Thailand requires regulatory approvals for telecommunications, wireless equipment, and electrical products to ensure safety, spectrum efficiency, and market compliance. The two main authorities involved are the NBTC for RF/telecom equipment and the TISI for electrical safety and EMC.
1. Type Approval for Wireless and Telecom Devices
All devices using radio frequency—such as mobile phones, Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, and other wireless equipment—must be approved by NBTC before being imported or sold.
The NBTC approval process includes:
- Submission by a local representative or importer
- Documentation requirements:
- Technical specifications (frequency, RF output power, modulation)
- Test reports (NBTC accepts CE, FCC, and other recognized reports)
- Product photos and user manual
- Administrative and technical review by NBTC
- Issuance of NBTC Type Approval Certificate
Products must carry the NBTC compliance label on packaging and/or the device itself.
Certificate validity: Normally permanent, unless the product design changes or regulations are updated
Lead times: Typically 4 to 6 weeks, depending on product category and documentation completeness
2. Electrical Safety and EMC Requirements
Electrical and electronic devices must comply with TISI regulations. Some categories of products—such as power supplies, household appliances, and lighting equipment—require compulsory TISI certification, while others may be subject to voluntary standards.
Requirements include:
- Compliance with Thai Industrial Standards (TIS)
- Safety and EMC test reports (IEC-based)
- Local testing may be required for regulated products
- Application through a local entity registered with TISI
Certificate validity: Usually 3 years, renewable
Lead times: Around 6 to 8 weeks, especially if local testing is needed
Customs and Import Considerations
For importation into Thailand:
- RF and telecom devices require NBTC approval and labeling
- Electrical and electronic equipment in regulated categories require TISI certification
- A local representative or importer must handle applications
- User manuals and labels should be in Thai
- Non-compliant goods may be detained or rejected at customs
Closing remarks
Certification ensures not only regulatory compliance but also consumer trust and market access. Companies planning to enter the Thai market should budget time and resources for these approvals early in their go-to-market process. Getting certified in Thailand is essential for legal market entry and consumer safety. Whether you're launching wireless devices, consumer electronics, or network equipment—compliance is your passport to Thailand.
Need help managing Thailand approval? We are happy to guide you through it!
