If you are planning to sell products in India — whether you make them in India or import them from abroad — you need to understand BIS certification. In India, many products cannot be legally sold or imported unless they meet certain quality and safety standards set by the government. BIS certification is the official approval that proves this compliance.
In this article, we will explain what BIS certification means, why it is important, how the process works, and how it applies when importing goods into India. This guide uses simple, easy-to-understand language so that anyone — even beginners — can follow it.
What Is the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)?
BIS stands for the Bureau of Indian Standards. It is the national standard-setting authority of India. BIS develops quality and safety standards for products and services that are used by consumers, businesses, and industries all across the country.
The main purpose of BIS is to ensure that products meet minimum quality and safety requirements so that people are protected from harmful, unsafe, or substandard goods.
What Is BIS Certification?
BIS certification is an official approval given by the Bureau of Indian Standards. When a product is certified by BIS, it means the product has been tested or checked and found to meet Indian standards. Once certified, manufacturers or importers can use a special quality mark called the Standard Mark or more commonly the ISI mark on their products.
This mark tells buyers, customs officials, retailers, and regulators that the product is safe, reliable, and meets the legal requirements for sale in India.
Why BIS Certification Matters
1. Legal Requirement
For many products, BIS certification is required by law. The Indian government issues orders that make BIS certification compulsory for certain categories of products to protect public interest. This means that products cannot be manufactured, imported, or sold in India unless they are BIS-certified.
2. Consumer Safety
BIS standards are designed to protect human health and safety, the environment, and fair trade practices. Certified products must meet these standards, so consumers can trust that they are using safe and reliable goods.
3. Market Access
Retailers, e-commerce platforms, and distributors often require BIS certification before they will list or sell a product. Certification increases acceptance in the market and allows wider distribution.
4. Customs Clearance
When imported goods reach Indian ports, customs officials check whether they have the correct BIS certification if required. Without a valid certificate, shipments may be held, rejected, or returned to the origin country.
Which Products Need BIS Certification?
Not all products in India require BIS certification. However, the government has made certification compulsory for many products through official notifications. These include:
- Household appliances like water heaters, pressure cookers, and kitchen equipment
- Electrical and electronic products such as LED lights, adapters, and cables
- Construction materials like steel and cement
- Toys and child safety products
- Medical devices and safety equipment
- Certain chemicals and packaged water
The list is updated from time to time, and it now includes hundreds of different product categories.
Types of BIS Certification Schemes
BIS offers different schemes for product certification depending on the type of product and where it is manufactured:
1. ISI Mark Scheme
This is the most traditional BIS certification. It applies to many industrial and household products. Products certified under this scheme can carry the ISI mark.
2. Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)
This scheme applies mainly to electronics and IT products like mobile phones, LED lights, laptops, and power adapters. Under this scheme, products must be tested in an accredited lab and then registered with BIS.
3. Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)
This scheme is for products manufactured outside India and imported into India. Foreign manufacturers must obtain BIS certification so that their products can be legally imported and sold in the Indian market.
BIS Certification for Import: What You Need to Know
If you plan to import products into India, BIS certification often plays a major role:
1. Mandatory for Certain Imports
If your product falls under the list of goods that require BIS certification, you must have valid certification before the product can be imported and cleared by customs.
2. Manufacturer Must Be Certified
BIS certification is issued in the name of the manufacturer, not the importer or distributor. For imported goods, the overseas manufacturer must obtain the certificate.
3. Foreign Manufacturers Can Apply
Manufacturers outside India can apply directly for BIS certification under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme. This often involves product testing and factory audits to ensure compliance.
4. Authorized Indian Representative
Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) — a person or entity in India who handles communication with BIS and manages compliance matters on behalf of the manufacturer.
5. Customs Checks
Importers must present the correct BIS certificate to customs authorities when goods arrive in India. Without it, customs may refuse clearance, delay the shipment, or impose penalties.
How BIS Certification Works (Step by Step)
Here’s a simplified overview of the BIS certification process:
- Identify Applicable Standards
First, determine if your product requires BIS certification and which Indian Standard applies. - Prepare Documents
Compile technical specifications, factory details, manufacturing process information, and testing reports. - Submit Application
File the application with BIS and pay the required fees. - Product Testing
Products may be tested in BIS-recognized laboratories to ensure conformity to standards. - Factory Inspection
For certain schemes, BIS officials may inspect the manufacturing facility to check quality systems. - Grant of License
Once all requirements are met, BIS issues a certification license. - Use of BIS Mark
After certification, the manufacturer or importer can legally use the BIS Standard Mark on their products.
Benefits of BIS Certification
- Legal permission to sell or import products in India
- Greater trust from customers and business partners
- Faster customs clearance for imports
- Better acceptance across dealers, retailers, and e-commerce platforms
- Protection against legal penalties for non-compliance
Conclusion
BIS certification is a vital part of doing business in India for many products. It ensures that goods meet quality and safety standards, protects consumers, and makes sure that the Indian market remains fair and reliable. Whether you are manufacturing in India or importing goods from overseas, obtaining the right BIS certification is essential to enter the Indian marketplace legally and successfully.
