The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) certification is a mandatory requirement for telecommunications and radio equipment entering the Singapore market.
This guide details the applicable products, certification process, new 2025 policy updates, and compliance strategies to help businesses complete IMDA certification efficiently and avoid costly delays.
Regulatory Body: Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), Singapore
Certification Nature: Mandatory for all telecommunications, wireless, and wired devices sold or used in Singapore
Core Requirements: Devices must meet IMDA’s technical specifications — including Radio Frequency (RF), Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC), and Safety Compliance
Certificate Validity: 3 years (renewal required upon expiry)
Localization Requirement: Foreign applicants must appoint a Singapore-registered local representative (registrant)
Radio Communication Equipment: Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, wireless modules
Cellular Network Equipment: 2G/3G/4G/5G modules, mobile phones, tablets
IoT Devices: Smart home products (e.g., cameras, refrigerators, wearables)
Other Telecom Equipment: Walkie-talkies, modems, fax machines, microphones
ESER (Enhanced Simplified Equipment Registration):
For low-power short-range devices (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi).
✅ No fee, based on Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC)
SER (Simplified Equipment Registration):
For medium-risk products like mobile phones or tablets.
GER (General Equipment Registration):
For high-risk or unlisted devices (e.g., base stations).
Requires submission of complete test reports and technical documents.
Check the IMDA Telecommunication Equipment List to identify your product category.
Refer to the latest technical specifications (TS SRD, TS CMT, etc.) applicable to your product type.
Testing must be conducted in IMDA-recognized laboratories covering:
RF Testing: Frequency bands, transmit power, bandwidth (e.g., Wi-Fi 6E supports 5.945–6.425 GHz)
EMC Testing: Ensures the device does not interfere with other equipment
Safety Testing: IEC 62368-1 compliance, especially for mobile or smart devices
Testing Duration: approximately 2–4 weeks
Apply via IMDA’s Telecommunication Equipment Registration System (TERS)
Upload:
Application Form & Technical Specs
Test Reports (RF/EMC/Safety)
English User Manual & Label Design
Local Representative Authorization
Timeline: Typically 2–4 weeks with complete documentation
IMDA may request additional clarifications if required
Certified equipment must bear the “IMDA Approved” label with the dealer’s registration code
IMDA conducts market sampling audits; non-compliant products may be banned from sale
Cellular Devices (CMT):
Added 5G NR bands (n257/n258/n261)
VoLTE must be enabled by default
3G-only devices banned from Feb 2025
Short-Range Devices (SRD):
Wi-Fi 6E band expanded to 5.945–6.425 GHz
920–925 MHz band extended to 917–925 MHz
Cybersecurity Requirement:
Cellular devices must meet TS CD-SEC for firmware updates, authentication, and access control
SMS SIM Box Restriction (effective Feb 1, 2025):
Devices with 5 or more SIM slots are classified as prohibited telecom goods.
Import requires IMDA prior approval.
Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC):
Expanded to include low-risk IoT devices, simplifying document review and reducing processing time.
Q1: Do Bluetooth/Wi-Fi modules require separate certification?
✅ Yes. Each module must be certified individually even if embedded in a final product.
Q2: What happens if certification fails?
✅ Modify product design (e.g., RF tuning) based on IMDA feedback and re-test.
Q3: How long does IMDA certification take?
✅ Approximately 4–8 weeks, depending on complexity and document readiness.
Save Costs:
ESER registration = no fee
Use existing CB scheme reports (with Singapore national differences)
Shorten Timelines:
Prepare technical documents early
Choose IMDA-recognized labs to avoid re-testing
Uncertified Sales: May lead to product seizure, fines, or criminal charges
Incorrect Labeling: Missing registration code can invalidate certification
To ensure smooth market access in Singapore, companies should focus on:
✅ Early Planning — confirm product classification & standards (5G, 3G sunset)
✅ Local Representation — appoint a qualified Singapore registrant
✅ Strict Testing Compliance — follow RF, EMC, and safety standards precisely
✅ Dynamic Monitoring — keep up with IMDA’s latest policy updates
Q1: Is IMDA certification mandatory for all imported devices?
A1: Yes. All telecom, wireless, and IoT devices must be certified before sale or use in Singapore.
Q2: How long is the IMDA certificate valid?
A2: Valid for 3 years, renewable upon expiry.
Q3: What happens if a certified product changes design?
A3: Significant design changes (e.g., chipset, antenna) require re-evaluation or new certification.
Q4: Are imported refurbished devices allowed?
A4: Only if they meet current IMDA standards and are re-registered before sale.
Q5: What are the penalties for selling uncertified equipment?
A5: IMDA may impose fines, confiscation, or import bans on violators.
For professional IMDA certification consultation and compliance assistance:
BLUEASIA Certification Consulting Services
Tel: +86 13534225140
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
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