India’s fast-growing market demands products that meet strict quality and safety standards. To ensure this, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) issues a BIS Certificate, commonly known as the BIS Certification or BIS License.
For importers and foreign manufacturers, obtaining a BIS Import Certificate or BIS Import License is mandatory before selling goods in India. Let’s explore what it means and how to get it.
1. What Exactly Is BIS Certification?
The BIS Certification is an official approval that your product complies with the Indian Standard (IS) set by BIS. It assures that your goods are safe, reliable, and of high quality.
Products with a BIS mark—also known as the ISI Mark—show that they’ve been tested and approved by a BIS-recognized laboratory. This helps build trust with Indian customers and ensures compliance with Indian laws.
2. BIS Certificate vs BIS License: The Difference
These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings:
The BIS Certificate is the proof that your product conforms to the Indian Standard.
The BIS License is the permission granted by BIS to use the Standard Mark (ISI Mark) on your products.
In short, the certificate verifies compliance, while the license gives you the right to sell under the BIS Mark.
3. Why Importers Need BIS Certification
If you’re an importer or foreign manufacturer, BIS approval is essential for doing business in India. Many regulated products—like electronics, steel, cement, and household appliances—cannot be imported without a BIS Import License.
This ensures imported goods meet the same safety and quality benchmarks as locally made products. Without it, shipments can be delayed, rejected at customs, or banned entirely.
A valid BIS Import Certificate guarantees smooth customs clearance and consumer confidence.
4. Who Must Apply for a BIS Import License
The BIS Import License applies to:
Indian importers bringing regulated goods into India
Foreign manufacturers exporting to India under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)
The list of mandatory products includes electrical and electronic items, chemicals, steel, and building materials. Always confirm whether your product requires certification before shipment.
5. Step-by-Step Process to Get BIS Certification for Imports
Getting a BIS Certificate might seem complex, but it’s straightforward if you follow the proper steps:
Step 1 – Identify the Standard:
Find the Indian Standard (IS) number relevant to your product.
Step 2 – Submit Application:
Complete the BIS application form with all product details and supporting documents.
Step 3 – Product Testing:
Send product samples to a BIS-approved laboratory for testing.
Step 4 – Factory/Source Inspection (if applicable):
For foreign manufacturers, BIS may inspect the factory to verify production and testing quality.
Step 5 – Grant of License:
After successful testing and evaluation, BIS issues the BIS License and Certificate, allowing you to use the ISI Mark on your products.
6. Key Documents Required
To apply for a BIS Certificate or BIS Import License, prepare these essential documents:
Company registration certificate
Factory or source details
Product test reports
Manufacturing process or import flow chart
List of testing equipment
Trademark registration (if applicable)
Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) details for foreign applicants
Make sure all documents are clear and accurate to avoid delays or rejection.
7. Cost, Validity, and Renewal
The BIS Certification cost varies by product type and includes:
Application and inspection fees
Testing charges
Annual marking fees
On average, the cost may range between USD 4,000–8,000 for foreign manufacturers.
A BIS License remains valid for 1–2 years and can be renewed by submitting updated documents and paying renewal fees.
8. Benefits of BIS Certification
Obtaining a BIS Certificate brings major advantages:
Legal permission to import or sell in India
Better consumer confidence and market reputation
Easier customs clearance
Compliance with Indian regulations
Increased sales and brand credibility
9. Final Thoughts
Getting a BIS Certification or BIS Import License isn’t just a legal formality—it’s a mark of trust, safety, and quality. Whether you’re a domestic manufacturer or a global exporter, BIS approval ensures your products meet Indian standards and win customer confidence.
With proper preparation—or help from a professional BIS consultant—you can complete the certification smoothly and expand into one of the world’s largest markets.
? Learn more: https://bis-certifications.com/what-is-bis-certificate-indian-bis
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