The FSS Notification (Encryption approval)

All products that are capable of encryption need to be approved in the Federal Security Service (FSS or sometimes called FSB) in order to be successfully imported to the Customs union. A special document that confirms the product which transfers data through crypto algorithms can be imported is called FSS Notification (or FSB Notification).

PRODUCTS WHICH REQUIRE THE FSS NOTIFICATION:

All products that must be approved through FSS are mentioned in the List of encryption means (article 2.19 of the «Non-tariff regulated product list»).

This List includes the following product groups:

• Pocket machines for recording, playback and visualization of data with computing features;
• Printers, copy machines, facsimile (fax) machines and their electronic modules;
• Pocket computers;
• Computing machines (including personal computers (PC) and industrial ones) and their parts;
• Pocket PC electronic modules;
• Subscriber communication devices;
• Base stations (docking stations);
• Telecommunication equipment and its parts;
• Hardware for broadcasting and television;
• Radio navigation receivers, remote control hardware;
• Equipment that provides access to information and communications network “Internet” and television receivers with communication function, their parts;
• Integrated electronic circuit chips, storage devices etc.

So, any modern telecommunication device such as mobile phone, laptop, tablet and others that use wireless data transfer technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GSM, GPRS, GLONASS, can be classified as one of the mentioned product groups and require the FSS Notification during Customs clearance.

ANY EXCEPTIONS?

Before July 2018 the main defining characteristic that determined whether it was necessary to get FSS approval or not, was the ability of the device to encrypt the data. Now, we should also take into consideration the List of encryption means above. This means that if the product is capable of encryption but cannot be classified as one of the means from the List, the FSS Notification is not required.

Instead, the FSS Exemption letter will be issued that can be used as evidence while importing the goods.

THE PROCESS:

Timing

The process of applying for the FSS notification as well as for the FSS exemption letter takes 10 working days.

Documents required:

The manufacturer should prepare the legalized Power of Attorney for his partner in the Russian Federation – a resident legal entity which can apply to the FSS for the Notification.

Under legalization of power of attorney apostille or the seal of the Russian consul is meant. The power of attorney shall be done by the manufacturer at the local notary office. After this, a notarized power of attorney is transmitted to the Russian consulate (to prove the seal, signature of the notary, who had previously assured the power of attorney) in the country of the manufacturer or, if the country is included in the Hague Convention, for apostille instead of the consulate seal.

In order to successfully obtain a notification of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation, an apostilled power of attorney should meet the following requirements:

The notary public must attest that:

• the signature is authentic and truly belongs to the signatory;
• the company stamp is authentic (if the company has one);
• the signatory is authorized to act on behalf of the company and has the right to sign the POA.

There are also a set of requirements to the form of these documents.

We help to obtain the PoA, preparing the draft, making recommendations and providing the notary translation of the seal/apostille into the Russian language. Ves Testing & Certification can also act as a Local representative and apply to FSS.

We will be pleased to consult you.

JUST INFORM US:

• The type and short technical description of the product you apply with
• The HS code (Customs code)

To receive the final conclusion on the necessity of issuing the FSS Notification.

Looking forward to receiving your inquiries through info@ves-certification.com