BIS Certification for imported goods is a mandatory compliance requirement for foreign-manufactured products that fall under India’s notified quality standards. The certification is issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to ensure that imported products meet Indian safety, quality, and performance standards before entering the Indian market.
For imported goods, BIS certification is generally obtained under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) or the BIS CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme), depending on the product category. Without BIS certification, imported goods may face customs rejection, seizure, penalties, or sales bans.
1. Identify Whether BIS Certification Is Mandatory for the Product
The first step is to confirm whether the imported product falls under mandatory BIS certification.
The Indian government issues Quality Control Orders (QCOs) for various products such as electronics, electrical appliances, steel products, cement, toys, chemicals, and more.
Importers must verify:
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Applicable Indian Standard (IS)
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Relevant BIS scheme (FMCS or CRS)
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Product category and scope
This step is crucial to avoid importing non-compliant goods.
2. Appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) who acts as the official liaison between BIS and the foreign manufacturer.
The AIR is responsible for:
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Communication with BIS
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Compliance coordination
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Handling inspections and surveillance
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Responding to non-conformities
Without a valid AIR, BIS will not process the application.
3. Prepare Technical Documents and Factory Information
BIS requires detailed technical and manufacturing information to assess product compliance.
Documents typically include:
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Product technical specifications
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Manufacturing process flow
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Quality control and testing procedures
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List of machinery and testing equipment
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Factory layout and address proof
These documents help BIS evaluate production consistency and quality systems.
4. Product Testing in BIS-Recognized Laboratory
The imported product must be tested according to the applicable Indian Standard (IS).
Key points:
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Testing must be done in a BIS-recognized laboratory
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Test samples must match actual production models
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Test reports must meet BIS format and parameters
Successful testing is mandatory before proceeding to certification.
5. Submit BIS Application Under the Relevant Scheme
After successful testing, the application is submitted through the BIS portal under:
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FMCS (for products requiring factory inspection), or
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CRS (for electronics and IT products)
The application includes test reports, technical documents, factory details, and prescribed government fees.
6. BIS Factory Inspection (For FMCS Products)
For FMCS certification, BIS conducts an on-site factory inspection at the foreign manufacturing unit.
Inspectors verify:
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Manufacturing processes
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Quality control systems
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In-house testing facilities
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Product marking and traceability
A successful inspection is critical for approval.
7. Grant of BIS License or Registration
Once BIS is satisfied with testing, documentation, and inspection, it grants:
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BIS License with ISI Mark (FMCS), or
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BIS Registration Number (R-number) (CRS)
This approval allows legal import and sale of the product in India.
8. Marking, Surveillance, and Ongoing Compliance
Certified imported goods must carry:
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ISI Mark or CRS marking
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License or registration number
BIS conducts surveillance audits and market sampling to ensure continued compliance. Any deviation can lead to suspension or cancellation.
Conclusion
The BIS certification process for imported goods ensures that foreign products meet Indian safety and quality standards. By following proper procedures, appointing an AIR, completing testing, and maintaining compliance, importers can ensure smooth customs clearance and long-term market access in India.