A Complete Guide to BIS ISI, CRS, and FMCS Certifications in India

 

For business firms looking to manufacture, import, or export products in India, it is crucial to comply with the relevant laws. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Certification is arguably one of the most important certifications. Whether you are handling electrical appliances, electronic goods, or industrial equipment, BIS certification guarantees that the products are safe, of good quality, and marketable.

In this in-depth guide by Diligence Certification, we discuss the three main types of BIS certifications—BIS ISI Certification, BIS CRS Certification, and BIS FMCS Certification—and how they work across various product categories. We will take you through the procedures, requirements, advantages, and why engaging professional services can be a game-changer.

What is BIS Certification?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is India's national standards authority, which establishes and maintains standards for products and systems. Certification by BIS is a stamp of safety, quality, and conformity that informs consumers a product is compliant with Indian Standards (IS).

• The BIS runs several schemes of certification, the most important of these are:

• ISI Certification Scheme (Indian Standards Institute)

• CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme)

• FMCS (Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme)

These programs are aimed at different product categories and applicants based on whether the product is domestically manufactured or imported.

1. BIS ISI Certification – Product Quality & Safety Assurance

BIS ISI Certification is required on BIS-listed products for safety and performance. These generally include important products like cement, steel, electrical products, and household items, where compliance with regulations affects safety and public health.

✅ Products Needing ISI Mark

Some key product categories are:

• Electric appliances (such as electric irons, immersion heaters)

• Building materials (like cement and steel bars)

• Automobile accessories

• Kitchen appliances

More than 380 products are now included in the mandatory ISI mark list.

BIS ISI Certification Procedure

The certification process of the ISI mark includes:

1. Application Submission

Fill Form V with the necessary documents and charges.

2. Factory Inspection

A BIS officer goes to the manufacturing plant to evaluate the production capability, testing facility, and quality control.

3. Test Samples

Product samples are taken for autonomous testing in BIS-approved laboratories.

4. Grant of Licence

On fulfillment of inspection and test requirements as per Indian Standards, an The ISI license is issued.

 Key Requirements

• The production unit should be in India.

• In-house or access lab for product testing.

• According to the applicable Indian Standard Code.

• Advantages of BIS ISI Certification

• Required for selling certain products in India.

• Enhances product credibility and trust with customers.

• Avoids legal penalties and administrative delays.

Utilized as a benchmark for government tenders and contracts.

Diligence Certification: How It Assists

Diligence Certification offers full assistance in obtaining ISI Certification. This ranges from document and sample preparation to coordinating factory visits as well as follow-up with BIS.

2. BIS CRS Certification – Mandatory Rule for Electronics & IT Products

The Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) was introduced in 2012 by BIS under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to regulate electronics and IT products. Unlike the ISI scheme that entails factory checks, CRS is founded on self-declaration following testing by independent testing labs.

✅ Under CRS Products

There are currently 76 product categories listed under BIS CRS, such as:

LED illumination

• Mobile phones and accessories

• Power sockets

• Laptops, desktops, and monitors

• TV sets

• Microwave ovens

BIS CRS Certification Process

Online Application Submission

Submit your application on the BIS website along with documents and the cost.

Testing Products

Test the product in a laboratory approved by BIS in accordance with relevant Indian Standards.

Test Report Upload

Upload the lab report and supporting information in the BIS portal.

Registration Grant

On verification, BIS assigns a registration number and permits the use of the Standard Mark with R-number.

Major Requirements

• The applicant should be the manufacturer, not the brand owner or importer.

• Testing has to be conducted in India in BIS-approved testing laboratories.

• Individual registration for each product model and each place of manufacture.

Advantages of BIS CRS Certification

• Legal compliance for electronics import/sale in India.

• No need for on-site factory inspection—faster and less expensive.

• Improves product reputation and market access.

• Decreases the chances of customs rejecting or seizing goods.

Diligence Certification's Role

Diligence Certification streamlines the CRS registration procedure by partnering with BIS-approved labs, verifying documentation accuracy, and obtaining approvals promptly.

3. BIS FMCS Certification – For Foreign Manufacturers

The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) is a special scheme by which foreign manufacturers obtain BIS ISI Certification to export their products to India. It is mandatory for foreign-made products that fall under obligatory BIS conformity, including cement, valves, and pressure cookers.

Unlike CRS, FMCS requires physical plant inspections and close monitoring of manufacturing processes and quality systems.

✅ Products Under FMCS

Any such product that requires ISI certification and is made outside India also requires FMCS certification.

Examples include:

• Steel products

• Electric cables

• Pressure Cookers

• Concrete

BIS FMCS Certification Procedure

1. Pre-Application Planning

Speak with an Indian representative (Authorized Indian Representative – AIR).

2. Sending Documents

File Form VI and supporting documents (product specifications, factory layout, quality plan).

3. Test Samples

Product samples are tested in BIS-approved testing centers.

4. Factory Inspection

The foreign plant is inspected thoroughly by a BIS inspector.

5. Grant of Licence

          If all conditions meet BIS standards, the ISI license is given under FMCS.

6. Surveillance and Renewal

    Ongoing testing and inspection guarantee ongoing compliance.

Fundamental Needs

• A foreign manufacturer has to select an AIR in India.

• Full collaboration in factory inspection by BIS officials.

• It must comply with the relevant Indian Standard.

Advantages of BIS FMCS Certification

• Helps foreign manufacturers enter the market easily.

• Wins the confidence of Indian consumers and regulators.

• Prevents import delays and customs complications.

• Facilitates long-term brand development in India.

Diligence Certification Support

It is difficult to apply BIS FMCS with overseas shipping, language, and various regulations. Diligence Certification offers expert services to process all aspects of the FMCS application such as:

• Document organization

• Factory audit preparation

• AIR representation

• Testing coordination and liaison with BIS

Why choose Diligence Certification?

We at Diligence Certification are professionals in assisting manufacturers in India and around the world in meeting standards. We know the BIS regulation and thus provide personalized assistance for:

• BIS ISI Certification

• BIS CRS Certificate

• BIS FMCS Certification

We have an illustrious history of success, transparent pricing, and a dedicated team of BIS professionals. 

We simplify your certification process, make it accurate and hassle-free. 

Services We Offer 

• Pre-screening and eligibility testing 

• Application and document preparation 

• Lab work and sample testing 

• Factory audit assistance 

• Post-certification compliance 

Final Thoughts

If you are either a foreign company or an Indian local producer, you must obtain BIS Certification to sell legally, gain confidence, and comply with Indian laws. Based on the type of product you own and your country of origin, you will be asked to obtain BIS ISI Certification, BIS CRS Certification, or BIS FMCS Certification. We at Diligence Certification assist you through the BIS process from initial stages to completion. We assist you with all the technical, procedural, and regulatory requirements for your product to flourish in India.