How to Obtain BIS CRS Certification for Mobile Phone Handsets with Indian Language Support

India is one of the largest smartphone and mobile handset markets, with millions of sales per year. But, prior to any mobile phone handset being legally sold in India, manufacturers need to make sure that they are in accordance with the rules and regulations set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), which includes the BIS Certification for mobile phone handsets, is one of the key criteria.

Mobile phone handsets follow IS 16333 (Part-3) 2022, setting rules for providing phones with Indian language support. This standard is crucial; without it, both domestic and foreign manufacturers can’t sell in India. So, meeting these requirements is a must for any company looking to enter the market.

This guide covers the process of BIS certification requirements, documentation, cost and compliance aspects when it comes to mobile phone handsets BIS certification in India.

Understanding BIS CRS Certification for Mobile Phone Handsets

The Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) is being run by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, relating to electronic and IT products.

For the manufacturers, the product should be tested in a BIS-recognised laboratory before obtaining the registration under the CRS and should meet the Indian Standard. 

To prove support for Indian languages and facilitate easy use for users, compliance with IS 16333 (Part-3) is a must for mobile phone handsets.

Products Covered Under IS 16333 (Part-3)

These are usually the products that are certified:

• Mobile phone handsets
• Smartphones
• Feature phones
• Cellular-enabled communication devices
• Voice communication handsets
• Devices for use on public telecommunication networks

Indian as well as foreign manufacturers have to be certified to sell them in India.

Key Highlights for Mobile Phone Handsets

• Mandatory Compliance Requirement: Mobile phone handsets covered under the CRS framework cannot be sold in India without BIS registration.
• Applicable to all Indian and Foreign Manufacturers: Indian or Foreign Manufacturers who sell their products in India must obtain the certificate.
• Product Testing: Product testing shall be done with an approved laboratory by BIS.
• Before Market Entry: Registration before entry into India by Manufacturers.
• Indian Language Accessibility: The standard emphasises Indian language accessibility and usability with its support for Indian languages and its features.

Applicable Test Parameters for Mobile Phone Handsets Under CRS

Tests are done to ensure conformance of the requirements mentioned in IS 16333 (Part-3).

Some of the factors that can be important are:

• Indian Language Support
• Input Method Support
• User Interface Accessibility
• Messages and communications support
• Character Rendering
• Accessibility Features
• Functional Compliance

The test requirements may be different for different product categories and software configurations, due to regulatory updates.

Basic Requisites for BIS Licence: 4 Pillars

The four basic requirements to get BIS Registration successful.

1. Eligibility of the manufacturer: The manufacturer is only eligible to apply for BIS registration. Importers, traders and distributors are not allowed to apply in their names.
2. BIS-Recognised Laboratory Test Report: The product should be tested by an approved laboratory of the BIS, and the approved laboratory should issue a valid test report.
3. Manufacturing Infrastructure: The production plant should be equipped with the required infrastructure and quality control to produce quality products as per the legislation at all times. 
4. Establishing Authorised Indian Representative (AIR): As per the directions given by BIS, the foreign manufacturer must have their Authorised Indian Representative (AIR) to interact with the regulatory and communicate with BIS.

Documents Required for BIS CRS Certification

Typically, the documents that need to be submitted during an application are as follows:

• Business Registration Certificate: In which proof of incorporation (company), legal entity, etc., is also included.
• Product Description & Specifications: Include all product details and technical specifications. 
• Test Reports: These are created by laboratories that are approved by BIS and indicate that the product meets the relevant standards.
• Business Phone Number: The trademark holder’s business phone.
• Authorisation Letter: Letter to authorise a signatory/representative
• AIR Documents: These documents are compulsory for the organisation abroad that has appointed an Authorised Indian Representative with the company.

Step-by-Step BIS CRS Certification Process for Mobile Phone Handsets

Step 1: Product Profiling & IS Code Identification

The first and foremost step is to assess product specifications and determine the application of Indian Standards for the product. For mobile phone handsets, the relevant standard is IS 16333 (Part-3) of the BIS Scheme.

When the standard is correctly identified, then the following are avoided:

• Incorrect product classification
• Testing discrepancies
• Delays in certification
• Application rejection

Step 2: Sample Testing & Laboratory Coordination

It is also necessary for the product sample to be tested at a BIS-recognised testing laboratory to ensure that it meets the relevant requirements.

At this time, we will support you with:

• Test scheduling
• Laboratory coordination
• Compliance verification
• Test report management

If the test is successful, then the mobile handset will pass the BIS requirements.

Step 3: Documentation & Application Package Preparation

All technical and regulatory documents should be completed prior to filing the application.

This typically includes:

• Technical documentation
• Displays circuit diagrams and schematics
• Product specifications
• User manuals
• Manufacturing and quality control documents
• Declarations and affidavits
• Authorised Indian Representative (AIR) documents for foreign manufacturers

All preparations of documents are in line with BIS CRS guidelines.

Step 4: Application Submission & BIS Review

Testing and documents are prepared, and an application is placed on the BIS CRS portal once these are done.

