Overview

Amazon requires sellers to obtain approval before listing products in certain restricted categories. This gating process helps maintain marketplace quality and ensures sellers meet specific standards before offering products in sensitive or high-demand categories. Understanding how the approval process works is essential for any seller looking to expand their product catalog on Amazon.

Key Points / What Sellers Need to Know

• Category approval is mandatory — Sellers must receive explicit approval from Amazon before listing products in restricted categories. Listing without approval will result in errors or suppressed listings.
• Products must be listed in the correct category — Even with approval, items must be placed in the appropriate product category. Miscategorizing products to avoid restrictions can lead to listing removal or account penalties.
• The "Everything Else" category has limits — While this catch-all category is available to all sellers for items like collectibles and stamps, it should not be used to circumvent category restrictions or to list products that belong in gated categories.
• Some products are fully prohibited — Certain items cannot be sold on Amazon at all, regardless of category approval. Sellers must review Amazon's restricted and prohibited products policies before sourcing inventory.
• Approval requirements vary by category — Some categories require documentation such as invoices from authorized distributors, letters of authorization from brand owners, or product safety certifications.

How the Approval Process Works

To request approval for a restricted category, sellers should navigate to the "Add a Product" section within Seller Central and search for the product they wish to list. If the category requires approval, Amazon will display an "Apply to Sell" or "Request Approval" button. Clicking this initiates the application process, which may involve submitting documentation such as wholesale invoices, product images, or compliance certificates. Amazon typically reviews applications within a few business days, though some categories may take longer. Sellers may also find category-specific approval requirements listed on the product detail page or in the Category Listings Report.