Introduction to Egypt NTRA Certification

According to the Telecommunications Regulation Law of Egypt (2003), telecommunications equipment sold or used within Egypt must undergo Type Approval certification. The National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA) is the body responsible for implementing the Type Approval process.

This certification process is commonly referred to as NTRA Certification within the industry.

NTRA has published the scope of controlled products on its website, as detailed below:

- Terminal Equipment:

  - All types of telephones

  - Fax machines (voice connection units)

  - Card/prepaid telephones

  - Various types of public/private switches

  - GSM mobile stations and phones

  - All indoor/outdoor wired/wireless IT communication devices

- Radio Communication Devices:

  - Radio transceivers

  - Satellite communication devices

  - Cordless telephones

  - Radar systems

NTRA has established two certification schemes: Light Type Approval and Tight Type Approval, typically referred to as the simple and complex procedures, respectively.

- The simple procedure applies to manufacturers from countries other than China and India.

- The complex procedure applies specifically to manufacturers from China or India.

Simple Procedure

In the simple procedure, the applicant submits compliant test reports and application forms to NTRA. Upon approval, the applicant makes payment and receives type approval.

Complex Procedure

The complex procedure involves the following steps:

1. Testing and Initial Review:

   - The applicant provides samples or submits CE reports to an NTRA-accredited laboratory for testing. Upon successful review, a Verification of Conformity (VoC) is issued.

2. Submission of Application:

   - The applicant submits the application documents and samples (only mobile phones and tablets require samples) to NTRA.

3. Production and Inspection:

   - Once approved, the applicant begins production of the first batch of goods.

   - Before shipment, the laboratory that issued the VoC conducts a pre-shipment inspection. Upon passing, a Pre-shipment Verification of Conformity (PVoC) is issued, completing the NTRA certification.

4. Ongoing Compliance:

   - For all subsequent shipments, pre-shipment inspections and PVoC issuance are required.

Approved Products Query

Certified product information can be found at:

http://www.tra.gov.eg/en/regulation/type-approval/Pages/Approved-Equipment-Lists.aspx

Labeling Requirements

Both simple and complex procedures require specific labeling:

- Simple Procedure:

  - Wireless devices must comply with CE and FCC marking requirements.

  - The packaging must also display the name of the Egyptian importer.

- Complex Procedure:

  - Detailed labeling requirements apply, particularly for mobile phones and tablets. These include displaying the following information on the product and packaging:

Label Content:

1. Brand

2. Model

3. IMEI number (only if the back cover is removable)

4. Country of origin

5. CE mark

6. WEEE symbol

7. Importer’s name (required on packaging only)

8. Serial number

For mobile phones or tablets:

- The product must display items 1-6.

- The packaging must display items 1-7.

- External batteries and chargers must display items 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6.

For other products:

- The product must display items 1-7.

- The packaging must display items 1-8.

- External batteries and chargers must display items 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6.