BIS Certification: Requirements, Process, Cost & Benefits in India

A BIS Certificate confirms that a product complies with the applicable Indian Standards issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
Many products require a BIS Certificate before they can be legally manufactured, imported, distributed, or sold in India.
Understanding the correct certification scheme, documentation, and approval process helps businesses avoid penalties, customs delays, and compliance issues.

Introduction

A leading consumer electronics importer contacted Diligence Certifications last year after one of its consignments was detained at the Indian customs. The goods in question had passed through a series of international quality tests and were already being sold successfully in several countries. However, Indian customs authorities rejected the delivery due to the total absence of a BIS Certificate. Consequently, the company had to pay additional costs to store the shipment in the port. Moreover, the importer had to respond to numerous complaints from its distributors about the delayed delivery.

Various similar incidents occur on a global scale, as India continues to expand the list of products subject to compulsory certification. In other words, a BIS Certificate is now a mandatory requirement for all foreign trade companies that want to sell, distribute, or import goods in the country. This procedure is essential for Indian manufacturers as well as foreign exporters who want to avoid severe penalties, inspections, and disruptions in their business.

A BIS conformity assessment is an integral part of the quality assurance system in India and is critical in gaining the trust of customers and partners, as well as establishing long-term, profitable relationships. For instance, the absence of proper documentation may prevent a product from being placed on the Indian government’s tender list.

What is a BIS Certificate?

A BIS Certificate is a certificate of approval issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), India’s national standards body. The BIS was established by the BIS Act, 2016 and is responsible for issuing certificates that attest that a product, service, or manufacturing process meets India’s quality control standards. For many product categories, the certificate is mandatory. A BIS Certificate needs to be produced for all goods controlled by Quality Control Orders (QCOs) and must be presented to customs for imports to India.

The certificate also needs to be provided when selling goods in India. The main objective of the BIS conformity assessment is to ensure standardization, safety, and quality of goods and protect Indian consumers. In addition, the BIS Certificate facilitates trade, both domestic and international.

Key Objectives

A BIS Certificate guarantees that a product or service is safe.
Helps to maintain a high level of quality.
Protects the interests of both producers and consumers.
Ensures product standardization.
Prevents the import or sale of substandard or harmful products.

Why is a BIS Certificate Important?

Many companies focus only on the quality of their products and neglect other important factors, such as regulatory compliance. Even the best products on the market can incur legal and customs issues if a BIS Certificate is not present.

Two manufacturers have developed the same electrical appliance. The product is high-quality, but only one company has a BIS Certificate. As a result, the certified product has a bigger chance of being selected by retailers and institutional buyers.

The BIS Certificate is important for the following reasons:

• Ensuring regulatory compliance

• Building customer confidence

• Facilitating sales

• Enhancing brand image

• Minimizing risks

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has the authority to issue mandatory approvals to products under the Quality Control Order. Products that fall under the Quality Control Order cannot be legally manufactured or sold without the mandatory BIS approval.

A BIS Certificate builds customer confidence
A BIS Certificate facilitates sales
A BIS Certificate enhances brand image
A BIS Certificate minimizes risks
A valid BIS Certificate can help organizations avoid the following:

Customs delays
Product recalls
Regulatory penalties
Legal issues
Supply chain disruptions

Types of BIS Certifications

One of the common misconceptions about BIS certification is that all products are certified under the same scheme. In reality, the Bureau of Indian Standards utilizes different certification schemes for different products and manufacturers.

The most important consideration when applying for a BIS Certificate is selecting the appropriate certification scheme.

ISI Mark Scheme

ISI Mark Scheme is mainly applicable to Indian manufacturers. It is one of the oldest product certification schemes managed by BIS. According to the ISI Mark Scheme, products must undergo testing in an authorized laboratory and a factory inspection before receiving certification.

The products covered under ISI Mark Scheme include cement, steel products, pressure cookers, LPG cylinders, electrical appliances, and packaged drinking water.

Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)

The Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) covers a wide range of electronic and IT products notified by the government. In order to obtain a CRS certificate, manufacturers must apply for product testing in BIS-authorized laboratories.

The products covered under the CRS include LED lights, mobile phones, laptops, power banks, and smart watches.

Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)

The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) enables foreign manufacturers to obtain a BIS Certificate for products regulated under the Quality Control Order. In order to obtain FMCS certification, foreign manufacturers must apply for product testing, factory inspection, and technical documentation review.

Hallmarking Scheme

The hallmarking scheme is applicable to gold and silver jewelry. It ensures that jewelry products are made of precious metals and meet the minimum fineness standards.

The main BIS certification schemes are the ISI Mark Scheme, Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), and Hallmarking Scheme. Each certification scheme is applicable to different types of products. The choice of a certification scheme also depends on the manufacturer’s location.

Products that Require a BIS Certificate

The Indian government regularly updates the list of products that require a BIS Certificate. In general, the list covers a wide range of electrical, electronic, construction, and industrial products, as well as household appliances and automotive equipment. Below are some of the most common categories of products that require BIS certification.

