Why Should Manufacturers Apply for a BIS ISI License Before Market Launch?

A product may be ready for production, beautifully packaged, competitively priced, and prepared for launch, but without the applicable BIS ISI Licence, the launch could face regulatory hurdles.

For manufacturers looking to enter the Indian market, compliance should be on their radar long before launch. In many cases, BIS ISI Certification is compulsory before manufacturing, importing, selling, storing, or distributing products.

While the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) states that certification is generally voluntary, the central government can notify specific products for compulsory certification through Quality Control Orders (QCO).

Therefore, BIS ISI Certification for Indian manufacturers is something that should be planned for ahead of the launch window. Applying early means manufacturers can address any issues with testing, preparation, and documentation beforehand.

In this blog, we will discuss why manufacturers should obtain a BIS ISI License before launch, legal requirements, documents, process, timelines, validity, common challenges, and the role of a BIS ISI Certification Consultant.

What is a BIS ISI License?

The BIS ISI License is the approval from BIS for a manufacturer to apply the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) on products that are compliant with applicable Indian Standards (IS).

As per the BIS Act, 2016, the Central Government can make it mandatory to apply for a Standard Mark for specified goods notified by them. The reasons can include the need to establish standards for public health and safety, the environment, and to prevent unfair trade practices and threats to national security.

Section 17 of the Act makes the manufacture, import, sale, distribution, exhibition for sale, and storage of notified goods without the Standard Mark illegal under a valid licence.

Therefore, the first step for manufacturers is to understand if their product requires one.

Why Should BIS Certification Be Completed Before Product Launch?

Launching the product first and then addressing compliance can lead to unnecessary costs and regulatory issues. Here are some reasons why a pre-launch BIS certification is a wise strategy.

• Avoid Regulatory Hurdles After Launch
• Address Challenges With Testing, Preparations, And Documentation Beforehand
• Avoid Delays In Production
• Reduce The Risk Of Non-Compliant Inventory
• Gain Buyer And Distributor Confidence
• Ensure A Smooth Launch Process

Which Products Require BIS ISI Certification?

BIS ISI Certification is generally not mandatory for any product. However, specific goods are notified by the central government for compulsory BIS certification through Quality Control Orders (QCO).

BIS has a ‘Know Your Standard’ portal where users can search by IS Number or keywords related to the product.

Once the product is shortlisted, users can find the applicable standard, amendments, Scheme of Testing and Inspection, laboratories, and licence details.

This product-wise requirement is critical because the requirements, testing procedures, scope, marking, and other applicable schemes can vary from product to product.

Documents Required For BIS ISI Certificate in India

The specific documents may vary depending on the product category and IS code. However, generally, manufacturers may be required to submit some or all of the following documents:

• Basic data about the manufacturing unit and the product segment
• Proof of manufacturing unit address (ownership/lease deed, utility bill, etc.)
• Trademark registration certificate (if the brand name is trademarked)
• Manufacturing licence/statutory approvals (wherever applicable, eg., pollution control board, industry licence, etc.)
• Product drawings/design schematics
• Installed capacity
• List of materials used, their specification, and details
• Details of manufacturing machinery and equipment
• Layout plan of the factory, showing production and testing area, and storage, with a brief description of each
• A detailed description of the manufacturing process is provided
• In-house testing equipment and calibration details
• Details of the quality control personnel
• The factory organisational chart

BIS grant-of-licence guidelines also include calibration certificates, raw-material test certificates, product drawings, plant layout, factory location plan, and quality-control personnel details as documents for verification.

Complete BIS ISI Certification Process For Indian Manufacturers

Step 1: Identify Applicable Indian Standard

The initial step in obtaining BIS ISI Certification is to identify the applicable Indian Standard (IS code).

Manufacturers must:

• Identify the IS code requirements for their product
• Confirm that the product is manufactured to the applicable BIS standards
• Modify or upgrade their processes, if required, for BIS compliance

Step 2: Product Testing & Documentation

After identifying the applicable IS code, the product must be tested as per BIS requirements. At this stage, manufacturers can:

• Test the product samples in the applicable BIS/NABL accredited laboratory
• Prepare technical documents and specifications
• Gather requisite information about the manufacturing process, machinery, and quality-control processes
• Prepare the application forms and submit the documents to BIS

Step 3: Apply For BIS ISI Certification

After completing the product testing and requisite documentation, the manufacturer can apply for BIS ISI Certification in India. The application, along with applicable fees, should be submitted through the online portal.

The application generally includes the following:

• Product test reports
• Factory and manufacturing details
• Technical and supporting documents
• Applicable government fees

After submitting the application, the officials at BIS review the information and the documents.

Step 4: BIS Factory Inspection

BIS conducts a factory inspection to determine if the manufacturer has the requisite infrastructure and processes to manufacture products conforming to the applicable IS code.

During the inspection, the officials can:

• Review the manufacturing processes, production, and facilities
• Evaluate the machinery and equipment
• Review quality control and inspection procedures
• Assess testing equipment and infrastructure
• Evaluate the availability of competent technical personnel
• Additionally, the BIS officials can collect samples for testing

Step 5: Product Testing And Laboratory Report

The samples collected during the inspection are tested in the licensed/ approved laboratory. The laboratory reports are then shared with BIS to evaluate product conformity with the applicable IS code.

