Japan has a well-defined regulatory framework for radio equipment, telecommunications devices, and electrical products. Certification ensures compliance with Japanese technical standards and is enforced by various ministries and agencies.
Key certification areas include:
- MIC (Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications) Certification – for wireless and telecom devices
- PSE (Product Safety Electrical Appliance & Material) Certification – for electrical products
- VCCI – for voluntary EMC compliance for IT and AV equipment
1. MIC Certification (Wireless and Telecom Equipment)
The Radio Law and Telecommunications Business Law govern radiofrequency and telecom equipment in Japan. Devices that use radio frequencies or connect to public telecom networks require certification by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) or its authorized bodies.
Products that typically require MIC certification include smartphones, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices, IoT products, and other RF transmitters.
The certification process includes:
- Testing to Japanese Radio Law technical standards at an MIC-designated test lab (in Japan or overseas)
- Filing an application with a Registered Certification Body (RCB) or MIC itself
- Labeling the device with the Japan Radio Law/MIC mark
- Obtaining Telecom approval, if applicable, for connection to Japan’s public networks
Certificate Validity: Typically valid indefinitely unless the product is modified in a way that affects RF behavior or if standards are updated.
Typical Lead Times: 6 to 12 weeks depending on testing requirements and product complexity.
2. PSE Certification (Electrical Safety for Electronic Devices)
Under the Electrical Appliance and Material Safety Law (DENAN Law), electrical appliances sold in Japan must undergo PSE (Product Safety Electrical Appliance & Material) certification. The certification is required for two categories:
- Specified Products (Category A) – require mandatory third-party certification and diamond PSE mark (e.g., power supplies, AC adapters, some household appliances)
- Non-Specified Products (Category B) – require self-declaration and circular PSE mark (e.g., computers, LED lights)
The process includes:
- Safety testing to Japanese technical standards (JIS or equivalent)
- Product registration with METI (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry)
- Local representative (In-Country Representative) required
- Affixing the appropriate PSE mark on the product
Certificate Validity:
- Category A (Specified products): 3 to 7 years depending on the product
- Category B (Non-specified): Valid as long as no changes are made to the product design
Typical Lead Times:
- Category A: 6 to 10 weeks (including testing and review)
- Category B: 2 to 6 weeks (for documentation and local registration)
3. VCCI (EMC for IT and AV Equipment)
While not mandatory, VCCI (Voluntary Control Council for Interference) is a respected voluntary EMC scheme in Japan. IT, AV, and digital devices that may emit electromagnetic noise often obtain VCCI marking to demonstrate good market practice.
- Testing is typically performed to CISPR 22/32 standards
- VCCI mark helps with commercial acceptance and customer confidence
- Membership in VCCI is required to use the mark
Certificate Validity: No expiry; ongoing as long as the product remains unchanged.
Typical Lead Times: 2 to 4 weeks if EMC testing is complete.
Customs and Market Access
Japan’s customs authorities require proof of certification (MIC, PSE) during importation. Products may be detained or rejected if proper labeling and documentation are not provided. Local representation (an In-Country Representative or importer) is required for most certification and customs clearance processes.
Closing Remarks
Certification ensures not only regulatory compliance but also consumer trust and market access. Companies planning to enter the Japanese market should budget time and resources for these approvals early in their go-to-market process. Getting certified in Japan may feel technical, but it’s essential for legal market entry and product credibility. Whether you're launching wireless gear, telecom equipment, or household electronics—compliance is your passport to Japan.
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