On November 18, 2025, Nicaragua’s telecommunications regulator, TELCOR, issued Administrative Agreement No. 004-2025, revising the procedures for importing and certifying telecommunications equipment. The regulation introduces a more restrictive compliance structure, centered on mandatory approvals and clearer equipment classifications. These updates are part of TELCOR’s broader effort to align its national framework with evolving enforcement priorities and traceability standards.
No Objection Certificate Now Required
A major change introduced by the regulation is the mandatory use of a “Constancia de No Objeción” (No Objection Certificate or NOC) for any telecommunications device classified as restricted. This certificate must be obtained before customs clearance and is only granted if the product has already received homologation (type approval) from TELCOR. While this requirement is primarily intended to reinforce oversight of controlled equipment, it also serves to link import eligibility directly to certification status.
Introduction of Restricted and Prohibited Equipment Lists
TELCOR will now maintain and publish two official lists: one for restricted equipment and another for devices that are prohibited entirely from importation. These lists aim to clarify which technologies require additional regulatory scrutiny and which are outright banned from entering the market. Equipment not included on either list may be exempt from full type approval, but still must receive an NOC to be imported legally.
Revised Physical Labeling Obligations
The regulation imposes strict new labeling requirements on all equipment approved under the homologation framework. Labels must be affixed directly to the product, printed in black, and include the unique homologation certificate number. TELCOR has explicitly excluded digital alternatives such as QR codes or E-labels from acceptance, citing the need for visible and permanent identifiers. Industry stakeholders are awaiting additional guidance on how to apply labels to devices with size or design constraints, including whether placement inside user manuals will be permitted.
Ban on Voluntary Approvals
All equipment must now fall under a mandatory homologation category to be eligible for approval. TELCOR will no longer issue type approval certificates for devices that are not explicitly subject to regulation. This policy effectively eliminates voluntary approvals and narrows the approval scope to technologies deemed essential for oversight.
National Certification Oversight
Certification documentation used to support homologation applications must come from bodies accredited by Nicaragua’s designated national authority. TELCOR also reserves the right to sign Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) with other countries, enabling acceptance of foreign certificates in certain circumstances. However, until such MRAs are in place, all equipment must meet TELCOR’s domestic accreditation standards.
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
Nicaragua
Certification Body:Instituto Nicaragüense de Telecomunicaciones y Correos (TELCOR)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: Indefinite
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Manufacturer
In-Country Testing Requirement: Testing Not Required
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