BIS CERTIFICATION FOR IMPORTERS

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India, responsible for developing, maintaining, and regulating product quality and safety standards under the BIS Act, 2016. BIS certification ensures that products manufactured in India or imported from abroad meet the required quality, safety, and performance benchmarks, protecting both consumers and businesses.

BIS certification is an official mark of quality, reliability, and compliance. Products that fall under the mandatory certification list must carry the ISI mark (for Indian manufacturers) or BIS registration (for foreign manufacturers and importers). This certification is granted only after rigorous testing, factory inspections, and verification of conformity to the relevant Indian Standards (IS codes).

Importance of a BIS certificate for Import of goods

For importers, BIS certification is not just a compliance requirement but also a gateway to the Indian market. Here’s how it benefits them:

• Legal Market Entry – Products on the mandatory list cannot be sold in India without BIS approval, making certification essential for importers.

• Consumer Trust & Brand Reputation– BIS-certified imported products are viewed as safe and reliable, helping build brand credibility.ly exempt from FMCS certification, as they are required to obtain only BIS CRS registration.

• Competitive Advantage – Importers with BIS-certified products gain an edge over uncertified competitors in the Indian market.

• Prevents Customs Delays – BIS certification ensures smooth clearance at ports, reducing the risk of shipment holds or penalties.

• Supports Business Growth – With BIS approval, importers can expand their reach across retail, wholesale, and e-commerce platforms in India.

• Global Recognition – BIS certification is internationally recognized, adding value for importers targeting not only India but also other markets requiring strict quality standards.

Three major BIS certification schemes for importers

BIS issues two main types of certification for importers under its scheme

• CRS Registration: The Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), applies mainly to Electronics and IT products, including mobile phones, LED lights, laptops, power banks, and other electronic devices. Under this scheme, both Indian manufacturers and importers of electronics must obtain BIS registration before selling their products in the Indian market.

• FMCS Certification: The Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS) is designed for overseas manufacturers who wish to export and sell their products in India. Through FMCS, foreign companies can use the ISI mark on their products after complying with BIS testing, audits, and factory inspections, thereby ensuring smooth market entry into India.

• ISI Mark Certification: This certification is mandatory for a wide range of products manufactured in India such as cement, steel, household appliances, and building materials. Products with the ISI mark assure consumers of quality, safety, and reliability as per the relevant Indian Standards (IS codes).

Documents Required for BIS Registration for Importers

To obtain BIS registration for imports, you need to provide the following documents, along with general documents. The specific BIS registration documents for imports may vary depending on the type of BIS registration the importer is applying for:

• Documents for CRS scheme

• Documents for FMCS scheme

• Nomination Letter of AIR

• Test Report for the product

• Undertaking regarding the product

• ISO Certificate of the manufacturer

• Product manual of the applied devices

• Trademark Certificate if available or required

• Testing documents, including the completed CCL (Conformity Certification Label) and CDF (Conformity Declaration Form)

• Authorized Indian Representative and Affidavit: Required for foreign manufacturers to designate a local representative.

• Trademark Authorization Letter: Needed if the brand is not owned by the manufacturer.

• Authorization Letter: Must be submitted if the signatory is not the head of the manufacturing facility.

• List of Manufacturing equipments

• List of Machinery used in the plant

• Layout plan of the manufacturing plant

• Brand document such as trademark (if applicable)

• Business license/ equivalent to incorporation certificate

BIS Certification Process for Import 

The BIS certification process for import involves several key steps:

1. Application Submission: The first step in the BIS certification process is to submit a completed application to the BIS licensing authority. Applicants must provide all required, duly signed documents to the Bureau of Indian Standards.

2. Document Inspection: Once the application and documents are submitted, BIS authorities will conduct a thorough inspection and verification of the documents as part of the registration process.

3. Product Testing: Following document verification, the imported product will undergo testing at BIS-approved laboratories. The testing report will be generated and submitted to BIS for further review.

4. BIS Certificate Issuance: Upon successful completion of the product testing and document inspection, BIS will issue the BIS registration certificate. The entire BIS certification process typically takes between 20 to 30 working days.

Understanding and following these steps is essential for a smooth BIS certification process for imports.

Challenges Importers Face Without BIS Certification

Importing products into India without BIS certification can lead to serious challenges that affect both business operations and brand reputation. Some of the key problems without BIS certification include:

1. Customs Clearance Delays – Products that are not BIS-certified often get stuck at Indian ports, causing delays in shipment clearance and additional storage costs for importers.

2. Penalties and Rejection of Shipments – Non-compliance with BIS regulations can result in heavy penalties, fines, or even outright rejection of shipments, leading to financial losses.

3. Market Restrictions and Product Recalls – Imported goods without BIS approval cannot legally be sold in India. In cases where uncertified products reach the market, they risk mandatory recalls and legal action.

4. Loss of Consumer Trust – Today’s buyers are highly conscious of quality and safety standards. Selling products without BIS certification damages brand credibility and makes it harder for importers to gain consumer trust in a competitive market.

Conclusion

BIS certification for importers is not only a critical legal requirement but also essential for compliance with regulations for products like toys, electronic items, helmets, and more. Holding a BIS certificate is more than a legal obligation; it helps brands establish trust with consumers and expand their business. Additionally, obtaining a BIS certificate for shipping ensures that imported products meet required quality standards, further enhancing brand credibility and market presence.