Public Mobile Network Licence
The Public Mobile Network Licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for businesses intending to set up a public mobile network and provide telecommunication services to the public in Singapore. The licence is valid for 1 year, with processing typically completed within 10 working days upon complete submission of all information.
- Validity
- 1 year
- Processing time
- Within 10 working days upon complete submission of all information
- Issuing authority
- INFOCOMM MEDIA DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (IMDA)
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Who needs the Public Mobile Network Licence
This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:
What's involved in getting the Public Mobile Network Licence
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 Public Mobile Network Licence enables a business to establish and operate a public mobile network in Singapore, facilitating the provision of telecommunication services to the general public. This is essential for any entity looking to offer mobile connectivity and related services.
What must be in place before the licence can be granted
Before the licence can be granted, the business must have a comprehensive plan for the mobile network, including technical specifications and infrastructure details. Additionally, the business must demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements set by the IMDA, which may include having the necessary equipment and technology in place to support the network's operation.
How the agency reviews and decides
The IMDA conducts a thorough review of the application, assessing the proposed network's technical feasibility and compliance with local regulations. This may involve consultations with other government agencies to ensure that the network aligns with national policies and standards. The agency may also require a demonstration of the network's capabilities before granting the licence.
Common reasons applications stall
Applications for the Public Mobile Network Licence can stall for various reasons. Common issues include incomplete documentation, lack of clarity in the proposed network's technical specifications, and failure to meet regulatory compliance standards. Additionally, if the proposed network does not align with existing telecommunications policies or infrastructure, this can lead to delays or rejections. Engaging with experts familiar with the regulatory landscape can help mitigate these risks.
Public Mobile Network Licence FAQ
Do I need this licence to start operating?
Yes, the Public Mobile Network Licence is essential for any business intending to establish a public mobile network in Singapore. Without this licence, a business cannot legally provide telecommunication services to the public.
What can my business do once licensed?
Once licensed, your business can operate a public mobile network, offering telecommunication services such as voice calls, messaging, and data services to the public. This opens up opportunities for revenue generation and market expansion.
What happens if I operate without it?
Operating without the Public Mobile Network Licence can lead to significant legal repercussions, including fines and the potential shutdown of operations. It is crucial to obtain the necessary licence to avoid these risks.
How does this fit relative to incorporating my company?
Obtaining the Public Mobile Network Licence is a separate process from incorporating your company. It is advisable to have your business structure in place before applying for the licence, as the agency may require details about the business entity during the application process.
What's the most common reason applications get rejected?
The most common reason for rejection is the failure to meet regulatory compliance standards. This can include inadequate technical specifications or insufficient documentation demonstrating the network's feasibility and alignment with national policies.
Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?
Yes, foreign-owned companies can apply for the Public Mobile Network Licence in Singapore, provided they meet the necessary regulatory requirements and demonstrate the capability to operate a public mobile network.
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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.