Contact Application Kernel approval is granted to the contact kernel loaded in an acceptance device. The Contact Application Kernel approval process attests the compliance of the kernel to the EMV Specification.
Search Approved Contact Application Kernels
This summary describes the standard process for the approval of a new contact application kernel product. Specific processes, described in the administrative process, may apply for a subsequent configuration submission or a product renewal.
Obtain the detailed contact application kernel administrative process
Obtain the terminal type approval update bulletins
Obtain the contact application kernel reference specifications: EMV Book 1
Obtain the contact application kernel reference specifications: EMV Book 2
Obtain the contact application kernel reference specifications: EMV Book 3
Obtain the contact application kernel reference specifications: EMV Book 4
Obtain the specification bulletins
The Product Provider shall fill out the Registration form. Once EMVCo reviews and accepts the form, the Product Provider will receive a contract. Once the contract is signed, EMVCo will assign a product provider registration number. Registration is a one-time process.
The Product Provider shall select a Laboratory and execute bilateral, required agreements and contracts. The Product Provider shall complete an Implementation Conformance Statement (ICS) document in which it provides detailed information about the Product and supported features. The Laboratory will validate and submit the ICS to EMVCo for verification.
Obtain the Contact Application Kernel ICS Form
Obtain the list of EMV accredited laboratories for Contact Application Kernel testing
Once EMVCo has accepted the ICS, the laboratory performs product testing. The test results are documented in test reports that the laboratory submits to the Product Provider.
Obtain the Terminal Level 2 Test Cases
Upon receipt of the test reports from the Laboratory, the Product Provider decides if it will submit the product to EMVCo for approval. The product provider shall complete a Request for Approval form and ask the laboratory to send the test reports to EMVCo. EMVCo will grant a Letter of Approval (LOA) when a test report demonstrates sufficient product conformance. Applicable fees must be paid before the LOA is granted.
There are currently no prerequisites to completing the Contact Application Kernel approval process.
For each submission of a Kernel product for approval (either for a new product, a renewal or update), specific fees shall be paid to EMVCo, as detailed in TTA Bulletin 185. Additional information on fees may be found in the Kernel Administrative Process.
Note: EMVCo Accredited Laboratories will have a fee structure for laboratory testing services. EMVCo is not responsible for laboratory testing fees.