Step 6: Closure of Non-Conformities, If Any

If the officials identify any non-conformities during the inspection or testing process, manufacturers must address them.

This can include:

• Making changes to the process or quality-control procedures
• Supplying additional documents, if applicable
• Addressing product non-conformities
• Testing the product again, if required

Once the corrective action is completed and the non-conformities are closed, the process can move to the next stage.

Step 7: Payment of Licence & Marking Fees

After completing the technical inspection and testing, the manufacturer must pay the applicable fees to BIS. This can include the following:

• Payment of licence fees
• Annual licence fees, if applicable
• ISI marking fees or other charges, if applicable
• The fees depend on the product category and the scheme.

Step 8: Grant of BIS ISI Licence

After the technical evaluation, inspection, and product testing are complete, BIS grants the ISI Licence to the manufacturer. The organisation can apply the ISI Mark to the certified products conforming to the applicable IS code.

Costing and Time Taken for BIS ISI Certification

The fee for BIS ISI certification varies according to:

• Product category
• Testing requirements
• Factory size
• Documentation complexity

Since there is no universal standard, the time taken for BIS ISI Certification can vary depending on the product, testing, inspection, queries, and more. 

However, as a ballpark figure, manufacturers can assume that the entire process takes between 30 and 40 days.

Common Challenges Manufacturers Face

Even the most prepared manufacturers can run into roadblocks when applying for BIS ISI Certification.

Some of the most common challenges include:

• Wrong IS Code Selection
• Inadequate Documentation
• Testing Facility Availability
• Testing Equipment Calibration
• Lapses In Quality Control
• Product Failure During Testing
• Product-specific SIT Requirements Inquiries
• Factory Readiness During Inspection
• Response To Queries
• Incorrect Scope Variety In The Application
• Late Payment of Fees
• Failure To Plan Certification Around The Launch Date

These are just some of the challenges that may arise during the application process, which is why working with a reliable BIS ISI Certification Consultant in India can be helpful to manufacturers.

What About BIS Certification For A Foreign Manufacturer?

BIS has specific rules for foreign manufacturers looking to obtain a licence to sell their products in India.

As per the BIS Act, 2016, and relevant regulations, foreign manufacturers must apply for a licence under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).

A foreign manufacturer applying under FMCS must meet the following requirements:

• Compliance with manufacturing licence conditions
• Suitable test facilities
• Qualified testing personnel
• Testing and Inspection Scheme (SIT)

Additional requirements are also applicable for each notified product category.

It is also important to note that the BIS Act, 2016, now mandates that applications for FMCS are to be submitted digitally only.

As such, the certification process for foreign manufacturers should also be planned well ahead of the launch date in India.

How Can UMSPCS Assist You With BIS ISI Certification?

At UMSPCS, we understand that the road to certification can be challenging. That is why we help manufacturers take a systematic approach to BIS ISI Certification. 

Whether you are an Indian manufacturer or a foreign company looking to enter the Indian market, our BIS Certification Consultant can help you identify requirements, address challenges, and more. 

With 6+ years of experience and support with 600+ product compliance requirements, our team can assist you with:

• Product and IS code identification
• Applicability evaluation
• BIS certification requirement analysis
• Document preparation
• Factory Readiness Assessment
• Product testing and laboratory coordination
• Application submission and query response
• Inspection coordination
• Compliance gap analysis
• Licence support
• Renewal assistance

Conclusion

A successful product launch is rarely a matter of creating the product, getting it packaged, and putting it on the shelf. For products requiring BIS ISI Certification, regulatory compliance should be planned well ahead of the launch. 

By applying for a BIS ISI Licence at the right time, manufacturers can get the product tested, address any issues with documentation, factory preparations, and more. This way, there are no regulatory hurdles when launching the product in India. 

Likewise, BIS Certification in India, BIS ISI Certification for Indian manufacturers, and BIS Certification for foreign manufacturers can all benefit from early planning and systematic execution. 

If you are planning to launch a BIS-regulated product in India, contact UMSPCS for BIS ISI Certification Consultant services and start early.

Read more also: BIS Extends Implementation Deadline for IS 16102 to 2 Feb 2027

FAQs

1. Is BIS ISI Certification mandatory for all manufacturers?

While BIS certification is generally voluntary, it may be mandatory for specific goods notified by the central government.

2. Can I sell a notified product without a BIS ISI Licence?

It is illegal to manufacture, import, distribute, sell, exhibit for sale, or store a notified product without a BIS ISI Licence as per the BIS Act.

3. When should I apply for BIS ISI Certification?

It is always best to apply for BIS ISI Certification well ahead of the product launch date.

4. How long does BIS ISI Certification take?

While the time required for BIS ISI Certification can vary, the general timelines are about a month for Option 2 and four months for Option 1 under the Complete Application category.

5. Is a BIS ISI Licence valid forever?

A BIS product certification licence under Scheme-I can be issued for a period of up to two years before renewal.

6. Does BIS inspect the factory?

Yes, BIS can inspect the manufacturing premises to determine the suitability of manufacturing infrastructure, processes, quality control, and testing procedures to be used for the certified product.

7. Can a foreign manufacturer obtain a BIS licence?

Yes, a foreign manufacturer can apply for a BIS licence under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) for notified products.

8. Can a BIS ISI Licence be renewed?

Yes, a BIS ISI Licence can be renewed for the applicable period as per the renewal guidelines and payment of fees.