BIS Brings AR, VR & MR Devices Under Mandatory CRS Registration

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The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has announced a crucial regulatory update by bringing Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) devices under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). This notification marks an important step toward strengthening product safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance for immersive technology products entering the Indian market. With the rapid expansion of AR/VR applications across sectors such as gaming, education, healthcare, manufacturing, and enterprise solutions, BIS CRS registration for AR, VR, and MR devices has now become mandatory to align these advanced electronic products with internationally recognized safety standards.

As per the notification, manufacture, import, sale, or distribution of AR, VR, and MR devices in India without valid BIS CRS certification will not be permitted from the effective date. This regulation directly impacts domestic and foreign manufacturers, importers, and brand owners, making early compliance essential to avoid import clearance delays, legal penalties, and market access restrictions. Businesses dealing in immersive technologies must proactively initiate BIS CRS compliance for AR/VR/MR devices to ensure uninterrupted operations, seamless product launches, and long-term regulatory conformity in India’s evolving electronics compliance landscape.

What Is the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)?

TheBIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)is a mandatory compliance framework established under the BIS Act, 2016 to regulate the safety and quality of electronic and IT products sold in India. Implemented by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and enforced by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), CRS requires notified products to be tested in BIS-recognized laboratories and registered before manufacture or import.BIS CRS certification is product-based and focuses on conformity to prescribed Indian Standards. Electronics and IT devices fall under CRS due to their mass consumer usage, electrical and EMC safety risks, and the need to regulate fast-evolving technologies—making BIS CRS registration essential for products such as AR, VR, and MR devices entering the Indian market.

BIS Notification for AR, VR & MR Devices Under CRS

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), in coordination with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has officially expanded the scope of the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) to include Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) devices.

The notification clearly specifies the effective implementation date from which compliance becomes compulsory. From this date onward, manufacture, import, sale, or distribution of AR, VR, and MR devices without valid BIS CRS registration is strictly prohibited in India. The regulation applies uniformly to domestic manufacturers, foreign manufacturers, importers, and brand owners, making early initiation of BIS CRS certification for AR, VR & MR devices essential to avoid regulatory disruptions, import clearance delays, and commercial restrictions.

Key Details of BIS CRS Notification for AR, VR & MR Devices

Particulars	Details
Regulatory Authority	Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
Administering Ministry	Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
Product Categories Covered	Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR) & Mixed Reality (MR) Devices
Applicable Indian Standard	IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 – Safety requirements for audio/video, ICT equipment
Compliance Scheme	Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)
Effective Date	05 December 2025
Compliance Requirement	Mandatory BIS CRS registration before manufacture, import, sale, or distribution in India

Understanding AR, VR & MR Devices Covered Under BIS CRS

The BIS notification under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) applies to a wide range of immersive technology devices, including Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) products. Each category differs in functionality, user interaction, and application areas, but all fall under mandatory BIS CRS compliance for electronic and IT equipment due to their electrical, visual, and safety-related components.

Classification of AR, VR & MR Devices Under CRS

Device Category	Definition	CRS Relevance
Augmented Reality (AR) Devices	Devices that overlay digital information, images, or data onto the real-world environment in real time	AR devices are covered under BIS CRS registration due to their electronic circuitry, display systems, and user safety considerations
Virtual Reality (VR) Devices	Devices that create a fully immersive, computer-generated environment, isolating users from the physical world	VR devices under CRS require BIS certification to ensure electrical safety, performance reliability, and compliance with IS standards
Standalone VR Devices	Self-contained VR systems with built-in processors, displays, and batteries	Classified under CRS as independent electronic equipment
Tethered VR Devices	VR devices that require connection to external systems such as PCs or consoles	Covered under CRS due to power and data connectivity risks
Mixed Reality (MR) Devices	Devices that blend real and virtual environments, allowing interaction between physical and digital elements	MR devices fall under BIS CRS compliance owing to complex hardware, sensors, and real-time data processing

Also Read: Guide to BIS CRS Registration for Products in India

Applicable Indian Standards for AR, VR & MR Devices Under BIS CRS

Notified Indian Standard : AR, VR, and MR devices covered under the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) must comply with IS/IEC 62368-1:2023, which defines safety requirements for audio/video and information technology equipment.
Safety & Performance Compliance : The standard addresses key risks such as electrical shock, fire hazards, thermal safety, and mechanical stability, ensuring safe and reliable operation of immersive technology devices.
EMC & Electrical Safety Requirements : Devices must meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and electrical safety criteria to prevent interference, ensure power stability, and protect users from electrical risks.
Mandatory Product Testing : Testing in a BIS-recognized laboratory is essential for obtaining BIS CRS registration for AR, VR & MR devices, enabling lawful manufacture, import, and sale in the Indian market.

