Introduction

In India, product quality and safety are taken very seriously. To ensure that products meet Indian safety standards, the government has made BIS Certification mandatory for many goods. Whether you are a domestic manufacturer or an importer, understanding the BIS Import License and the cost of BIS certification is extremely important before entering the Indian market.

This blog explains everything in simple language – what BIS certification is, why it is needed, how importers can apply, what the cost involves, and how the overall process works.

What is BIS Certification?

BIS Certification is a conformity assessment scheme issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It ensures that products sold in India comply with Indian Standards (IS) related to quality, safety, and performance.

Products like electronics, electrical appliances, steel items, cement, toys, chemicals, and many more require mandatory BIS certification. Without this approval, selling or importing such products in India is illegal.

What is a BIS Import License?

A BIS Import License is required when products are manufactured outside India and imported for sale in the Indian market. In this case, BIS certification is issued under specific schemes applicable to foreign manufacturers.

The importer acts as an authorized Indian representative, but the license is always issued in the name of the manufacturer. This license confirms that the foreign-made product meets Indian quality standards.

Who Needs BIS Certification in India?

You need BIS certification if:

• You manufacture products notified under mandatory BIS schemes
  
  
• You import regulated products into India
  
  
• You sell branded or private-label goods requiring compliance
  
  
• You want to expand business credibility and trust
  
  

Both Indian manufacturers and foreign manufacturers need BIS approval before commercial sale.

Types of BIS Certification Schemes

Depending on the product and origin, BIS certification is granted under different schemes:

1. ISI Mark Scheme – For Indian manufacturers
   
   
2. Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) – For overseas manufacturers
   
   
3. Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) – Mainly for electronics and IT products
   
   

For imports, the BIS Import License generally falls under FMCS or CRS.

Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process

The BIS certification process involves the following steps:

Step 1: Identify Applicable Standard

Each product falls under a specific Indian Standard (IS). Selecting the correct standard is the first step.

Step 2: Documentation Preparation

Documents like company details, factory layout, manufacturing process, quality control details, and test reports are required.

Step 3: Product Testing

Samples are tested in BIS-recognized laboratories in India. Only passing products move forward.

Step 4: Application Submission

The BIS application is submitted online along with fees and test reports.

Step 5: Factory Inspection

For certain schemes, BIS officials inspect the manufacturing facility to verify compliance.

Step 6: Grant of License

After successful verification, BIS issues the certification or import license.

Cost of BIS Certification

The cost of BIS certification depends on multiple factors, such as:

• Product category
  
  
• Applicable Indian Standard
  
  
• Testing fees
  
  
• Government application charges
  
  
• Factory inspection cost
  
  
• Professional consultancy fees
  
  

On average, the cost can range from ₹50,000 to ₹3,00,000 or more, depending on product complexity and certification scheme.

For foreign manufacturers, the cost may be slightly higher due to inspection, overseas coordination, and multiple product models.

Timeline for BIS Certification

The standard timeline for BIS certification is:

• CRS Scheme: 4–6 weeks
  
  
• ISI / FMCS Scheme: 3–6 months
  
  

Timelines can vary based on documentation accuracy, product testing results, and inspection schedules.

Why is BIS Certification Important?

BIS certification provides several benefits:

• Legal approval to sell products in India
  
  
• Increased consumer trust and brand value
  
  
• Reduced risk of penalties and product seizure
  
  
• Better market acceptance
  
  
• Compliance with Indian government regulations
  
  

Without BIS certification, imported goods can be rejected at customs or banned from sale.

Common Challenges in BIS Certification

Many businesses face issues such as:

• Incorrect product standard selection
  
  
• Failed lab testing
  
  
• Incomplete documentation
  
  
• Delays in inspections
  
  
• Misunderstanding BIS import rules
  
  

Professional guidance helps avoid these mistakes and speeds up approval.

Conclusion

Getting BIS Certification, obtaining a BIS Import License, and understanding the cost of BIS certification are crucial for any business planning to sell regulated products in India. While the process may seem complex, proper planning, correct documentation, and expert support can make it smooth and hassle-free sunconsultants.co.in. 

To ensure compliance and faster approval, many manufacturers and importers choose professional assistance for BIS certification services.