What is the process for Class D medical device MDACS registration in Hong Kong? What are the steps?
Release time:2025-07-08 15:40:15 The author: source:
The Class D medical device registration process under the Medical Device Administrative Control System (MDACS) in Hong Kong is a structured and voluntary system administered by the Medical Device Division (MDD) of the Department of Health (DoH). Class D represents the highest-risk category of medical devices (e.g., implantables, life-support equipment, high-risk IVDs), and the application requires a robust technical file, compliance with essential principles, and overseas regulatory approval.

The Class D medical device registration process under the Medical Device Administrative Control System (MDACS) in Hong Kong is a structured and voluntary system administered by the Medical Device Division (MDD) of the Department of Health (DoH). Class D represents the highest-risk category of medical devices (e.g., implantables, life-support equipment, high-risk IVDs), and the application requires a robust technical file, compliance with essential principles, and overseas regulatory approval.

Below is a step-by-step guide to the registration process for Class D medical devices under MDACS:


✅ Overview of the Registration Process

StageDescription
Step 1Classify your device and confirm eligibility
Step 2Appoint a Local Responsible Person (LRP) in Hong Kong
Step 3Prepare documentation and technical dossier
Step 4Submit the application via MDIS portal
Step 5MDD review and clarification process
Step 6Approval and listing of the device
Step 7Post-market compliance and periodic updates

🔷 Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Classify the Device

  • Use GN-01 (for general MDs) or GN-02 (for IVDs) to determine the classification.

  • Class D includes:

    • Devices that support or sustain life

    • Devices implanted into the human body

    • IVDs for detecting serious infectious diseases (e.g., HIV, HBV, blood grouping)

Action: Document your classification rationale for submission.


Step 2: Appoint a Local Responsible Person (LRP)

  • Only a Hong Kong-registered entity can act as the LRP.

  • The LRP is responsible for:

    • Submitting the application

    • Communicating with MDD

    • Handling post-market obligations

Action: Formalize a contract between the manufacturer and LRP. Register the LRP under the MDACS framework (LRP application).


Step 3: Prepare Technical Documentation

Prepare a full technical file covering all applicable standards and requirements.

Key Documents Include:

CategoryRequired Items
Manufacturer credentialsISO 13485 certificate, company profile
Regulatory approvalCE certificate (MDR), FDA 510(k)/PMA, TGA, etc.
Device descriptionProduct overview, photos, model list
Essential Principles checklistBased on GN-01/GN-02
Risk management fileISO 14971-based
Clinical evaluation report (CER)If required for Class D
Safety and performance testingBiocompatibility, electrical, EMC, etc.
Labeling and IFUIn English and/or Traditional Chinese
Declaration of ConformitySigned by manufacturer
Post-market planPMS, vigilance SOPs, AE report templates

Tip: Follow IMDRF/GHTF documentation structure for Class D.


Step 4: Submit Application via MDIS Portal

  • The MDIS (Medical Device Information System) is the online submission platform.

  • The LRP must log in and:

    • Fill out the device registration form

    • Upload required documents (PDF format)

    • Pay any applicable administrative fees (note: MDACS is voluntary and currently free in most cases)

Action: Keep digital copies organized and ensure each document is clearly labeled (e.g., “ISO13485_certificate.pdf”).


Step 5: Application Review by MDD

  • MDD will conduct:

    • Administrative screening (completeness of submission)

    • Technical review (compliance with essential principles)

  • MDD may request:

    • Additional data or clarifications

    • Updated documents (if expired or unclear)

Typical Review Timeline:

  • 3 to 6 months for Class D devices

  • Longer if the product is novel, or technical files are incomplete


Step 6: Device Listing and Certificate

If approved:

  • The device is listed on the MDACS website

  • A Listing Number is issued (e.g., MDXXXXX)

  • A Letter of Acceptance is sent to the LRP

Note: This is not a marketing authorization under law but serves as recognition of compliance and facilitates hospital tenders and private procurement.


Step 7: Post-Market Obligations

Once the device is listed, you must:

ObligationDescription
Adverse Event ReportingSubmit AE reports via MDIS (per GN-10)
Field Safety ActionsNotify MDD for recalls or FSCA (per GN-11)
Periodic UpdatesSubmit renewals every 5 years
Change NotificationReport any changes to device, labeling, manufacturing
Maintain QMSKeep ISO 13485 and foreign approvals valid
Label ComplianceMaintain compliant packaging and IFU (GN-07)

📌 Summary Flowchart of the MDACS Class D Registration Process

text复制编辑[1] Device Classification → [2] Appoint LRP → [3] Prepare Dossier → [4] Submit via MDIS →
[5] MDD Review & Clarification → [6] Approval & Listing → [7] Post-Market Compliance

✅ Optional (but Recommended) Preparations

ItemPurpose
Pre-submission checklistEnsure complete document set
SOPs for PMS and AERequired for Class D
Device master file (DMF)Internal reference for audits
Translation into Traditional ChineseFor labeling, IFU, AE reports
Regulatory timeline trackerMonitor renewal and expiry dates

Would you like a downloadable Class D MDACS registration checklist, editable document templates, or a sample MDIS submission package structure? I can generate them based on your specific device type (general or IVD).

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