Who Must Obtain BIS CRS Registration?

Domestic Manufacturers : Indian manufacturers producing AR, VR, or MR devices for sale in the domestic market are required to obtain BIS CRS registration before commercial production or distribution.
Foreign Manufacturers Exporting to India : Overseas manufacturers supplying AR, VR & MR devices to India must secure BIS CRS certification in their own name and appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to fulfill regulatory obligations.
Importers and Brand Owners : Importers and brand owners placing immersive technology products on the Indian market are responsible for ensuring that all products carry a valid BIS CRS Registration Number (R-number) and comply with applicable Indian Standards.
E-commerce Sellers and Distributors : Online marketplaces, e-commerce sellers, and distributors must verify BIS CRS compliance for AR/VR/MR devices before listing or selling products in India to avoid legal penalties and product delisting.

BIS CRS Compliance Process for AR, VR & MR Devices

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Product Testing : Testing of AR, VR, and MR devices as per IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 in a BIS-recognized laboratory to confirm safety and performance compliance.
Documentation Preparation : Compilation of technical files, test reports, manufacturer and factory details, and compliance declarations required for BIS CRS registration.
Application Submission & Registration : Online submission of the BIS CRS application, followed by evaluation and issuance of the BIS CRS Registration Number (R-number) upon approval.
Marking & Labeling Requirements : Mandatory display of the BIS Standard Mark with the R-number on the product, packaging, and user manuals before manufacture, import, or sale in India.

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Absolute Veritas is a leading global provider of compliance, testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) services, with over 15 years of expertise in ensuring product quality, safety, and regulatory adherence across diverse industries. Headquartered in New Delhi, India, the company offers end-to-end solutions for manufacturers, exporters, and importers, covering a wide range of products including electronics, toys, batteries, medical devices, automobiles, audio-video equipment, lighting, and furniture.

With a strong presence across India and twelve Asian countries, Absolute Veritas specializes in BIS certification, Quality Control, and regulatory compliance audits, providing seamless coordination with laboratories, auditors, and government officials. Our team of industry experts, comprising veterans from both private and public sectors, ensures accurate, on-site inspections and audits, tailored to each client’s requirements.

How To Get BIS CRS Certification in India? | BIS Registration Process | Absolute Veritas

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Why has BIS included AR, VR and MR devices under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has included Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) devices under CRS to address safety, electrical, and performance risks associated with immersive electronic products. As these devices involve displays, batteries, sensors, and wireless connectivity, BIS CRS compliance ensures that products meet prescribed Indian safety standards and protect consumers from potential hazards while aligning India’s regulatory framework with global best practices.

Which standard must AR, VR and MR devices comply with under BIS CRS?

All AR, VR, and MR devices notified under the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme must conform to IS/IEC 62368-1:2023, which specifies safety requirements for audio/video and information technology equipment. This Indian Standard follows a hazard-based safety approach and evaluates electrical, thermal, mechanical, and energy-related risks, making it a critical requirement for obtaining BIS CRS registration for immersive devices.

When does BIS CRS registration become mandatory for AR, VR & MR devices in India?

The mandatory BIS CRS certification for AR, VR, and MR devices comes into effect from 05 December 2025. From this date onward, the manufacture, import, sale, or distribution of immersive technology products without a valid BIS CRS Registration Number (R-number) will be prohibited in the Indian market.

Who is responsible for obtaining BIS CRS registration for AR, VR and MR products?

Responsibility for BIS CRS registration lies with the manufacturer of the product. This includes Indian manufacturers, as well as foreign manufacturers exporting AR, VR or MR devices to India, who must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR). Importers and brand owners must ensure that all products placed on the market are duly registered and compliant with BIS CRS requirements.

Are importers and e-commerce sellers affected by this CRS notification?

Yes, importers, distributors, and e-commerce sellers of AR, VR & MR devices must verify that products carry valid BIS CRS certification before listing or selling them in India. Non-compliant products may face customs clearance delays, marketplace delisting, and regulatory enforcement actions under the BIS Act.

Is product testing mandatory for BIS CRS certification of AR, VR & MR devices?

Product testing is a compulsory step in the BIS CRS compliance process. AR, VR, and MR devices must be tested as per IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 in a BIS-recognized laboratory, and the resulting test reports are submitted as part of the CRS registration application to obtain the BIS R-number.