Canada enforces strict compliance rules for wireless communications, telecom, and electrical/electronic equipment to ensure spectrum efficiency, consumer safety, and product reliability. The two main authorities are Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) for RF/telecom equipment and the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) with accredited Certification Bodies for electrical safety.
1. Type Approval for Wireless and Telecom Devices
Any product that emits radiofrequency—such as smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, and other wireless modules—requires approval by ISED before entering the Canadian market.
The ISED approval process includes:
- Testing of the product to ISED technical standards (RSS standards for radio, ICES for EMC)
- Submission of test reports through a Certification Body (CB) recognized by ISED
- Issuance of an ISED Certification Number (IC Number)
- Proper labeling with the IC number and compliance statements
Certificate validity: Certificates are typically permanent, as long as the product design does not change
Lead times: Usually 4 to 6 weeks, depending on testing and certification body review
2. Electrical Safety and EMC Requirements
Electrical and electronic devices must meet Canadian safety and EMC requirements before being sold. Safety certification is generally managed through SCC-accredited Certification Bodies such as CSA, UL, ETL, or TUV.
Requirements include:
- Testing to applicable Canadian Electrical Code standards (CSA standards)
- Certification mark (CSA, ULc, ETLc, etc.) must be affixed to products
- EMC compliance under ICES standards (part of ISED regulations)
Certificate validity: Certificates are generally permanent, unless standards are updated or the product changes
Lead times: Around 6 to 8 weeks, especially if testing is required
Customs and Import Considerations
To import and sell products in Canada:
- Wireless and telecom devices require ISED certification and labeling
- Electrical and electronic devices require certification from an SCC-accredited body
- Labels and manuals must be in both English and French (bilingual requirement)
- Importers must ensure ongoing compliance, as random audits are possible
Non-certified or mislabeled products may be refused entry or recalled.
Closing remarks
Certification ensures not only regulatory compliance but also consumer trust and market access. Companies planning to enter the Canadian market should budget time and resources for these approvals early in their go-to-market process. Getting certified in Canada is essential for legal entry and consumer safety. Whether you're launching wireless gadgets, telecom infrastructure, or household electronics—compliance is your passport to Canada.
Need help managing Canada approval? We are happy to guide you through it!
