How Foreign Manufacturers Can Get BIS Certification to Enter the Indian Market

BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturers Overview

BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturers provides assurance that products intended to be sold or imported into India comply with the Indian Standards (IS) relating to safety, performance, and quality.

In order to allow foreign manufacturers to apply for BIS Certification directly, BIS allows applications for certification under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) that enables foreign manufacturers to affix the ISI Mark to their products, verifying compliance with Indian safety and quality standards.

Why BIS Certification Matters for Foreign Companies

For international manufacturers of consumer merchandise, obtaining BIS Certification is much more than just regulatory compliance; it is a trust and quality signal.  Here’s why it’s essential:

• Legal Requirement: If a product is included in the BIS Compulsory Certification Scheme, BIS Certification is mandatory.

  
  

• Market Access: Without prior BIS approval, no goods can be sold in India.

• Consumer Confidence: ISI-marked products are preferred by Indian customers.

• Brand Credibility: Obtaining the ISI Mark improves the credibility of your brand while at the same time ensuring regulatory compliance.

Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS): Overview

BIS issues licenses through the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme for foreign manufacturers who comply with Indian Standards. When a foreign manufacturer is issued a license, marking their product with the ISI Mark means it is compliant in all respects.

Key Features of FMCS:

• The scheme covers both mandatory and voluntary certification products.

• On-site inspection by BIS officials is required.

• A BIS Liaison Officer must be appointed in India.

• The certificate is valid for one year and can be renewed annually.

Step-by-Step Guide for BIS’s (FMCS) Certification for Foreign Manufacturers

Step 1: Identify Product & Indian Standard (IS Code)
Determine if your product is on the mandatory BIS certification list and find the relevant Indian standard.

Step 2: Appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) who would coordinate with the BIS for the manufacturer.

Step 3: Submit Application with BIS. 

Prepare the application form, technical documents, test reports, manufacturing information, and quality control plan, along with submissions.

Step 4: Factory Inspection by BIS Officials
BIS officers will visit the foreign manufacturing facility to verify production capability, testing infrastructure, and quality systems.

Step 5: Product Testing in BIS-Approved Labs
Samples of the product are tested in BIS-recognized laboratories to ensure conformity with Indian standards.

Step 6: Grant of BIS License
Once compliance is verified, BIS issues the ISI Mark License under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).

Step 7: Renewal and Surveillance
Periodic audits and product testing ensure ongoing compliance.

Documents Needed for BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturers

• Business License or Incorporation Certificate

• ISO 9001 Certificate (if applicable)

• Details of Manufacturing Process and Machinery

• Authorized Indian Representative Details

• Product Test Reports

• Factory Layout and Location Details

• Quality Control Manual

Examples of Foreign Manufacturers in India

There are many foreign car manufacturers in India, such as Hyundai, Toyota, and Mercedes-Benz, that are compliant with BIS and Indian standards. Likewise, electronics, medical devices, and electrical equipment manufacturers from Japan, the USA, South Korea, and Germany routinely obtain BIS certification to gain unencumbered access to the Indian market.

Advantages of BIS Certification for Foreign Producers

• Access to the fast-growing Indian consumer base

• Lower chances of product rejection at customs checkpoints

• Enhanced reputation of your brand and trust in the market

• Less complexity is involved in the import and distribution process

• Compliance with regulatory and legal requirements as set out by the government of India

Conclusion

The Indian market offers tremendous opportunities for foreign producers, but compliance is the most important factor for sustained success. When you have a BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturers from the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), you are compliant with the legal requirements for India while developing consumer trust and credibility for your brand.