The importing communities often confuse the terms Import Permit (IMP), Product Certificate (PC) and SONCAP Certificates (SC). These certificates are distinct and serve different purposes in the Standard Organization of Nigeria SONCAP certification program.
Below is a clarification between each certificate type, where and when they are applied.
IMPORT PERMIT:
The import permit (IMP) is issued exclusively by the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON). It has been created to help manufacturers and enable them to import their machines and raw materials without any delay or hinderance to their production process.
The Import Permit has a numbering pattern for ease of recognition.
- IMP ..……….P – is used to open the Form M by the importer
- This IMP is usually issued either for Single shipment, 3 months or 1year.
- IMP ………...S – issued after the Form M has been opened, is used to process PAAR for clearance of the goods from the port.
- This is issued per shipment.
PRODUCT CERTIFICATE:
The product certificate (PC) is the first certificate issued during the certification process. This certificate is issued by the IAFs with the authorization from the SON. It is used in the opening of the Form M and issued to the exporter, as only his details are stated on the certificate. There are three types of PCs;
- Product Certificate - Unregistered (PCU): valid for 6 months.
- Product Certificate – Registered (PCR): valid for a period of 1 year
- Product Certificate – Licensed (PCL): validity of 1 year
SONCAP CERTIFICATE:
The SONCAP (SC) is the last of the certificates and it is issued to the importer by the IAF. Once the e-Form M is approved, the SONCAP Certification process commences with the exporter sending a copy of the e-Form M (indicating the BA number, Registered TIN number, RC number) the Bill of Lading, Final Invoice and Packing List to the IAF requesting a SONCAP Certificate.
This certificate is used for processing PAAR and subsequently clearance.
For more information regarding these certificates, don’t hesitate to contact us