The Regulatory Authority of Bermuda (RA) has issued an exemption from type approval requirements for certain wireless devices, marking a notable update to the island’s telecommunications regulatory framework. Effective February 14, 2025, radio apparatus operating solely on Bluetooth or Wi-Fi frequencies no longer require individual type approval certificates, provided they meet established international compliance standards.
Overview of Type Approval in Bermuda
Under Bermuda’s Telecommunications Act 1986, any telecommunications apparatus intended to transmit radio signals requires type approval before it can be imported or operated locally. These devices must meet the standards recognized by at least one of the following international bodies:
- The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
- Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)
- The International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
Applicants are required to submit documentation that verifies compliance with the above standards. However, Bermuda does not conduct its own testing; instead, it accepts recognized certifications issued by approved international administrations.
Details of the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Exemption
As of the effective date, the RA has officially pre-approved Bluetooth- and Wi-Fi–only devices that operate within specific frequency bands and output power levels. These devices are now exempt from Bermuda’s formal type approval process.
Importantly, this exemption applies only to devices that use Bluetooth and/or Wi-Fi radio frequencies—and only within the defined technical parameters. Devices that operate on other wireless technologies, or use Bluetooth/Wi-Fi in combination with other radios, still require formal approval.
Manufacturers and importers must ensure that all exempted devices:
- Conform to the technical requirements and safety limits specified by the FCC, ISED, or ETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute).
- Include appropriate compliance markings or labels for lawful use within Bermuda.
The table below lists the frequency ranges, maximum output power, and the IEEE Standards:
Ongoing Compliance Obligations
While type approval is no longer required for these specific device types, responsibility for compliance remains with manufacturers and distributors. Devices must not exceed the permitted frequency ranges or power limits, and all labeling requirements remain in force.
The RA’s update reflects an effort to harmonize with international best practices and reduce regulatory friction for low-risk consumer devices, without compromising on safety, interference protection, or market oversight.
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
Bermuda
Certification Body: Regulatory Authority of Bermuda (RAB)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: Indefinite
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Manufacturer
In-Country Testing Requirement: Testing Not Required
Access in-depth regulatory knowledge on over 200 countries and territories with Global Validity’s free proprietary product certification management software, Access Manager. Learn more about the platform here or fill our quick contact form!
Global Validity is your partner for global certification success
Want to learn more about regulatory compliance and how we can help? Simply fill out the form below and we’ll be in touch!