This is a common question for importers and brand owners planning to sell products in the Indian market. Whether an importer can apply for BIS Certification depends on the applicable BIS scheme and the manufacturing location of the product.

The first step is to identify the relevant Indian Standard (IS) and determine whether the product falls under the ISI Certification Scheme (license-based certification with factory surveillance) or the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), which mainly applies to electronics and IT products. Defining the product scope clearly—by listing models or variants, technical ratings, and safety-critical components—helps ensure accurate testing and documentation.

For CRS-covered products, the BIS registration is issued in the name of the manufacturer, not the importer. However, an Indian importer or brand owner can apply on behalf of a foreign manufacturer by being appointed as an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR). In this role, the importer manages testing, documentation, application submission, and coordination with BIS.

For products under the ISI Certification Scheme, BIS issues the license directly to the manufacturing unit after a factory inspection and assessment of production controls. An importer cannot obtain an ISI license in their own name unless they also own or operate the manufacturing facility. In the case of foreign manufacturers, the importer may act as the AIR, but the license remains in the manufacturer’s name.

The application process involves preparing a complete technical dossier, including product drawings, specifications, bill of materials, safety declarations, quality system evidence, and compliant labeling artwork. Testing must be conducted at a BIS-recognized laboratory, followed by online submission of reports and documents.

After approval, strict compliance with BIS marking and packaging requirements—using the ISI mark with CM/L number or the CRS R-number along with the applicable IS reference—is mandatory. Importers should also track renewals, surveillance obligations, and product changes to maintain continuous compliance.

A structured, checklist-based approach—covering scope definition, documentation, testing, application, and post-approval controls—helps importers navigate BIS certification smoothly and avoid regulatory issues.

URL:- https://bis-certifications.com/importer-apply-for-bis-certificate-in-india