Electrical Products
Electric irons
Switches
Electric cables
Ceiling fans
Water heaters
Circuit breakers
Electronics
LED television
Mobile phones
Power adapters
Laptops
Smart watches
Power banks
Construction Products
Cement
Steel bars
Structural steel
Plywood
Safety glass
Industrial Products
Industrial valves
Chemicals
Cylinders
Pipes
Machinery parts
Household Products
Pressure cookers
Gas stoves
Kitchen appliances
Domestic electrical equipment
Automotive Products
Tyres
Automotive lighting
Safety equipment
Selected components

Eligibility for a BIS Certificate

A company that wishes to obtain a BIS Certificate must first assess its eligibility according to the requirements of the Bureau of Indian Standards. In general, the eligibility criteria are different for different certification schemes. However, in most cases, the applicant must be the manufacturer of the product. In addition, the factory where the product is manufactured must be able to consistently meet the requirements of the applicable Indian Standard (IS). In some cases, BIS can also evaluate whether the manufacturing process is suitable for producing products that meet the relevant Indian Standard.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

Legally established manufacturing unit
Product covered under the applicable Indian Standard
Quality control system within the factory
Testing facility or access to BIS-recognised laboratories
Compliance with applicable Quality Control Orders (QCOs)
Technical documentation supporting product conformity

Documents Required for a BIS Certificate

Preparing accurate documents is often the most crucial step in the certification process. Even a minor inconsistency between the submitted application and supporting documents can prolong the approval process.

The document requirements may vary for different certification schemes. However, manufacturers usually need to prepare the following:

Company Documents

Certificate of Incorporation
GST Registration Certificate
PAN Card
Factory Licence
MSME Registration (if applicable)
Import Export Code (for import-related applications)
Manufacturing Documents
Factory layout plan
Manufacturing process flow chart
List of production machinery
List of quality control machines
Calibration certificates for testing equipment
Product Documents
Product specifications
Technical drawings
Bill of Materials (if applicable)
Product catalogue
Product labels
User manual
Testing Documents
Product test reports
Internal quality records
Lab reports from BIS recognised laboratories
Additional Supporting Documents
Authorisation letter
Brand authorisation (if applicable)
Trademark documents
Foreign manufacturer authorisation (under FMCS)

Keeping the documents updated prior to submitting the application can help avoid clarification requests from BIS.

Step-by-Step BIS Certificate Process

Most businesses overlook the fact that getting a BIS Certificate entails multiple technical and regulatory steps. This voluntary conformity assessment procedure ensures that products and manufacturing units meet the relevant Indian Standards.

Understanding the step-by-step procedure helps businesses estimate the time needed to obtain the certificate and avoid unnecessary delays.

Step 1: Identify the Applicable Standard

The first step is to understand if a product requires mandatory certification and which Indian Standard applies to it. The applicable BIS certification scheme also needs to be determined.Applying under the wrong scheme is one of the most common reasons for BIS certificate rejections.

Step 2: Product Testing

The product is subjected to various tests at an authorised laboratory under the relevant IS code. The laboratory evaluates the conformity of goods with Indian Standards and issues a test report.

In some cases, products fail to meet the specified requirements. As a result, modifications are made to the product before the re-submission.

Step 3: Online Application Submission

The manufacturer needs to fill out the BIS application form and submit the following:

Technical documents,
product specifications,
factory information,
test reports,
and other applicable declarations.

It is essential to provide accurate information to avoid clarification requests.

Step 4: Factory Inspection

For some certification schemes, the BIS officials conduct an inspection at the manufacturing facility. It helps BIS assess the production capacity and processes used by the manufacturer.

During the inspection, the certifying officer usually examines:

the manufacturing process,
quality control measures,
production records,
and traceability of raw materials and finished goods.
A thorough inspection can expedite the certification process.

Step 5: Technical Review by BIS

The certification body evaluates the submitted application, test reports, factory inspection reports, and technical documents. BIS also reviews the manufacturing capabilities and conformity of the product with Indian Standards.

If additional information is required, the certification body will share clarification requests.

Step 6: Grant of BIS Certificate

Once BIS approves the application, the manufacturer receives the licence/registration. It allows the applicant to:

manufacture notified products,
import certified goods,
use the relevant BIS mark,
and sell the products in India.

BIS Certificate Cost

One of the most common queries among manufacturers pertains to the cost of a BIS Certificate. There is no standard pricing since the expenses vary depending on the product category, applicable schemes, and laboratory testing fees.

Some of the significant expenditure heads include:

Government application fee,
testing charges,
factory inspection costs,
annual licence fee,
consultancy charges,
sample transportation charges,
surveillance charges,
and overseas inspection charges (in case of foreign manufacturers)

Instead of focusing on the initial costs, businesses should consider the long-term benefits of a BIS Certificate. For example, the certificate prevents shipment rejections, penalties, and other financial losses.

BIS Certificate Timeline

The timeline for obtaining a BIS Certificate depends on multiple factors, including product category, certification scheme, laboratory testing time, and the accuracy of the submitted documents.

In general, applications with complete information and first-time test approvals are processed faster than those requiring additional clarifications or re-testing.

