Introduction
India is one of the fastest-growing consumer markets in the world, and many foreign manufacturers want to sell their products here. However, to enter the Indian market legally, it is mandatory for certain products to obtain a BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer or a BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer. These certifications ensure that imported products meet Indian quality and safety standards.
In this blog, we will explain everything about the BIS license and BIS certificate for foreign manufacturers, including the process, documentation, benefits, and common challenges.
What is a BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer?
The BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer is issued under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) by the Bureau of Indian Standards. This license allows foreign manufacturers to use the ISI Mark on their products and legally sell them in the Indian market.
This scheme is designed specifically for manufacturers who operate outside India but want to export their products into India.
Products requiring BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer include:
Electrical appliances
Industrial equipment
Construction materials
Automotive components
Safety products
Household items
Without this license, customs authorities can stop or reject your goods at Indian ports.
What is BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer?
The BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer is issued to foreign manufacturers whose products fall under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). This mainly applies to electronic and IT products.
Examples include:
Mobile phones
Laptops and tablets
Power banks
LED lights
Smart TVs
Wireless devices
Power adapters
Under this scheme, foreign manufacturers must get their products tested in BIS-recognized laboratories and register them with BIS before selling in India.
Why is This Certification Important for Foreign Manufacturers?
Getting a BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer or BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer offers several important benefits:
Legal Market Entry
It allows your products to be legally imported and sold in India without customs objections.Indian Consumer Trust
BIS certification builds confidence among Indian consumers as it assures safety and quality.Business Expansion
You can expand your brand presence in one of the world’s largest markets.Avoid Penalties and Seizures
Without BIS approval, your goods may be seized, banned, or fined by Indian authorities.
Difference Between BIS License and BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer
Feature | BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer | BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer |
Scheme | FMCS (ISI Mark Scheme) | CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme) |
Applicable Products | ISI-mark mandatory products | Electronics and IT products |
Factory Inspection | Yes | No physical inspection (usually) |
Testing | In BIS-recognized lab | In BIS-recognized lab |
Marking | ISI Mark | CRS Mark |
Both processes serve different purposes but are equally important for compliance.
Process for BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer
The process includes several detailed steps:
Application Submission
The foreign manufacturer applies to BIS through the FMCS portal with company, product, and factory details.Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative who will act as a legal liaison with BIS.Product Testing in Recognized Labs
Product samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories as per the relevant Indian Standard.Factory Audit by BIS Officials
BIS officials visit the foreign manufacturing facility to assess quality control, production, and testing infrastructure.Grant of BIS License
If compliance is met, BIS grants the license allowing the use of ISI mark on products.
Process for BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer
The process under the CRS scheme includes:
Product Testing
Samples are tested in BIS-recognized labs.Online Registration Application
The manufacturer submits the test report and company details on the BIS CRS portal.Document Verification
BIS verifies documents and test results.Grant of Certification
Once approved, a BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer is issued with a unique registration number.
Documents Required
For obtaining a BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer or BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer, the required documents include:
Business registration certificate
Factory address proof
Manufacturing process flow chart
List of manufacturing and testing equipment
Quality control test reports
Product technical specifications
Appointment letter of Authorized Indian Representative
Test report from BIS-approved laboratory
Having accurate documentation helps speed up approval.
Common Challenges Faced by Foreign Manufacturers
Many foreign manufacturers face difficulties such as:
Understanding Indian standard requirements
Finding approved testing laboratories
Coordinating with BIS officials for inspections
Managing documentation and language barriers
Delays due to incomplete or incorrect applications
Professional consultation can reduce these challenges and make the process smooth.
Validity and Renewal
The BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer is usually valid for 1–2 years and must be renewed before expiry.
The BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer is generally valid for 2 years.
Renewal requires updated test reports and ongoing compliance with Indian standards.
Tips for Smooth Certification
Select the correct Indian Standard for your product
Appoint an experienced Authorized Indian Representative
Prepare your factory for inspection well in advance
Ensure quality control systems are properly implemented
Work with experienced BIS consultants
These steps can help avoid unnecessary delays and rejections.
Conclusion
For any international brand or overseas manufacturer, entering the Indian market without proper BIS approval is not possible for regulated products. Having a BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer or asunconsultants.co.in ensures your products comply with Indian laws, meet quality standards, and build trust among customers.