The officials from BIS may seek other clarifications, technical or procedural, on the paper during the review. Our staff are working closely with the BIS team,who are also ensuring that we are responding in time to ensure the supplies are processed smoothly.

Step 5: Grant of R-Number & BIS Registration

Following successful review and approval, BIS issues:

• CRS Registration Certificate
• BIS R-Number

Registration is normally valid for a period of 2 years. Once approved, legal manufacturing, importation, distribution and sale of the product is allowed in India.

Step 6: Marking & Labelling Compliance

The manufacturers are required to ensure compliance with the BIS marking and labelling requirements of the product and the packaging.

This includes:

• Correct use of the BIS Standard Mark
• To demonstrate the assigned R-Number
• A proper placement and visibility of the label
• Packaging compliance requirements

Step 7: Renewal, Model Inclusion & Surveillance Support

It doesn’t stop upon registering. Manufacturers need to keep going the way of regulatory compliance; they cannot stop during the product life cycle.

UMSPCS supports the following:

• CRS registration renewal
• Include new product models.
• BIS surveillance requirements
• Any updates on changing BIS rules and standards are available

Cost of BIS Certification for Mobile Phone Handsets

There are a number of factors to determine the overall certification costs:

• Testing Charges: The charges to be paid for laboratory testing depend on the complexity of the product(s) and what tests are performed.
• Government Registration Fees: Registration fees imposed by the government, which are given by BIS.
• Professional Advice Charges: Advice, documentation, compliance, application and coordination.
• Additional Costs: For transporting samples, changes of product specifications, and retesting/analysis expenses as necessary.

Certain product specifications and scope of certification may result in different costs; manufacturers shall perform a detailed compliance evaluation prior to starting the certification procedure.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Mobile Phone Handsets

• Legal Market Access: Product can be legally sold and distributed throughout India.
• Consumer Confidence: Improves customer confidence by meeting recognised standards of quality.
• Ensures regulatory compliance, which can help cut the threat of penalties, product recalls and import restrictions.
• Competitive Advantage: Certified products are more likely to be accepted in the market.
• Better Product Quality: Promotes compliance with quality and production procedures.

BIS ISI Certification vs CRS Registration

The confusion that is created amongst manufacturers often claims BIS ISI certification for Indian manufacturers as if these two are synonymous.

This ISI Mark Scheme is primarily for products from factories under mandatory Quality control orders for product certification and factory surveillance.

While mobile phone handsets are regulated by the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), the products are made subject to product testing and registration instead of ISI marking.

Manufacturers need to determine which area of their product the certification pathway applies to.

Why Choose UMSPCS for BIS Certification?

It can be a complex process to get BIS certification, particularly when the manufacturer is not very experienced in meeting the requirements of India. UMSPCS, with 600+ Successful Compliance Projects, helps simplify the process with end-to-end compliance support.

• Complete Documentation Support
• Laboratory Coordination
• Expert Regulatory Guidance
• Forage manufacturers got special support
• Faster Certification Process

Conclusion

The Indian mobile handset market is vast in opportunities for the mobile handset manufacturers, but to enter the market, it is essential to follow the set regulations. BIS Certification of Mobile Phone Handsets is the compliance with the compulsory requirements mentioned in the Indian Standards IS 16333 (Part-3), which includes language support, accessibility and quality testing.

Whether it’s a matter of Indian manufacturers seeking BIS ISI certification foreign manufacturers seeking BIS certification, a well-planned approach in combination with expert guidance can make the certification process a lot simpler. 

Getting help with BIS Certification?

UMSPCS provides comprehensive support in coordinating the tests, preparing the documentation and filing an application for BIS, along with managing the compliance of the regulations. Get ahead in India with your product and leave the fear and apprehensions behind, and talk to our experts today.

Read more also: BEE Certification Registration in India: Complete Guide

FAQs

1. How to get BIS Certified Mobile Phone Handsets in India?

Firms need to take the product to a BIS-recognised laboratory for testing, file a CRS registration application, and submit other paperwork.

2. Is BIS Certification for Mobile Phone Handsets mandatory before selling products in India?

Yes, Individuals looking to sell mobile phone handsets in the Indian market have to get them registered by the BIS (IS 16333 Part-3).

3. Is it possible to apply for a BIS Certificate for a Foreign Brand’s Mobile Phone Handset?

Yes. Foreign manufacturers need to appoint an Authorised Indian Representative and go through the procedure of registering the CRS to get certification.

4. What are the documents necessary for Mobile Phone Handsets certification by BIS?

Foreign manufacturers’ key documents include test reports, business register documents, product specifications, technical documents and AIR-related documents.

5. What is the validity period of the BIS Certificate for Mobile Phone Handsets under CRS?

The generally accepted term for granting the registration is for a fixed time and can be renewed according to BIS guidelines.

6. What services UMSPCS offers regarding Mobile phone Handsets Certification for BIS?

From documentation, test coordination, application filing, compliance review, to support from Indian and foreign manufacturers, we have an end-to-end solution to their queries.