BIS License for Exporters to India

Komal4 September 2025

India is one of the fastest-growing consumer markets in the world, offering vast opportunities for overseas manufacturers and exporters. However, the Indian government places strong emphasis on product quality, safety, and compliance to protect consumers. To ensure this, many products entering the Indian market are required to comply with the standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Obtaining a BIS license is therefore a crucial step for exporters who intend to sell regulated goods in India.

What is BIS and Why is it Important?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India, functioning under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. It is responsible for formulating Indian Standards, certifying products, and ensuring compliance to safeguard public health, safety, and consumer interests.

For exporters, a BIS license acts as an official approval that their product meets Indian quality and safety standards. Without this certification, certain goods cannot be imported, distributed, or sold in the Indian market.

Applicability of BIS License for Exporters

BIS certification is mandatory for several categories of products, including but not limited to:
Electronics and IT Goods (e.g., laptops, LED lights, printers, mobile phones) under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).
Household Appliances (e.g., refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners).
Construction Materials (e.g., cement, steel, pipes).
Food and Agricultural Products (e.g., packaged drinking water, baby food, milk powders).
Chemicals and Industrial Products.

Exporters must check whether their product falls under the mandatory certification list notified by BIS before planning shipments to India.

Types of BIS Certification Schemes for Exporters

BIS Certification requirements and stakeholder information.
Scheme	Applicability	Key Features
ISI Mark Certification	For products where safety and performance standards are critical (e.g., cement, steel, electrical goods)	Allows use of ISI mark on products
Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)	For electronics and IT goods notified by the Ministry of Electronics & IT	Products must be tested and registered before sale
Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)	For overseas manufacturers producing goods outside India that require BIS license	Enables direct licensing to foreign factories
ECO Mark	For environmentally friendly products	Encourages sustainable and eco-friendly production

BIS License Process for Exporters

Exporters planning to obtain a BIS license must go through a structured process. The steps typically include:

1. Identify Applicable Standard – Determine which Indian Standard (IS) applies to the product.
2. Product Testing in India – Products must be tested in a BIS-recognized laboratory in India.
3. Application Submission – Submit the BIS license application along with required documents.
4. Factory Inspection (for FMCS) – BIS officers may conduct a physical inspection of the overseas unit.
5. Grant of License – If requirements are met, BIS issues a license/registration.

Documents Required for BIS License

Exporters usually need to prepare the following documents:
Factory registration documents and manufacturing license
Quality management system certificates (e.g., ISO 9001, if available)
Layout plan of manufacturing unit
List of machinery and equipment used
Details of raw materials and suppliers
In-house testing facilities and quality checks
Test reports from BIS-approved labs
Nomination of an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) for foreign manufacturers

Role of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)

For foreign manufacturers, appointing an Authorized Indian Representative is mandatory. The AIR acts as a liaison between BIS and the overseas manufacturer, responsible for compliance, communication, and handling regulatory requirements in India.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Exporters

Market Access: Enables legal entry of products into India.
Consumer Trust: BIS mark/registration is recognized as a symbol of quality and safety.
Competitive Advantage: Certified products stand out against uncertified imports.
Regulatory Compliance: Helps avoid shipment delays, customs clearance issues, or penalties.
Brand Reputation: Strengthens the exporter’s brand credibility in the Indian market.

Challenges Exporters May Face

Complex documentation and regulatory procedures.
Time-consuming testing and approval process.
Factory inspection requirements under FMCS.
Cost of compliance, especially for multiple product categories.
Language and coordination barriers without a reliable Indian representative.

In short, for exporters targeting the Indian market, obtaining a BIS license is not just a regulatory requirement but also a strategic step toward building long-term business opportunities. With growing demand for safe, reliable, and high-quality products in India, compliance with BIS standards helps foreign manufacturers gain consumer confidence and avoid trade barriers. By understanding the applicable schemes, preparing documentation, and working with an experienced Authorized Indian Representative, exporters can ensure a smooth and efficient entry into India’s lucrative market.