Businesses looking to apply for a BIS Certificate should consider the timelines before launching their products. It will help manufacturers and importers avoid unnecessary delays in the supply chain.

Validity and Renewal of a BIS Certificate

A BIS Certificate is not a one-time requirement. On the contrary, manufacturers must renew the certificate before its expiry. Businesses should apply for renewal at least six months before the expiry date.

The following steps help maintain the certificate’s validity:

Continuing to manufacture products that conform to the applicable Indian Standard,
Undertaking surveillance activities,
Updating BIS about any changes in the manufacturing process/product,
submitting the renewal application before expiry.
Periodic internal compliance audits help businesses stay on top of the renewal process.

Benefits of a BIS Certificate

A BIS Certificate is mandatory for many products, which is why most businesses apply for it. However, the advantages of a BIS Certificate go beyond statutory compliance.

Legal Market Access

The certificate allows businesses to legally manufacture, import, and sell notified products in India. For instance, products under Quality Control Orders can only be imported or produced with a BIS Certificate.

Consumer Trust

The BIS hallmark ensures that a product is fit for use and complies with the applicable standards. In other words, it helps build consumer confidence in the brand.

Distributor Confidence

Traders and distributors prefer to deal in products that have BIS Certification because of reduced regulatory risks. It makes product distribution easier while minimising the chances of a customs inspection.

Government Tenders

Many government agencies only procure BIS-certified goods. In addition, several government tenders mention the requirement for BIS Certificate during the tender invitation process.

Brand Image

A BIS Certificate shows that a manufacturer has taken all the efforts to ensure product conformity. It reflects positively on the brand’s image and reputation.

Reduced Business Risks

The certificate eliminates various risks, including customs inspection, product recall, penalties, legal disputes, and market withdrawal of products.

Competitive Edge

Products with a BIS Certificate hold an advantage over their uncertified counterparts, particularly in a competitive market.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the BIS Certificate Process

Many businesses make costly mistakes when applying for a BIS Certificate. However, a few simple errors can prolong the certification process and delay the product launch.

The following are some of the common mistakes manufacturers make:

Applying Under the Wrong Certification Scheme

Selecting the wrong BIS certification scheme is the primary reason why some applications get rejected. It is essential to understand the requirements of each certification scheme before applying.

Inadequate Documentation

Incomplete documents or incorrect technical information can lead to extensive clarifications and additional costs. Some businesses also fail to update documents as per the latest regulations.

Lack of Updates on Indian Standards

Sometimes companies apply for a certificate under an outdated Indian Standard since they are not aware of the updates. In such cases, the certificate gets rejected, requiring re-application.

Late Testing of Products

Many manufacturers wait to finish the production process before testing the products. Such a strategy can delay the launch of goods, particularly if the initial test results are not satisfactory.

Poor Factory Quality Control Processes

In some cases, businesses fail to implement adequate quality control measures at the factory despite the test results being fine. Consequently, additional inspections are conducted during the factory audit.

Assuming Other Certifications are Equivalent to BIS Certification

Various international certifications, including CE, UL, and ISO, are often considered substitutes for BIS Certification. However, it is a common misconception since BIS Certificate is mandatory for most products in India.

Why Choose Diligence Certifications for Your BIS Certificate?

Applying for a BIS Certificate is not as simple as ticking a box since each category of goods has different requirements, testing procedures, and standards. Even a minor error in choosing the relevant Indian Standard or preparing the documents can result in additional costs and delays in the application process.

Diligence Certifications offers BIS consultancy services to assist manufacturers, importers, start-ups, and multinational corporations in obtaining the certificate. We provide complete end-to-end support, including identifying the applicable Indian Standards, selecting the best certification scheme, preparing documents, coordinating laboratory testing, applying for the certificate, factory inspection, objection handling, and licence renewal.

Our BIS consultancy experts understand the challenges that manufacturers and importers face, including product launch delays, customs clearance issues, and changes in Quality Control Orders. They can help businesses navigate the application process and select the most appropriate certification strategy.

Our BIS Consultancy Services Include
Product eligibility assessment,
Indian Standard identification,
BIS certification scheme,
document preparation,
lab testing coordination,
online application,
factory inspection,
objection handling,
licence renewal,
and post-certification compliance support.

Our experts work closely with clients to ensure smooth certification without any avoidable delays.

Conclusion

A BIS Certificate plays a significant role in ensuring the conformity of products with India’s quality and safety standards. Whether a manufacturer is based in India or overseas, the certificate helps facilitate smoother sales. A product can only enter the Indian market with a BIS Certificate. Likewise, a company must possess the certificate to design and manufacture goods in India.

With the Government of India continuously introducing new Quality Control Orders, businesses need to consider BIS compliance as an integral part of their business strategy. For instance, companies can utilize the time saved during the application process to prepare for a customs inspection. Alternatively, businesses can reduce the risk of penalties or shipment delays by ensuring complete documentation.

The right consultancy partner can help manufacturers and importers tackle the complexities of the BIS certificate application process. From estimating the application timelines to identifying the applicable Indian Standards, experts can offer practical guidance on every step of the application process.