Egypt Type Approval - National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA)

Type approval in Egypt is managed by the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA).

The Egyptian system is unique because it classifies applications into three distinct “Schemes” (Light, Intermediate, Tight) based on the country of origin and the manufacturer’s credentials.

1. Regulatory Authority

• Authority Name: National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA).

• Mandate: Controls all telecom equipment imported into Egypt.

• Key Law: Telecommunication Regulation Law No. 10 of 2003.

2. The Three “Schemes” of Approval

The NTRA dictates your process based on where your factory is located and your ISO status. You cannot choose the scheme; it is assigned to you.

3. Critical Technical Updates (2025/2026)

• 3G-Only Ban (Effective Oct 1, 2025):

  • The NTRA has officially suspended type approval for devices that support only 3G.

  • Requirement: All cellular devices must support 4G (LTE). Devices supporting only 2G/3G are no longer eligible for new approvals.

• Wi-Fi 6E (6 GHz): Approved.

  • Band: 5925–6425 MHz.

  • Conditions: Indoor use only (LPI). Max power 250mW (EIRP).

  • Standard: Must follow IEEE 802.11ax standards.

• VoLTE (Voice over LTE):

  • Mandatory for all 4G-enabled voice devices.

  • Networks (Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat, WE) have fully rolled out VoLTE, and devices must be tested/verified for compatibility.

4. Key Requirements

• Local Representative: Not strictly required for the Certificate.

  • A foreign manufacturer can hold the certificate in their name.

  • However, for the Tight Scheme, the inspection and VoC process often requires coordination with the local importer who will clear the goods.

• Validity: Indefinite (Permanent).

  • Certificates do not expire unless the device is modified or regulations change (like the recent 3G ban).

• Samples:

  • Light Scheme: Usually not required.

  • Tight Scheme: Samples are often pulled during the pre-shipment inspection in China/India, or requested by the NTRA for local testing if the paperwork is insufficient.

• Lead Time:

  • Light: 4–6 weeks.

  • Tight: 8–12 weeks (due to inspection/VoC logistics).

5. Required Documentation

• Test Reports (RED/CE):

  • RF: EN 300 328 / EN 301 893.

  • EMC: EN 301 489.

  • Safety: IEC/EN 62368-1.

• ISO Certificates: Valid ISO 9001 certificate from the factory is mandatory.

• Brand Owner Letter: Authorization from the brand owner if the applicant is different.

• VoC (Tight Scheme Only): A Verification of Compliance issued by an accredited lab (e.g., CTTL, SGS) in China/India.

6. Labeling Requirements

• NTRA Mark: None.

  • There is no specific “NTRA Logo” required on the device.

• Mandatory Markings:

  • CE Mark: Must be present.

  • Country of Origin: “Made in [Country]” must be indelible (printed/etched). Stickers are often rejected or scrutinized by customs.

  • Model Name: Must match the certificate exactly.

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