Published: 22 May 2026
BIS Certification for Amusement Machines and Personal Service Machines under QCO 2026
Omega QMS Compliance Insights
Omega QMS
Amusement machines and personal service machines, electrically powered devices used in entertainment, gaming and personal service applications, are covered under the Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2026, commonly referred to as QCO 2026. BIS certification is mandatory for all such appliances before they can be sold or imported in India.
Covered Products
Amusement Machines and Personal Service Machines
Applicable Indian Standard
IS 302 (Part 1): 2024. Household and Similar Electrical Appliances, Safety: Part 1 General Requirements (technically equivalent to IEC 60335-1: 2020).
Key Requirements Under Scheme-I
BIS Licence
A BIS licence under Scheme-I is mandatory before any sale or import.
Product Testing
Testing at a BIS-recognised laboratory against IS 302 (Part 1): 2024.
Factory Inspection
Factory inspection and audit by BIS.
ISI Marking
ISI marking is required on every certified unit.
Ongoing Surveillance
Ongoing surveillance audits to maintain licence validity.
Critical Note: Scope Clarification
“Amusement machines and personal service machines” is a broad category. In the context of QCO 2026 and IS 302, this covers electrically powered personal service equipment within the voltage scope of the order, such as:
- Coin-operated personal service devices
- Vending-type personal care machines
- Similar appliances within the voltage scope of the order
Large commercial gaming machines or slot machines with higher voltage or power specifications may fall under different regulatory frameworks. Importers should conduct a product-specific applicability assessment to confirm scope before filing for BIS certification.
Why This Category Matters
Amusement and personal service machines are imported for use in hotels, malls, entertainment centres and commercial establishments. Many importers in this segment have operated without mandatory BIS certification until QCO 2026. Non-compliance after October 2026 results in import bans and penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.
Compliance Dates
General
Other than micro and small enterprises
Date has passed
Small Enterprises
Micro Enterprises
Key Exemptions
Export Manufacturing
Goods manufactured domestically solely for export are exempt.
R&D Imports
Up to 200 units per year may be imported for R&D without BIS certification, provided they are not sold commercially. Year-wise records must be maintained.
Existing Stock
Declared stock held by a BIS-certified manufacturer (or one who has applied) may be sold for up to six months from the implementation date, subject to a declaration to BIS.
Conclusion
Amusement machines and personal service machines are listed under QCO 2026. Given the broad scope of this category, a formal product-level applicability assessment is strongly recommended before filing for BIS certification. Importers must initiate this process well ahead of the October 2026 deadline.
How Omega QMS Supports BIS Certification for Amusement and Personal Service Machines
Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. assists Indian manufacturers, foreign manufacturers and importers in determining the precise QCO applicability for amusement and personal service machines and obtaining BIS certification where required under the Electrical Appliances QCO 2026.
- Product-level QCO applicability assessment for amusement and personal service equipment
- Exemption eligibility assessment for R&D imports and export manufacturing
- BIS certification strategy and documentation for Indian and foreign manufacturers
- Coordination with BIS-recognised testing laboratories for IS 302 compliance
- Authorised Indian Representative (AIR) services for foreign manufacturers
- Customs documentation support for compliant import clearance
The QCO Is Notified: Uncertainty Has a Cost
Get a product-level applicability assessment and a clear view of your BIS certification requirements for amusement and personal service machines.
Reference: Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2026 (QCO 2026). Applicable standard: IS 302 (Part 1): 2024.
