BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer: Complete Guide

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:

1. Legal Market Entry
   It allows your products to be legally imported and sold in India without customs objections.
   
   

2. Indian Consumer Trust
   BIS certification builds confidence among Indian consumers as it assures safety and quality.
   
   

3. Business Expansion
   You can expand your brand presence in one of the world’s largest markets.
   
   

4. 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

Both processes serve different purposes but are equally important for compliance.

Process for BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer

The process includes several detailed steps:

1. Application Submission
   The foreign manufacturer applies to BIS through the FMCS portal with company, product, and factory details.
   
   

2. Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
   Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative who will act as a legal liaison with BIS.
   
   

3. Product Testing in Recognized Labs
   Product samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories as per the relevant Indian Standard.
   
   

4. Factory Audit by BIS Officials
   BIS officials visit the foreign manufacturing facility to assess quality control, production, and testing infrastructure.
   
   

5. 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:

1. Product Testing
   Samples are tested in BIS-recognized labs.
   
   

2. Online Registration Application
   The manufacturer submits the test report and company details on the BIS CRS portal.
   
   

3. Document Verification
   BIS verifies documents and test results.
   
   

4. 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.