Introduction
In India, product safety and quality are regulated through mandatory standards set by the government. To ensure that products sold in the market meet these standards, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays a crucial role. Any manufacturer or importer dealing in notified products must obtain BIS Certification before selling or distributing them in India.
Many businesses find the compliance process confusing, especially when it comes to understanding the BIS Application procedure and obtaining a valid BIS Licence. This blog provides a complete and easy-to-understand guide on BIS Certification, the application process, and the importance of holding a BIS Licence in India.
What is BIS Certification?
BIS Certification is an official approval issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards, India’s national standards body functioning under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution.
The certification confirms that a product complies with the relevant Indian Standard (IS) related to safety, quality, and performance. Once certified, manufacturers are allowed to use the BIS Standard Mark, such as the ISI Mark or CRS Mark, depending on the applicable certification scheme.
Why BIS Certification is Mandatory
BIS Certification is mandatory to:
Ensure consumer safety
Maintain consistent product quality
Prevent the sale of substandard goods
Ensure legal manufacturing, import, and sale
Build trust among customers and regulators
Non-compliance with BIS regulations can lead to penalties, seizure of products, or prohibition from sale in India.
Understanding BIS Licence
A BIS Licence is the legal authorization granted by BIS after successful completion of the certification process. It allows manufacturers to produce, import, and sell certified products in India while using the BIS Standard Mark.
Key points about BIS Licence:
It is product-specific
It is factory-specific
It is issued for a limited validity period
Renewal is mandatory to continue compliance
Without a valid BIS Licence, certified products cannot be legally sold in India.
What is a BIS Application?
A BIS Application is the formal request submitted to BIS to obtain BIS Certification and a BIS Licence. Through the application, manufacturers or importers provide product details, testing reports, and supporting documents for evaluation.
The BIS Application can be submitted under different certification schemes, depending on the product category, such as:
ISI Certification Scheme
Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)
Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)
Selecting the correct scheme is essential for approval.
Who Needs BIS Certification and Licence?
BIS Certification and BIS Licence are required for:
Domestic manufacturers of regulated products
Importers of BIS-notified goods
Foreign manufacturers exporting products to India
In most cases, the manufacturer is responsible for certification, while importers must ensure that valid BIS approval exists.
BIS Application Process in India
The BIS Application process generally follows these steps:
Step 1: Identify Applicable Indian Standard
Each product must comply with a specific Indian Standard (IS). Identifying the correct standard is the foundation of the certification process.
Step 2: Product Testing
Product samples are tested in BIS-recognized laboratories to verify compliance with safety and quality requirements.
Step 3: Submission of BIS Application
The BIS Application is submitted along with test reports and required documents to BIS through the prescribed portal or offline process.
Step 4: Factory Inspection
For certain schemes, BIS officials conduct a factory inspection to assess manufacturing capability and quality control systems.
Step 5: Grant of BIS Licence
After successful evaluation, BIS grants the BIS Licence and authorizes the use of the BIS Standard Mark.
Documents Required for BIS Certification
Common documents required during the BIS Application process include:
Business registration certificate
Manufacturing licence or factory registration
Product test reports from BIS-recognized labs
Factory layout and manufacturing process flow
Quality control manual
List of testing equipment
Trademark registration certificate (if applicable)
Accurate documentation helps prevent delays or rejection.
Validity and Renewal of BIS Licence
A BIS Licence is usually valid for one to two years, depending on the certification scheme and product category.
Renewal involves:
Submission of updated documents
Surveillance inspection, if required
Payment of renewal fees
Failure to renew the BIS Licence on time may lead to suspension or cancellation.
Benefits of BIS Certification and Licence
Legal approval to sell products in India
Increased consumer trust and confidence
Improved brand reputation
Smooth customs clearance
Competitive advantage in the market
Long-term regulatory compliance
Common Challenges in BIS Application
Businesses often face challenges such as:
Identifying the correct Indian Standard
Managing product testing timelines
Understanding BIS procedures
Preparing accurate documentation
Professional guidance can help simplify the process and ensure timely approval.
Conclusion
BIS Certification is a vital regulatory requirement for businesses operating in India. A properly submitted BIS Application and a valid BIS Licence ensure that products comply with Indian quality and safety standards. While the certification process may seem complex, systematic planning and expert support can make it smooth and efficient sunconsultants.co.in
For businesses, BIS Certification is not just a legal obligation—it is a mark of quality, reliability, and trust that supports long-term growth in the Indian market.
