The FMCS Certificate (Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme) is issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for foreign manufacturers who want to sell products in India that fall under the mandatory BIS certification list.
Unlike the normal BIS registration process, FMCS involves factory inspection, product testing in India, strict quality control checks, and detailed documentation. It ensures that foreign-made products meet Indian safety and quality standards before entering the Indian market.
If you are a foreign manufacturer, importer, or Indian representative planning to introduce regulated products such as electrical appliances, steel items, cement, or household goods, FMCS certification is mandatory.
Below is a clear, step-by-step explanation of how to apply.
📌 Step-by-Step Process to Apply for FMCS Certificate (2026)
1. Identify Applicable Indian Standards (IS)
First, confirm whether your product falls under the mandatory BIS scheme.
Each product must comply with a specific Indian Standard (IS Code), which defines quality, safety, and performance requirements.
2. Appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
Foreign manufacturers must nominate an AIR in India.
The AIR will:
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Communicate with BIS
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Submit applications
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Receive the certificate
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Handle post-certification responsibilities
3. Submit the FMCS Application to BIS
The application must be submitted online along with:
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Factory details
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Manufacturing process information
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Quality control plan
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Machinery & equipment details
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Product specifications
BIS may also ask for manufacturing layout, calibration reports, and quality manuals.
4. Product Testing in BIS-Recognized Laboratory
Your product must be tested in an Indian BIS-approved laboratory.
The lab issues a detailed test report confirming compliance with the relevant IS standard.
5. Factory Inspection by BIS Officers
This is the most important part of the FMCS process.
A BIS inspection team visits the foreign manufacturing unit to check:
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Production process
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Testing facilities
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Quality control systems
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Raw material quality
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Factory infrastructure
Manufacturers must bear the cost of travel, visa, inspection charges, etc.
6. Grant of FMCS License
Once the factory inspection and test reports meet BIS standards, the FMCS license is granted.
The manufacturer must also pay:
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Annual marking fee
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License fee
The FMCS certificate remains valid as long as the manufacturer follows BIS compliance and renews it on time.