On 30 July 2026, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) published RSS-Gen Issue 6 and RSS-310 Issue 6, introducing significant updates to the Canadian regulatory framework for radio equipment.

RSS-Gen Issue 6 modernizes compliance requirements by clarifying when hardware, firmware, antenna, or power supply modifications may require reassessment of equipment certification. The standard also simplifies labeling requirements by permitting the use of QR codes, electronic labeling (e-labeling), and, in certain cases, regulatory information on product packaging or in user documentation.

In addition, receive-only devices and passive RFID tags have been removed from the scope of RSS-Gen and are now covered under RSS-310 Issue 6. The updated standards adopt revised test site validation requirements based on internationally recognized standards, update calibration provisions, and extend radiated emission measurement requirements up to 750 GHz. RSS-310 Issue 6 streamlines labeling and documentation requirements, expands its scope to include receive-only devices and passive RFID tags, and revises exemption provisions for low-power and low-frequency devices.

The new issues became effective upon publication on 30 July 2026, with a one-year transition period ending on 30 July 2027, during which compliance with either the previous or the new edition is accepted. These updates are intended to modernize Canada's radio equipment compliance framework, increase regulatory flexibility through digital labeling, and further align Canadian requirements with internationally recognized testing practices.

This regulatory update is assessed as Medium Impact. The changes are currently at the public consultation stage and are not yet mandatory, but they propose important modifications to compliance, labeling, and testing requirements for a broad range of radio apparatus.

Key reasons for Medium Impact:

• The changes are not yet in force but are expected to affect compliance processes for many stakeholders.
• Significant updates to labeling, scope, and testing requirements.
• Removal and addition of device categories under different standards.
• Stakeholders must review and potentially adapt to new requirements if adopted.

Who is affected?

Manufacturers, importers, testing laboratories, and suppliers of radio apparatus, including license-exempt devices, passive RFID tags, and receiving-only devices.

Conclusion:

While the changes are not yet final, their scope and the breadth of affected devices mean that stakeholders should closely monitor the consultation and prepare for possible compliance adjustments.