DataX International has been evaluating the approval needs of radio products in Bhutan, with support from Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA) Department under the Regulatory and Inspection Authority in Motithang, Bhutan. These rules are supervised by BICMA (Bhutan InfoMedia and Communication Authority), an autonomous government institution, established under the Information, Communication and Media Act of Bhutan 2018. Leave everything to our experts, with an expertise in the current regulatory environment, and we will guide you through each step ensuring there are no hiccups for your smooth market entry into Bhutan.
Leveraging decades of experience in global market access and product homologation, the team can share insights on local standards and compliance needs. Leverage our proven experience to confidently power through the regulatory pathway.
| Concerned Authority | BICMA (Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority) |
| Requirement | Mandatory |
| Certification Validity Period | Permanent Validity |
| In-Country Testing | Not Required |
| In-Country Representation | Not Required |
| Average Time to Get Type Approval | 2-4 Weeks |
| Labelling Requirement | Mandatory |
| Country Calling Code | +975 |
| Capital | Thimphu |
| Currency | Bhutanese Ngultrum |
| Population | 800k |
What is BICMA Type Approval in Bhutan, and Why Does Your Product Need It?
The Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA) is the regulating authority to ensure safety with ICT equipment used in Bhutan along with providing quality assurance. To ensure interoperability and safety, they have issued detailed Type Approval rules for radio and telecommunications equipment.
These regulations primarily aim at making ICT devices capable of interworking and interconnected with any communications networks, as well as preventing damage to public telecommunications network or public health. They also intend to pre-register ICT equipment and ensure quality assurance while identifying relevant technical standards.
Items exempted from BICMA Type Approval
Any ICT equipment to be used in Bhutan must either get Type Approval from BICMA or meet exceptions mentions in their regulations. Exempt equipment consists of:
- Mobile phones
- Telephone handsets
- Wireless data modems
- Wireless equipment with an output power less than 100mW -Wireless equipment within personal computers
- CCTV systems
- Cordless audio devices
- Amateur radio equipment
- GPS devices
- Satellite dishes
- Remote car keys
- Vehicle tracking systems
- Security devices
- Remote controls
- Access control systems
- Alarms and motion detectors
Simplifying the BICMA Type Approval Process
An applicant shall submit a complete application package for BICMA Type Approval Certificate which is inclusive of: Valid Business License, Manufacturer’s Declaration of Conformity, Test reports from internationally accredited laboratories recognized by BICMA, and Interconnection with National Telecommunications Network Certificate, but, for international applicants it must also be accompanied a proof of payment. Interestingly enough, BICMA does not even ask for product samples together with the Type Approval application.
Validity for BICMA Type Approval: Key Conditions to Know
In Bhutan, Type Approval for RTTE is issued with unlimited validity, provided that no changes have been made to the type-approved equipment. But any change in the name of the manufacturing brand, product, model number and functions or details provided to the Authority an approval must be sought.
On receipt of strong evidence that RTTE is liable to cause interference with any licensed communication network or it is a public hazard; BICMA may nullify Type Approval.
How DataX International Simplifies the BICMA Approval Process
Our end-to-end Type Approval solution for Bhutan against BICMA regulation includes:
- Advice and consult, for approval scope along with testing standards applicable in Bhutan.
- Handling of all applicable local customs duties, taxes and other governmental charges that relate to an import pertaining to Type Approval applications.
- Full control and Management of Bhutan Type Approval
- Continued support for BICMA re-approvals in the event of changes to previously approved equipment.
Bhutan BICMA Type Approval – FAQs
Q1: What is BICMA Type Approval in Bhutan?
It is a mandatory regulatory certification managed by the Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA). Any wireless, radio, telecommunications, or ICT equipment must be officially approved by BICMA before it can be legally imported, distributed, or sold in Bhutan.
Q2: Is local laboratory testing or product sampling required in Bhutan?
No. BICMA does not require local in-country laboratory testing or physical product samples. The authority operates on a Type Approval recognition basis, meaning they directly evaluate and accept international test reports from accredited foreign labs.
Q3: Which international test standards are accepted by BICMA Bhutan?
BICMA officially recognizes and accepts technical test reports based on international standards, primarily CE (RED – Radio Equipment Directive) and FCC conformity certifications. Your reports must cover RF (Radio Frequency), EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility), and Safety parameters.
Q4: What is the typical processing time (Lead Time) for BICMA approval?
The standard lead time to obtain a BICMA Type Approval certificate is between 2 to 4 weeks, provided that all technical files, test reports, and application forms are complete and accurate at the time of submission.
Q5: What is the validity period of a Bhutan BICMA certificate?
A standard BICMA Type Approval certificate has Permanent (Lifetime) Validity for the specific approved model number, under the condition that no technical, hardware, or core RF configuration changes are made to the device later.
Q6: Is a local representative mandatory for the application process?
Depending on the application route and product category, BICMA may require applications to be submitted through a locally registered Bhutanese entity. Applicants should verify the current requirement at the time of filing.
Q7: What are the mandatory documents required for a BICMA application?
The technical dossier must contain the following documents:
- Accredited international RF, EMC, and Safety test reports.
- The manufacturer’s official Declaration of Conformity (DoC).
- Product technical data sheets, user manuals, and operational descriptions.
- High-resolution internal and external photographs of the device.
Let your BICMA Type Approval in Bhutan be handled by DataX International so you can save time from dealing with it on your own. Email to us today at info@dataxinternational.com.