General Equipment Registration (GER)
The General Equipment Registration (GER) is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for the registration of various communication devices, including Mobile/IoT Base Stations and walkie-talkies. The licence is valid for 5 years, with processing typically completed within 10 working days.
- Validity
- 5 years
- Processing time
- within the next 10 working days
- Issuing authority
- INFOCOMM MEDIA DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (IMDA)
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Who needs the General Equipment Registration (GER)
This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:
- Required to operateDivision 61 — TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Includes: 61010 Telecommunications network operation, 61011 Wired telecommunications network operation, 61012 Mobile cellular and other wireless telecommunications network operation, 61013 Satellite telecommunications network operation
- Required to operateDivision 26 — MANUFACTURE OF COMPUTER, ELECTRONIC AND OPTICAL PRODUCTS
Includes: 26111 Manufacture of discrete devices, 26112 Semiconductor wafer fabrication, 26113 Assembly and testing of semiconductors, 26114 Manufacture of solar wafers
What's involved in getting the General Equipment Registration (GER)
The scope of the application — what must be in place, how the agency reviews, and where applications typically stall.
What this licence allows the business to do
The General Equipment Registration (GER) enables businesses to legally operate and register various communication devices in Singapore, including Mobile/IoT Base Stations, walkie-talkies, and other short-range devices that require IMDA's approval.
What must be in place before the licence can be granted
Before the GER can be granted, the business must ensure that the equipment falls under the categories specified by IMDA. This includes having the necessary technical specifications and compliance with relevant regulations. Additionally, businesses should be aware that while registration is optional for certain equipment under the SER/ESER scheme, it may still be subject to registration fees under the GER scheme.
How the agency reviews and decides
The IMDA reviews applications for GER by assessing the technical compliance of the equipment with existing regulations. This may involve evaluating the specifications and intended use of the devices to ensure they meet the necessary standards for operation in Singapore.
Common reasons applications stall
Applications for the General Equipment Registration can stall for several reasons. Common issues include incomplete documentation, failure to meet technical specifications, or discrepancies in the equipment's intended use versus its actual capabilities. Ensuring that all required information is accurate and complete can help prevent delays in the approval process.
Required documents and prerequisites
Items the applicant typically needs ready before submitting:
- General Equipment Registration (GER)
- Please refer to https://iris.imda.gov.sg/application/general-equipment-registration-(ger)
General Equipment Registration (GER) FAQ
Do I need this licence to start operating my communication devices?
Yes, the General Equipment Registration is mandatory for operating specific communication devices in Singapore. Without this licence, businesses may face legal penalties and be unable to use their equipment.
What can my business do once licensed?
Once registered under the General Equipment Registration, your business can legally operate and utilize various communication devices, including Mobile/IoT Base Stations and walkie-talkies, in compliance with IMDA regulations.
What happens if I operate without it?
Operating communication devices without the General Equipment Registration can lead to legal repercussions, including fines and the potential confiscation of equipment. It is crucial to ensure compliance with IMDA regulations to avoid such risks.
How does this fit relative to incorporating my company?
The General Equipment Registration is a separate requirement from incorporating a company. While incorporation is necessary for establishing a business entity, obtaining the GER is essential for legally operating specific communication devices within that entity.
What's the most common reason applications get rejected?
The most common reason for rejection of GER applications is incomplete documentation or failure to meet the technical specifications required by IMDA. Ensuring that all necessary information is provided and compliant can help mitigate this risk.
Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?
Yes, foreign-owned companies can apply for the General Equipment Registration in Singapore, provided they meet the necessary requirements and comply with IMDA regulations for the specific equipment being registered.
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Other IMDA licences
Aircraft Station Licence
The Aircraft Station Licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for the installation and operation of radio communication equipment on board Singapore registered aircraft. The licence is valid for 5 years, with processing typically completed immediately upon payment.
Arts Entertainment Licence
The Arts Entertainment Licence is issued by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for conducting various forms of arts entertainment in Singapore, including plays, concerts, and exhibitions. The licence is valid for specified dates and processing typically takes 20 working days from receipt of complete information.
Computer Online Service Licence
The Computer Online Service Licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for online news websites in Singapore that report on local news and current affairs and meet specific traffic criteria. Validity is agency-confirmed, with processing times available on the agency's website.
Enhanced Simplified Equipment Registration (ESER)
The Enhanced Simplified Equipment Registration (ESER) is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for specific short range and low power devices in Singapore, including wireless microphones and telecommand systems. The licence is valid for 5 years, with processing typically completed immediately.
Exhibition of Telecommunication Equipment (with Frequency)
The Exhibition of Telecommunication Equipment (with Frequency) licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for temporary exhibitions of telecommunication equipment using radio frequency in Singapore. The licence is valid for a maximum of 90 days, with processing typically completed within 10 working days upon submission of all required information.
Exhibition of Telecommunication Equipment (without Frequency)
The Exhibition of Telecommunication Equipment (without Frequency) licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for temporary exhibitions of telecommunication equipment in Singapore. The licence is valid for a maximum of 6 months, with processing typically completed within 10 working days upon complete submission of all required information.