Mexico Regulatory Compliance: A Guide for Radio Device Manufacturers

Entering the Mexican market with radio frequency (RF) devices requires navigating both RF Type Approval (Homologation) and product safety certifications.  

This guide provides a concise overview of the process and requirements.
 
1. RF Type Approval (Homologation):

Regulatory Body: Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones (IFT) 

Local Representation: A local representative and a registered importing entity in Mexico are essential. The importer's details must be included in the certificate application, though initially, the certificate can be issued to another party and the importer/s added later. 

Key Regulations: 

NOM-208-SCFI-2016: This regulation pertains to devices employing spread spectrum techniques, including frequency hopping and digital modulation, operating within the 902-928MHz, 2400-2483.5MHz, and 5725-5850MHz frequency bands.  

IFT-011-2017: This standard applies to mobile terminal equipment operating in frequency bands not covered by NOM-208.  

Testing: 

Certification for devices that are covered by either of the above regulations necessitate testing conducted either in Mexico, Canada or at a US-based laboratory accredited under a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA). 

Note: The 5250-5725MHz frequency band as well as other frequencies for which there is not yet a telecom standard (125KHz, 13.56MHz, 315MHz, 433MHz, 10.5 GHz, 24 GHz,60 GHz or 71-86 GHz) require a separate certification process. This process is documental and may potentially leverage existing FCC or EU test reports to facilitate the approval. 

Certificate Types: IFT offers several schemes, the most common being "Sample by Product Model and Surveillance for More Than One Lot." This scheme requires one sample for testing and covers multiple production lots of the same model. Other schemes cater to single lot imports, families of products with variations, and specific devices like those for IoT. 

Process: 

 1. Engage a Local Agent: Partnering with a local agent who possesses expertise in Mexican RF compliance is a crucial first step. They will guide you through the process and ensure that all necessary documentation is prepared correctly. 

2. Compile Documentation: Gather all required technical documentation, including detailed technical specifications, comprehensive block diagrams illustrating the device's architecture, precise antenna specifications, a complete application dossier, a Letter of Authorization for your agent, and a user manual that has been accurately translated into Spanish. 

3. Testing: Your agent will arrange for device testing in accordance with the specific regulations applicable to your device's frequency band and technology.  

4. Application Submission:  Your designated local agent will formally submit the complete application package to the IFT. This package also includes essential details such as importer information, the Harmonized System (HS) Code relevant to your product, and the maximum anticipated import quantities per batch. 

5. IFT Review and Approval: The IFT will meticulously review the submitted application, including all accompanying technical documentation and test reports. The typical lead time for this review and approval process is approximately 12 weeks. 

Certificate Validity: 
RF Type Approval certificates issued by the IFT are valid indefinitely. However, to maintain the validity of some of the certificate types, a technical review must be submitted to the IFT within 90 days of the first two years of the certificate's issuance. Failure to submit this review may result in the cancellation of the certificate. 

Family Approvals: 
Devices that share the same core functionality and technical design but exhibit minor aesthetic variations can be grouped together and certified as a product family. This approach can streamline the certification process. However, it's important to note that at least two representative models from the family must undergo testing to ensure compliance across the entire range of variations. 

Labelling: 
As well as the specific labelling requirements in Mexico, the following text must appear in the user manual for all Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth devices certified by IFETEL under NOM 208 

La operación de este equipo está sujeta a las siguientes dos condiciones: 

(1) Es posible que este equipo o dispositivo no cause interferencia perjudicial y 

(2) Este equipo o dispositivo debe aceptar cualquier interferencia, incluyendo la que pueda causar su operación no deseada. 

 
2. Product Safety Certification: 

Regulatory Bodies: Product safety in Mexico is overseen by two primary regulatory bodies: the Dirección General de Normas (DGN), which is responsible for developing and maintaining safety standards, and the Secretaría de Economía (SE), which enforces these standards and issues certifications. 

Key Regulations: 

NOM-001-SCFI-2018: This standard, known as the "Norma Oficial Mexicana," serves as the primary safety standard for electronic devices that utilize household power sources. This includes devices operating on voltages up to 277V AC single-phase or 480V AC three-phase, as well as those powered by batteries or other DC power sources up to 500V. NOM-001-SCFI-2018 covers a wide spectrum of electronic devices, encompassing audio and video equipment, toys, household appliances, and more. It outlines comprehensive requirements related to electrical safety, fire hazards, mechanical hazards, and other potential safety risks. 

NOM-019-SCFI-1998: This specific safety standard focuses on data processing equipment and their associated peripherals. This category includes devices such as computers, printers, scanners, and other devices commonly used in information technology environments. NOM-019-SCFI-1998 addresses the unique safety considerations associated with these types of equipment, ensuring they meet the necessary safety standards for use in Mexico. 

Process:
 1. Determine the Applicable NOM: Carefully review your device's characteristics, functionalities and/or HS Code to ascertain which NOM applies to your product. This determination is crucial as it dictates the specific safety requirements your device must meet. Your importer will be able to advise here 

2. Select a Certified Body (CB): Choose a Certification Body (CB) that has been accredited by the Mexican authorities to conduct testing and issue certificates under the relevant NOM. It's essential to ensure that the selected CB has the necessary expertise and recognition to perform the required safety evaluations.   

3. Submit Technical Documentation: Prepare and submit a comprehensive set of technical documentation to the chosen CB. This documentation is similar to that required for RF Type Approval but with a specific focus on safety-related aspects of your device. It may include detailed schematics, component specifications, risk assessments, and other relevant information.  

4. Testing: Arrange for the necessary safety testing to be conducted by the accredited CB. In many cases, the same product samples used for RF testing can be utilized for safety testing, provided they meet the specific requirements of the applicable safety standard. This can help streamline the testing process and reduce costs. 

 5. CB Review and Approval: The CB will thoroughly review the submitted technical documentation and the results of the safety testing. If your device meets all the requirements of the applicable NOM, the CB will issue a safety certificate, confirming that your product complies with Mexican safety standards. 

Certificate Validity: The validity period of a product safety certificate in Mexico typically ranges from one to three years, depending on the specific certification scheme selected and the policies of the issuing CB. Upon expiration of the certificate, renewal is required to maintain the product's compliance status and allow for continued sale in the Mexican market. 

 
This guide provides a general overview of the regulatory landscape for radio devices in Mexico. However, given the complexity of these regulations, it's crucial to seek expert guidance tailored to your specific product to ensure full compliance with all applicable requirements. Eleos Compliance, together with our local Mexican partners are well placed to support you with a comprehensive, end to end service.