In this article, we will explore the real certification process and the main pitfalls that foreign manufacturers often face.
Certification Stages
The certification process can be divided into several key steps:- Preparation of documentation - technical specifications, diagrams, manuals, quality certificates from the country of origin.
- Selection of an ISRAC-accredited laboratory - conducting tests to confirm compliance with SII standards and international requirements.
- Conducting tests - verification of safety, quality, electromagnetic compatibility, load resistance, material composition, and other characteristics.
- Submission of results and test protocols to the SII or the relevant ministry for evaluation.
- Obtaining a certificate and, if necessary, labeling that authorizes the sale of the product in Israel.
Main Pitfalls
Foreign companies often face common issues:- Incomplete documentation package - missing manuals in English or Hebrew, technical drawings, or test protocols.
- Choosing a laboratory without ISRAC accreditation - the results may not be accepted by the SII or ministries.
- Non-compliance with national standards - even with an international certificate (CE, ISO, FDA), some Israeli requirements may differ.
- Errors in labeling and packaging - non-compliance with SII or ministry requirements may result in fines or shipment delays.
- Underestimating sector-specific permits - for medical devices, food products, radio equipment, and electronics, registration with the relevant ministries is mandatory.
Awareness of these pitfalls allows companies to prepare in advance and avoid delays.
Practical Recommendations- Work with ISRAC-accredited laboratories - this is a mandatory condition for result recognition.
- Prepare a complete documentation package - technical passports, quality certificates, manuals, and test reports.
- Check ministry requirements - certain product categories require coordination with the relevant authority (Ministry of Health, Ministry of Communications, etc.).
- Follow labeling and packaging standards - this is critical for market entry approval.
- Plan certification timelines in advance - the process can take from several weeks to several months, depending on the product category.
Opportunities for Foreign Companies
Proper organization of the certification process opens the following opportunities:- Fast and legal entry of products into the Israeli market;
- Reduced risk of product rejection or customs delays;
- Recognition of international certificates when SII requirements are met;
- Possibility of re-certification for updated products without full retesting;
- Strengthened trust among partners and consumers in the Israeli market.