BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer in India – Guide

Introduction

India is one of the largest consumer markets in the world, attracting manufacturers from across the globe. However, to ensure product safety, quality, and compliance, the Indian government mandates BIS approval for several product categories. For overseas companies, obtaining a BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer is essential before entering the Indian market.

This blog explains the BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer, BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturer, and the complete BIS Registration for Foreign Manufacturer process in simple language.

What is BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturer?

The BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturer is a mandatory conformity assessment scheme under which foreign manufacturers must comply with Indian Standards before exporting regulated products to India.

Foreign manufacturers are certified under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), which allows them to use the ISI mark on their products once approved.

Who Needs BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer?

Any foreign manufacturer exporting products notified under mandatory BIS certification must obtain a BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer.

Products commonly covered include:

• Electrical appliances
  
  

• Electronics and IT products
  
  

• Cement and steel products
  
  

• Chemicals
  
  

• Toys
  
  

• Household and consumer goods
  
  

Without BIS approval, these products cannot be legally sold in India.

Difference Between BIS License and BIS Registration for Foreign Manufacturer

Many manufacturers confuse certification with registration. Here’s the difference:

• BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer:
  Issued under the ISI certification scheme for products requiring factory inspection and product marking.
  
  

• BIS Registration for Foreign Manufacturer:
  Issued under the CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme), mainly for electronics and IT products.
  
  

Both forms fall under BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturer, depending on product category.

BIS Certification Process for Foreign Manufacturer

Understanding the BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturer process helps reduce delays and costs.

Step 1: Identify Applicable Indian Standard

Each product must comply with a specific Indian Standard (IS).

Step 2: Nomination of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)

Foreign manufacturers must appoint an AIR in India to coordinate with BIS authorities.

Step 3: Application Submission

The manufacturer submits an application for BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer along with:

• Factory details
  
  

• Product specifications
  
  

• Quality control documents
  
  

Step 4: Product Testing

Product samples are tested in BIS-recognized laboratories as per Indian Standards.

Step 5: Factory Inspection

BIS officials conduct an on-site inspection of the foreign manufacturing unit.

Step 6: Grant of BIS Certificate

After successful evaluation, BIS issues the BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer, allowing use of the ISI mark or registration number.

Documents Required for BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer

To obtain a BIS Certificate for Foreign Manufacturer, the following documents are required:

• Factory business license
  
  

• Manufacturing process flow chart
  
  

• List of machinery and testing equipment
  
  

• Quality control manuals
  
  

• Product test reports
  
  

• AIR authorization letter
  
  

Accurate documentation is critical for smooth approval.

Cost of BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturer

The BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturer cost depends on:

• Product category
  
  

• Number of variants
  
  

• Testing complexity
  
  

• Factory location
  
  

Cost Components Include:

• Application fee
  
  

• Product testing charges
  
  

• Factory inspection fee
  
  

• BIS license fee
  
  

• Annual marking fee
  
  

The overall cost generally ranges from ₹50,000 to ₹3,00,000 or more, depending on product and country.

Validity and Renewal of BIS License

• BIS licenses are usually valid for 1–2 years
  
  

• Renewal must be applied before expiry
  
  

• Any change in product design or manufacturing process requires fresh approval
  
  

Timely renewal ensures uninterrupted market access.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturer

Obtaining a BIS License for Foreign Manufacturer offers several advantages:

• Legal entry into Indian market
  
  

• Increased trust among Indian consumers
  
  

• Compliance with Indian laws
  
  

• Avoidance of penalties and import restrictions
  
  

• Strong brand credibility
  
  

BIS certification acts as a quality assurance badge in India.

Common Challenges Faced by Foreign Manufacturers

Foreign manufacturers often face challenges such as:

• Language barriers
  
  

• Complex documentation
  
  

• Delays in testing and inspection
  
  

• Coordination with BIS authorities
  
  

Professional guidance can significantly reduce these hurdles.

Conclusion

The sunconsultants.co.in. is mandatory for exporting regulated products to India. Whether it is BIS Registration for Foreign Manufacturer under CRS or BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturer under ISI marking, compliance with BIS standards is non-negotiable.