Application Guidelines
Complete guidelines for applying zero-rating to your website in accordance with ICASA Notice 2450 of 2024
Overview
The ISPA Zero Rating Portal streamlines the application process for website zero-rating as required by ICASA's spectrum licence obligations. This portal ensures regulatory compliance while providing efficient processing for government and Public Benefit Organisation websites.
Important: All applications must comply with the requirements specified in ICASA Notice 2450 of 2024.
Eligibility Criteria
Government Websites
Official government department and agency websites
Public Benefit Organisations
Registered PBOs providing essential public services
Educational Institutions
Schools, universities, and educational service providers
Healthcare Providers
Public healthcare facilities and health service organisations
Technical Requirements
Website Hosting
- Must be hosted within South Africa
- Cannot use cloud hosting services
- Must have static IP addresses
Network Configuration
- Must respond on port 80 (HTTP) and/or port 443 (HTTPS)
- Provide valid IPv4 and/or IPv6 addresses
- Server Name Indication (SNI) must be configured if using HTTPS
Website Content
- Must be accessible and functional
- Website title should match the page title
- Content must be appropriate for public access
Application Process
Complete Online Application
Fill out the application form with all required technical and organizational information
Automated Validation
The portal will validate your website's technical configuration and provide feedback
ICASA Review
Your application will be reviewed by ICASA for compliance with regulatory requirements
Operator Implementation
Once approved, operators will implement zero-rating for your website
Required Information
Organizational Details
- Organization name
- SARS tax number
- Applicant name and contact details
- Email address
- Contact number (+27 format)
- Organization type
Technical Details
- Website URL
- Website title
- Static IPv4 address
- Static IPv6 address (if applicable)
- Ports (80 and/or 443)
- Server Name Indication (SNI)
- Hosting location confirmation
Automated Validation Features
The portal provides real-time validation to help ensure your application meets technical requirements:
URL Testing
Tests website accessibility on HTTP/HTTPS with and without www
Title Verification
Compares entered title with actual page title
IP Validation
Verifies IP addresses against public DNS records
Hosting Location
Checks if website is hosted locally in South Africa
Post-Approval Process
Implementation Notifications
You'll receive email notifications as each operator implements zero-rating
Technical Updates
Submit technical changes through the portal for ICASA approval
Operator Feedback
View implementation feedback and resolve any technical issues
Need Assistance?
If you have questions about the application process or technical requirements, please refer to our FAQ or contact support.
