In Venezuela, importing and marketing telecom and electronic products requires compliance with local regulations. The two key authorities involved are CONATEL (Comisión Nacional de Telecomunicaciones) for radio and telecom products, and SENCAMER (Servicio Autónomo Nacional de Normalización, Calidad, Metrología y Reglamentos Técnicos) for safety and quality standards.
Key certification areas include:
- Type approval for radiofrequency and telecom equipment
- Safety and EMC compliance for electronic devices
- Labeling and customs documentation
1. Type Approval for Wireless and Telecom Devices
All devices that use radio frequencies or connect to the public telecommunications network—such as mobile phones, routers, RF modules, and Bluetooth products—require type approval from CONATEL.
The process typically includes:
- Submission of technical documentation (manuals, datasheets, and test reports such as FCC/CE)
- Evaluation by CONATEL for spectrum compatibility and telecom network impact
- Issuance of a type approval certificate
- Product registration for customs purposes
Local testing is not required; international test reports are accepted, provided documentation is in Spanish or supported by a certified translation.
2. Electrical Safety and EMC Requirements
Electronic and electrical devices must meet safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards, managed by SENCAMER. Though there is no unified mandatory certification for all electronics, regulated products (e.g., home appliances, lighting, power supplies) may require:
- Declaration of Conformity or technical file based on international standards (IEC, ISO)
- Product labeling compliant with Venezuelan norms
- Spanish-language manuals and warnings for consumer-facing products
In many cases, international certifications (e.g., CE, UL) are accepted during customs procedures.
Customs and Import Requirements
For a smooth import process into Venezuela:
- Secure type approval from CONATEL for telecom/radio devices
- Provide safety/EMC documentation or a conformity declaration for electronics
- Ensure labeling and manuals are in Spanish
- Work with a local importer or legal representative for submissions and clearance
Non-compliant shipments may be delayed or denied at customs.
Closing remarks
Certification ensures not only regulatory compliance but also consumer trust and market access. Companies planning to enter the Venezuelan market should budget time and resources for these approvals early in their go-to-market process. Getting certified in Venezuela is crucial for legal distribution and customer safety. Whether you're launching wireless tech, smart devices, or household electronics—compliance is your passport to Venezuela.
