How to get BIS certification in India
How to get BIS certification in India
Blog Article
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India, responsible for ensuring the quality, safety, and reliability of products in the Indian market. BIS certification is a mark of trust and compliance with Indian standards, making it essential for manufacturers and businesses. Whether you're a domestic manufacturer or a foreign entity looking to enter the Indian market, obtaining BIS certification is a critical step.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about BIS certification, including the process, requirements, fees, and tips for a smooth application.
1. What is BIS Certification?
BIS certification is a mandatory compliance mark for certain products sold in India. It ensures that the product meets the quality, safety, and performance standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards. The certification is represented by the ISI mark (for Scheme-I) or the CRS mark (for Scheme-II), which are widely recognized by consumers and regulators.
Why is BIS Certification Important?
- Legal Requirement: For certain products, BIS certification is mandatory under Indian laws.
- Consumer Trust: The ISI or CRS mark assures customers of product quality and safety.
- Market Access: Without BIS certification, your product cannot be sold in India.
- Competitive Edge: Certified products are preferred by buyers and government tenders.
2. Types of BIS Certification Schemes
BIS offers different certification schemes depending on the product and the applicant. Here are the main schemes:
Scheme-I: ISI Mark Scheme
- Applies to domestic manufacturers.
- Covers products like cement, electrical appliances, and food products.
- Requires factory inspections and product testing.
Scheme-II: Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)
- Mandatory for electronics and IT products like laptops, mobile phones, and batteries.
- Does not require factory inspections but mandates product testing.
Scheme-III: Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)
- For foreign manufacturers exporting products to India.
- Similar to the ISI Mark Scheme but tailored for overseas applicants.
Scheme-IV: ECO Mark Scheme
- For eco-friendly products that meet environmental standards.
- Voluntary in nature.
3. Eligibility Criteria for BIS Certification
Who Can Apply?
- Domestic manufacturers.
- Foreign manufacturers (under FMCS).
- Traders and importers (in some cases).
Documents Required
- Application form (Form V or VI).
- Business registration proof (GST, MSME, etc.).
- Manufacturing process details.
- Test reports from BIS-recognized labs.
- Factory location and layout details.
4. Step-by-Step Process to Obtain BIS Certification
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the BIS certification process:
How to get BIS certificate in India
Step 1: Identify the Applicable Scheme
Determine which BIS scheme applies to your product. For example, electronics fall under CRS, while steel products fall under the ISI Mark Scheme.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Gather all necessary documents, including test reports, business registration, and manufacturing details.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Apply online through the BIS portal (https://bis.gov.in/) and pay the required fees.
Step 4: Product Testing in BIS-Accredited Labs
Send product samples to a BIS-recognized lab for testing. The lab will verify compliance with Indian standards.
Step 5: Factory Inspection (if applicable)
For ISI Mark and FMCS schemes, BIS officials will inspect your manufacturing facility.
Step 6: Grant of BIS Certification
If your product meets the standards, BIS will issue the certification and allow you to use the ISI or CRS mark.
Step 7: Marking and Labeling of Products
Once certified, you must label your products with the BIS mark and license number.
5. Fees and Charges for BIS Certification
The cost of BIS certification varies depending on the scheme and product category. Here’s a breakdown:
- Application Fees: ₹1,000 to ₹15,000.
- Testing Fees: Varies by product and lab (typically ₹10,000 to ₹1,00,000).
- Annual License Fees: ₹1,000 to ₹5,00,000 (based on turnover).
- Inspection Charges: Additional fees for factory inspections.
6. Timeline for BIS Certification
The average processing time for BIS certification is 4-6 months, depending on factors like:
- Complexity of the product.
- Time taken for testing.
- Availability of BIS officials for inspections.
7. Compliance and Renewal
BIS certification is valid for 1-2 years and must be renewed before expiry. To maintain compliance:
- Ensure consistent product quality.
- Allow periodic inspections by BIS officials.
- Renew the license on time to avoid penalties.
8. Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Delays in Testing: Choose a BIS-recognized lab with a good track record.
- Documentation Errors: Double-check all forms and documents before submission.
- Non-Conformity with Standards: Work closely with testing labs to address any issues.
9. Benefits of BIS Certification
- Market Access: Sell your products legally in India.
- Consumer Trust: Build brand reputation with the ISI or CRS mark.
- Quality Assurance: Improve product quality through compliance with Indian standards.
- Government Tenders: Eligible to participate in government procurement processes.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can foreign manufacturers apply for BIS certification?
Yes, foreign manufacturers can apply under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).
Q2. Is BIS certification mandatory for all products?
No, only products listed under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) or ISI Mark Scheme require mandatory certification.
Q3. How long is the BIS certification valid?
BIS certification is typically valid for 1-2 years and must be renewed thereafter.
Q4. What happens if my product fails the BIS test?
You can reapply after addressing the issues identified during testing.
11. Conclusion
BIS certification is a crucial step for businesses looking to enter or expand in the Indian market. While the process may seem complex, proper planning and adherence to guidelines can make it smooth and hassle-free. By obtaining BIS certification, you not only comply with Indian regulations but also gain a competitive edge in the market.
If you’re ready to start your BIS certification journey, ensure you have all the necessary documents and work with experienced professionals to guide you through the process. Report this page