BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certification is India’s official product conformity assessment system, established under the BIS Act, 1986 and administered by the Government of India.
It ensures product quality, safety, and reliability, protects consumer interests, and promotes fair competition.
BIS certification includes three major schemes:
Compulsory ISI Mark Certification
Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)
Voluntary Certification
As the only national standards body authorized to issue product certifications, BIS certification is a key compliance requirement for selling goods in India.
The Bureau of Indian Standards operates under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution. Established in 1955, BIS oversees over 1,000+ product categories under its certification system.
BIS performs several key national and international functions:
1️⃣ Formulating and promoting Indian Standards (IS).
2️⃣ Operating product certification and registration schemes.
3️⃣ Representing India in ISO and IEC standardization activities.
BIS operates through 5 regional offices and 19 branch offices, supported by 8 in-house testing laboratories and numerous recognized partner labs (ISO/IEC 17025:1999 accredited), ensuring professionalism and credibility in the certification process.
Applicable Products:
Cement, steel products, automotive components, household appliances (e.g., electric irons, kettles), tungsten filament lamps, plugs, electric cables, etc.
Certification Mode:
Product testing
Initial factory audit
Post-certification surveillance
Applicable Products:
Information Technology and electronic equipment such as:
Laptops, tablets, mobile phones, LED lamps, adapters, UPS systems, batteries, and power banks.
Certification Mode:
Product testing
Post-certification surveillance
For products not covered under compulsory certification, manufacturers can apply voluntarily to enhance brand reputation and consumer confidence.
1️⃣ Document & Sample Preparation:
Submit technical documents and product samples to a BIS-recognized testing agency.
2️⃣ Document Review & Sample Dispatch:
Testing agency reviews documents and forwards samples to a BIS-approved laboratory in India.
3️⃣ Product Testing:
Laboratory performs testing according to applicable Indian Standards (IS) and issues a test report.
4️⃣ Registration Application:
The applicant or authorized representative compiles all documents and submits the BIS registration application.
5️⃣ Approval & Certificate Issuance:
BIS reviews the application and test reports, then issues a BIS Registration Certificate and unique registration number.
✅ Duly completed BIS application form
✅ Appointment letter for Indian Authorized Representative (IAR) or proof of Indian branch office
✅ Company Registration Certificate and business license
✅ Manufacturing process description
✅ Quality control documents (Quality Manual, Test Plan, etc.)
✅ List of critical components and suppliers
✅ Factory layout and geographical location map
✅ Laboratory accreditation certificates and personnel qualification proofs
✅ Product design drawings and test reports from recognized labs
✅ Bank fee receipt or payment proof
1️⃣ Certificate Validity: Usually valid for 1 year.
2️⃣ Renewal: Requires timely renewal application and payment of annual fees.
3️⃣ Acceptance of CB Reports: BIS accepts IECEE CB Scheme test reports for certain electronic products to simplify the process.
✅ Ensure the factory address is clearly stated in the application.
✅ Equip the factory with testing facilities that meet relevant Indian Standards.
✅ Verify product design complies with applicable IS standards before submission.
✅ Work with a local Indian agent familiar with BIS procedures to avoid communication delays.
1️⃣ Mandatory Compliance: Products listed under the BIS compulsory list must obtain certification before sale or import into India.
2️⃣ Testing Must Be in India: All product samples are tested in BIS-approved Indian labs.
3️⃣ Local Representative Requirement: Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Indian Authorized Representative (IAR).
4️⃣ Labeling: Certified products must display the ISI Mark or CRS Registration Number visibly.
Q1: Is BIS certification mandatory for all products in India?
A: No. Only products listed under the BIS mandatory schedule require certification. Others can choose voluntary certification.
Q2: How long does BIS certification take?
A: Typically 6–10 weeks, depending on testing complexity and document completeness.
Q3: Can overseas manufacturers apply for BIS certification directly?
A: No. You must apply through an Indian Authorized Representative (IAR).
Q4: Can CB test reports be used for BIS certification?
A: Yes, for certain electronic products, CB reports can help speed up the process.
Q5: What happens if a product is sold without BIS certification?
A: Non-certified products may be seized, and the manufacturer or importer may face penalties or bans.
Need professional help with India BIS certification or CRS registration?
BLUEASIA provides complete consulting and testing solutions — from sample preparation to registration approval.
king.guo@cblueasia.com
+86 13534225140
www.blueasialabs.com
BLUEASIA – Your Global Partner for Product Certification and Market Access.
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