The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) is a certification system operated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It allows foreign manufacturers to legally manufacture, export, and sell regulated products in India that fall under mandatory BIS certification. The FMCS process ensures that imported products meet Indian quality, safety, and performance standards.
Below is a step-by-step explanation of the FMCS certification process.
1. Identify Applicability Under BIS and QCOs
Before applying, the foreign manufacturer must confirm whether the product falls under:
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Mandatory BIS certification
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Applicable Quality Control Orders (QCOs) issued by Indian ministries
Only products notified under QCOs require FMCS certification.
2. Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) who:
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Acts as a legal liaison with BIS
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Handles compliance, inspections, and communication
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Is responsible for post-certification obligations
Without an AIR, FMCS application is not accepted.
3. Application Submission to BIS
The manufacturer submits the FMCS application to BIS along with:
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Product and factory details
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Manufacturing process information
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Quality control system details
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Applicable Indian Standard (IS) reference
The application is filed online and reviewed by BIS officials.
4. Product Testing in BIS-Recognized Laboratories
Samples of the product are tested in:
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BIS-recognized or BIS-approved laboratories
Testing verifies compliance with:
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Indian safety standards
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Performance requirements
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Technical specifications
Test reports are mandatory for proceeding further.
5. Factory Inspection by BIS Officials
BIS conducts a physical inspection of the foreign manufacturing facility.
During inspection, BIS verifies:
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Manufacturing infrastructure
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Quality control systems
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In-house testing facilities
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Raw material handling and traceability
This step ensures that the factory can consistently produce compliant products.
6. Compliance Review and Clarifications
If BIS finds any gaps during:
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Application review
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Testing
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Factory inspection
The manufacturer must submit clarifications or corrective actions. Proper compliance at this stage is crucial to avoid rejection or delays.
7. Grant of FMCS BIS License
Once all requirements are satisfied, BIS issues:
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FMCS BIS License
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Permission to use the Standard Mark (ISI Mark)
This license allows the foreign manufacturer to legally export and sell certified products in India.
8. Marking and Labeling Compliance
After certification, products must:
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Carry the ISI mark
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Display license number
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Follow BIS labeling guidelines
Incorrect marking can lead to suspension or cancellation of the license.
9. Surveillance, Renewal, and Ongoing Compliance
FMCS certification is not permanent. BIS conducts:
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Periodic surveillance audits
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Market sample testing
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Factory reassessments
Manufacturers must:
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Renew the license on time
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Maintain consistent product quality
Conclusion
The FMCS certification process ensures that foreign-manufactured products entering India meet strict Indian quality and safety standards. From application and testing to factory inspection and licensing, each step is designed to protect consumers and maintain fair trade. For foreign manufacturers targeting the Indian market in 2026, FMCS certification is a legal necessity and a mark of product reliability.