Navigating IoT Device Certification in Brazil: ANATEL Regulations and Cybersecurity Compliance

Cityscape of Rio de Janeiro with Christ the Redeemer statue and IoT icons, symbolizing the integration of IoT technology and compliance with ANATEL certification and cybersecurity regulations in Brazil.

As one of the leading emerging markets for IoT technology, Brazil offers tremendous opportunities for manufacturers across industries like agriculture, healthcare, smart cities, and telecommunications. However, successfully entering the Brazilian market requires compliance with ANATEL (Agência Nacional de Telecomunicações) regulations. ANATEL governs the certification process for all telecommunications products, including IoT devices, ensuring they meet technical and cybersecurity standards. This guide outlines the certification process, documentation requirements, and evolving cybersecurity regulations in Brazil.


ANATEL Certification for IoT Devices

1. Certification and Homologation

Before any IoT device can be sold or distributed in Brazil, it must go through a two-step process: certification and homologation. Certification must be obtained through an Organismo de Certificação Designado (OCD), a recognized body approved by ANATEL. The OCD evaluates the device based on technical and safety standards. Once the certification is granted, the product must be homologated by ANATEL, giving it the legal status to be marketed in Brazil.

  • Product Categories:
    ANATEL divides devices into various categories:
    • Category I: Includes consumer products such as smartphones and tablets, which require annual testing.
    • Category II: RF products such as radios and routers, requiring biannual testing.
    • Category III: Simpler devices like fiber optic cables, with no mandatory retesting.

2. Testing in Accredited Labs

IoT devices must undergo testing in ANATEL-accredited laboratories located in Brazil. This testing ensures that devices meet local RF emissions, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and safety standards. The OCD guides the manufacturer through the required tests and documentation submission.

3. Documentation Submission in Portuguese

All documentation submitted for ANATEL certification, including test reports, technical manuals, and labeling information, must be provided in Portuguese. The product must also include ANATEL’s approval marking along with a QR code that links to the device’s registration details on ANATEL’s platform.

Cybersecurity Requirements in Brazil

Brazil has recently ramped up its focus on cybersecurity for telecommunications and IoT devices. With the introduction of Ato nº 2436/2023, ANATEL now requires IoT devices to comply with baseline cybersecurity standards. These measures align with the Lei Geral de Proteção de Dados (LGPD), Brazil’s data protection law, which focuses on safeguarding personal data and preventing cyber threats.

  • Compliance with Ato nº 2436/2023:
    Under this regulation, IoT devices with internet connectivity must adhere to cybersecurity standards designed to protect users and infrastructure. Manufacturers must submit a cybersecurity compliance declaration confirming their devices meet ANATEL’s guidelines. This declaration ensures that devices are equipped with secure authentication protocols, encryption, and other cybersecurity features.

Manufacturers should prepare to integrate security-by-design principles and perform regular updates to ensure device security remains robust. While the exact cybersecurity requirements may evolve, ANATEL’s guidelines reflect the growing importance of secure IoT networks in Brazil.


Local Representation Requirement

Foreign manufacturers seeking ANATEL certification must appoint a local representative in Brazil. This representative is responsible for managing the certification process, providing after-sale services such as product warranty, and ensuring the product’s compliance with ANATEL’s technical and cybersecurity requirements throughout its lifecycle.


How IoT Consulting Partners Can Assist

Navigating the ANATEL certification process can be complex, especially with the addition of new cybersecurity regulations like Ato nº 2436/2023. IoT Consulting Partners offers comprehensive services to guide manufacturers through certification and compliance:

  • Local Representation: We work with trusted partners in Brazil to handle certification and compliance on your behalf, ensuring all documents are properly submitted in Portuguese.
  • Testing Coordination: We coordinate with ANATEL-accredited laboratories to manage the testing process, ensuring that your IoT devices meet local standards.
  • Cybersecurity Guidance: We provide expert support in aligning your IoT devices with Brazil’s evolving cybersecurity regulations, including compliance with Ato nº 2436/2023 and the LGPD.

Q&A Section

Q: Are IoT devices required to undergo local testing for ANATEL certification?
A: Yes, all IoT devices must undergo testing in ANATEL-accredited laboratories in Brazil. Test results from foreign laboratories are not accepted.

Q: What documents need to be submitted for ANATEL certification, and in what language?
A: All documents, including test reports, manuals, and labeling information, must be submitted in Portuguese. The product must also include ANATEL’s certification marking and a QR code linking to its registration details.

Q: What cybersecurity regulations apply to IoT devices in Brazil?
A: IoT devices must comply with cybersecurity standards outlined in Ato nº 2436/2023. These regulations ensure secure data transmission and protection against cyber threats, aligning with Brazil’s LGPD.

Q: How long does the ANATEL certification process take?
A: The certification process typically takes 6-8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the product and the completeness of the documentation.


Final Thoughts on Entering the Brazilian IoT Market

Successfully launching IoT devices in Brazil requires thorough adherence to ANATEL’s certification standards and evolving cybersecurity requirements under Ato nº 2436/2023. By ensuring compliance and appointing a local representative, manufacturers can access one of the fastest-growing IoT markets in the world. IoT Consulting Partners can assist you through each step of the process, ensuring smooth market entry and compliance with Brazil’s regulatory landscape.

Contact us today, schedule directly a meeting to learn how we can help you with your IoT certification needs in Brazil and beyond.

Michael Wouters Do You Have Questions?
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John Roording

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