Step-by-Step BIS Registration Process: Documents, Fees, and Timelines
BIS stands for the Bureau of Indian Standards, which is a way of the Indian government body that ensures that the market sells only high-quality, safe products. BIS is the body responsible for issuing the "seal of approval". It is important for many items, such as electronics, batteries, and toys, to obtain this registration. Without this registration, you wouldn't be able to sell these items in the Indian market. It might seem hard to get the registration, but it is actually a simple process if you follow the steps correctly. This is why we wrote this blog: to help you understand every aspect of the registration, including important documents, fees, timelines, and other key points.
What is BIS, and why do you need it?
The Bureau of Indian Standards is the National Standards Body of India, which was established under the BIS Act, 2016. The primary focus of BIS is to protect Indian consumers from substandard, unsafe, or toxic products.
BIS certification is a driving license for your product. As you cannot legally drive a car without a license in the same way, you cannot legally manufacture, store, or sell specific products in India without a valid BIS license. BIS conducts a rigorous assessment of products, covering additional attributes. However, the assessment may hinder the product's functionality. Not only that, but BIS certification ensures that the product is of the highest quality and doesn't pose any health risks.
Important Documents Required for BIS Registration
It is important to be prepared with the correct documents, as even a small mistake can delay the process. There are some points you need to prove on your end, such as who you are, where your factory is located, and whether your product is safe. Companies outside India must take an extra step and appoint an Authorised Indian Representative (AIR) who can talk to the government on their behalf. Not only that, but you also need to make sure that all your papers are in English or include an official translation. When you have all the documents ready, the process will be faster and smoother. Here are the documents that you need to provide:
- Business registration proof: One of the most important documents is the certificate of incorporation or business license. These show your company's name and address.
- Factory address proof: Documents like an electricity bill, a rent agreement, or property tax, which show where your factory is located.
- Identity proof for the signatory: Submit the Aadhar card, PAN card, or passport of the person signing the documents.
- Manufacturing process flow: You also need to submit a simple chart that shows every step in how your product is made, from raw materials to the final item.
- List of machinery: A detailed list of the machines you use in your factory to manufacture and check the quality of your products.
- Product technical details: You must submit the user manual, schematic diagrams, and technical specifications that explain how the product works.
- Self-declaration of conformity: Submit a formal statement signed by you confirming that your product complies with all required Indian standards.
Step-by-Step BIS Registration Process
Before you start, it is important to know that there are different ways to get your license depending on your product. Most people use the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) or the ISI mark scheme. However, the process starts by identifying your product category and ends with receiving your official BIS certificate. This is where you will need to communicate with both online and offline portals and testing laboratories. Not only this, but it is also important that you follow the process in the right order so that your application doesn't get rejected. Here are the simple steps that you need to follow:
- Identify your product category: To start, check whether your product requires mandatory registration. You can check by visiting the official website of the BIS product list and its IS code.
- Create an account: The next step is to create your profile on the official BIS portal and register as a manufacturer. You just have to provide your email, phone number, and company details.
- Generate a test request: Then log in to your account to request a test for your product samples through a BIS-recognised laboratory.
- Get product testing done: Now you need to send your product samples to the lab, where they will test them to ensure they meet Indian safety and quality standards.
- Receive the test report: Once your product has been tested, the lab will provide you with a report that is valid for .
- Submit the online application: Complete the form on the portal and upload your verified test report, along with other important documents.
- Wait for scrutiny: After you submit your application, BIS officials will review your documents and reports to ensure they are correct and meet their strict requirements.
-
Receive your certificate: If everything is in order, BIS will issue
you a registration number, such as
R-41100xxx, and you will receive your official certificate.
Cost and Fees for Certification
It is an investment to obtain a BIS certificate, and there are various fees to consider. This fee structure depends on whether your business is large or small (e.g., an MSME) and the type of product you are registering. First, you will have to pay for the application, then testing in the lab, and sometimes for an official to visit your factory. Make sure to check the latest fee structure on the BIS website to find the exact fees.
BIS Certification Fee Structure
| Fee Type | Amount / Details |
|---|---|
| Application Fees | One-time fee of approximately ₹1,000, paid at the time of form submission. |
| Processing Fees | For electronics under CRS, these can range up to ₹50,000 and are valid for 2 years. |
| Product Testing Fee | Paid directly to the private lab; varies based on your product's complexity. |
| Inspection Fees | Approximately ₹7,000 per day to cover travel and accommodation if an official visits your factory. |
| Annual License Fees | Approximately ₹1,000 per year to keep your certificate active. |
| Marking Fees | Extra fees based on the number of units of the product you produce or sell in the market. |
Timelines for Approval
Time is a crucial factor when launching a new product. This is why you plan for about 1–4 months to finish everything. The timeline depends on how quickly the laboratory tests your products and how quickly BIS reviews your application. If your papers are missing something, the government may ask questions, which could delay your process by weeks and push it beyond the timeline.
However, there are special "Tatkal" schemes for some products that can speed up processing; for most items, you should expect the standard processing time. If you plan, it will help you avoid the launch date of your product.
Conclusion
Obtaining a BIS registration may seem like a complex hurdle, but it is a vital step toward building a trustworthy brand in the Indian market. Beyond legal compliance, the BIS seal serves as a badge of quality, building consumer trust and ensuring your products are safe for public use.
By preparing your documents in advance, choosing the right laboratory, and understanding the fee structure, you can navigate the process smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays. Remember, while the initial investment of time and money is significant, the access it provides to one of the world's largest consumer bases is well worth the effort.
FAQs
1. Is BIS mandatory for all products?
No, it is not mandatory for everything. It is only required for the products listed by the government in Quality Control Order (QCO), such as electronics, toys, and steel.
2. Can a foreign manufacturer apply for BIS?
Yes, they can. However, they have to take an extra step and involve an Authorised Indian Representative (AIR) based in India to manage the application and ensure compliance.
3. What happens if I sell products without BIS?
Selling those mandatory products without the BIS mark is illegal, and you have to pay heavy fines, seizure of goods, or even legal action against the company as well.
4. For how long is the BIS certificate valid?
Most of the BIS licenses are valid for 2 years. However, you need to start the renewal process at least 90 days before the expiry date.
5. Do I need to send samples to India for testing?
Yes, for most schemes, like CRS, the product needs to be tested in a BIS-authorised laboratory, and the laboratory should be located in India as well.
6. Can I use one registration for multiple models?
Sometimes you can include similar models under one registration; it would be called inclusion, but it must follow the specific grouping rules set by BIS.
Also Read: Why BIS Registration is Mandatory for Manufacturers in India
Understand why BIS registration is legally mandatory for manufacturers in India, including compliance requirements, penalties, and benefits under the BIS Act.
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