is the SONCAP system fully electronic in 2025?
Yes. Nigeria has fully transitioned to an electronic certification and verification system under SONCAP-NICIS.

8️⃣ Why Work with BLUEASIA

Working with a trusted compliance partner like BLUEASIA ensures:
✅ Smooth communication with SON and authorized inspection bodies
✅ Guidance on selecting the correct PC type (PC1 / PC2 / PC3)
✅ Document review to prevent rejection or delays
✅ On-time SC issuance and customs clearance support

9️⃣ Contact BLUEASIA for Professional Assistance

Phone / WeChat: +86 13534225140
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com

BLUEASIA provides end-to-end SONCAP certification consulting — from document preparation and product testing to customs coordination — ensuring your goods enter Nigeria smoothly and compliantly.