Iraq Type Approval (Communications and Media Commission (CMC))

Type approval in Iraq is managed by the Communications and Media Commission (CMC).

Unlike many other regions that are stricter on testing and labeling, Iraq’s process is largely paper-based, relying heavily on the recognition of European standards. However, the logistical aspect (Local Representative) is strict.

1. Regulatory Authority

• Authority Name: Communications and Media Commission (CMC).

• Scope: Mandatory for all equipment using radio frequencies (wireless) and telecommunications terminal equipment.

• Jurisdiction: CMC approval is the federal requirement for Iraq.

  • Note on Kurdistan (KRG): While CMC is the federal authority, the Kurdistan region (KRG) sometimes operates with semi-autonomous import procedures. However, for the core “Type Approval” certificate, CMC is the standard. Shipments to KRG often require a parallel “Certificate of Conformity” (CoC) from an inspection agency (like Intertek or TÜV) for customs clearance, separate from the CMC frequency license.

2. Key Requirements

• Local Representative: Mandatory. You cannot apply directly as a foreign manufacturer. You must have a local Iraqi company (the Licensee) to act as the applicant.

• Testing: No in-country testing is required.

• Samples: Generally not required, though the CMC reserves the right to request them for sensitive or high-power equipment.

• Validity: 1 Year.

  • Note: Recent regulations for Short Range Devices (SRD) in late 2025 have discussed extending validity to 2 years for certain local applicants, but the standard expectation should remain 1 year unless confirmed otherwise for your specific category.

• Lead Time: 4–8 weeks (can vary depending on political stability and administrative delays).

3. Required Documentation

The process relies on “Reference Approvals” (Leveraging your existing certifications):

• Test Reports: EU (RED) technical files are the gold standard here.

  • RF (EN 300 328, EN 301 893, etc.)

  • EMC (EN 301 489 series)

  • Safety (IEC/EN 62368-1)

• LoA (Letter of Authorization): Manufacturer must authorize the local Iraqi representative.

• Product Specs: Datasheets, user manuals, and photos.

• Parity: The model name on the reports must match the application exactly.

4. Technical Frequency Notes (2025/2026 Updates)

• Wi-Fi 6E (6 GHz): Recent regulations (late 2025) have opened the 5925–6425 MHz band for indoor use (max 200mW).

• PMR 446: New regulations enforce strict adherence to 446.0–446.2 MHz (0.5W ERP) for personal mobile radios.

• Family Approval: As of 2023/2024, “Family Certification” is allowed for models with identical technical specs but different model names.

5. Labeling Requirements

• Marking: There is no specific regulatory label (like the CE mark or FCC ID) required by the CMC itself.

• Requirement: The device must simply carry its standard Brand and Model Name, which must match the certificate exactly.

• Customs: While the CMC doesn’t demand a label, customs (specifically for the ICIGI program) may require the standard commercial “Made in [Country]” markings and safety ratings on the plate.

Summary Table