Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)

Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) is a mandatory certification program introduced by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) for electronics and IT products sold in India.

CRS applies to 49 categories of electronic and IT products, including:

• Laptops, notebooks, and tablets
• Printers, scanners, and multifunction devices
• Servers, workstations, and storage devices
• LED/LCD monitors and displays
• Set-top boxes and digital video recorders
• Power adapters and chargers for IT equipment
• Networking equipment (routers, switches, modems)
• Audio-visual products and video projectors

Products covered under CRS cannot be sold, imported, or manufactured in India without BIS registration. CRS registration confirms that the product meets mandatory Indian standards for safety, performance, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).

While both CRS and BIS certification (ISI Mark) are mandatory quality assurance programs managed by BIS, they differ significantly in scope, process, and application.

Key Differences:

CRS is simpler and faster, designed specifically for fast-moving electronics and IT products where models change frequently. BIS certification is more comprehensive and involves ongoing manufacturing oversight.

The CRS registration timeline typically ranges from 4 to 8 weeks from the date of complete documentation submission, depending on several factors.

Timeline Breakdown:

• Product Testing: 2-4 weeks (if testing is required and lab slots are available)
• Application Preparation & Submission: 1-2 weeks (compilation of documents, test reports, forms, and online submission)
• BIS Review and Processing: 2-4 weeks (scrutiny of application, query resolution, and approval)

Factors Affecting Timeline:

• Completeness of documentation — Incomplete or incorrect documents cause delays
• Test report availability — If valid test reports are already available, the process is faster
• BIS queries and clarifications — Prompt responses to BIS queries expedite approval
• Lab availability — Testing delays can occur if BIS-recognized labs have backlogs
• Product complexity — Some products require additional technical documentation or testing

Omega QMS maintains close relationships with BIS and recognized testing labs, enabling us to expedite the process and achieve faster approvals. Our average turnaround time is 4-6 weeks for straightforward cases.

The total cost of CRS registration varies based on product category, testing requirements, and the number of models being registered. The cost structure includes:

1. Government Fees (Payable to BIS):

• Application fee: Varies by product category (typically INR 2,000 to INR 5,000 per model)
• Registration fee: Payable upon approval (varies by product type)

2. Testing Charges (Payable to BIS-Recognized Labs):

• Product testing: INR 20,000 to INR 1,50,000+ per model (depending on product complexity and number of tests required)
• EMC and safety testing: May require separate tests at different labs
• Sample procurement and logistics: Cost of product samples and shipping to labs

3. Professional Consultancy Fees (Omega QMS Services):

• End-to-end CRS consultancy: Preparation, submission, follow-up, and approval (quoted based on project scope)
• Document compilation and application filing
• Coordination with BIS and labs
• Query resolution and expedited processing
• Post-registration support and renewal assistance

Estimated Total Cost Range:

For a single model, total CRS registration costs typically range from INR 50,000 to INR 2,50,000, depending on product complexity and testing requirements.

Omega QMS offers competitive, transparent pricing with no hidden costs. We provide detailed cost estimates upfront based on your specific product and requirements. Volume discounts are available for clients registering multiple models.

For a customized quote, contact us at info@globalomega.com or call +91-9810047474.

CRS registration requires a comprehensive set of documents to be submitted to BIS. The documentation varies slightly depending on whether the applicant is a domestic manufacturer, foreign manufacturer, or importer.

Mandatory Documents for CRS Registration:

• Duly filled and signed CRS application form — Online submission through BIS portal
• Test reports from BIS-recognized labs — Covering all applicable Indian Standards (IS) and technical requirements for the product
• Product technical literature — User manuals, brochures, specifications, and technical drawings
• Manufacturing authorization letter — If applicant is not the manufacturer (for importers/distributors)
• Trademark registration certificate — If the product carries a trademark or brand name
• Undertaking for compliance — Declaration that the product conforms to the relevant Indian Standards
• List of production and test equipment — Details of manufacturing and quality control equipment used
• Certificate of incorporation — For Indian companies, or business registration proof for foreign entities
• Authorized Indian representative details — Foreign manufacturers must appoint an authorized representative in India
• Power of attorney (if applicable) — If a consultant or agent is filing the application on behalf of the applicant
• Product label and marking samples — Showing how the CRS registration number will be displayed
• Bill of materials (BOM) — Component list and technical specifications

Additional Documents (Case-Specific):

• Import export code (IEC) for importers
• GST registration certificate
• Factory layout and production process flow (for domestic manufacturers)
• Quality management system certificates (ISO 9001, if available)

Omega QMS provides complete documentation support, ensuring all required documents are compiled accurately and in compliance with BIS requirements. We handle the entire process, from document collection to final submission, minimizing the risk of rejections or delays due to incomplete documentation.

Yes, foreign manufacturers can register their products under CRS. In fact, a large majority of CRS registrations are obtained by international companies (including Fortune 500 electronics and IT giants) who wish to sell their products in the Indian market.

Key Requirements for Foreign Manufacturers:

• Appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) — Foreign manufacturers must designate an authorized representative in India who will act as the local point of contact for BIS and handle all compliance and post-registration matters.
• Submit valid test reports — Products must be tested at BIS-recognized laboratories (either in India or at BIS-approved foreign labs under mutual recognition agreements, if applicable).
• Provide manufacturing authorization — If the applicant is an importer or distributor, they must provide a letter of authorization from the original manufacturer.
• Ensure product compliance — The product must meet all relevant Indian Standards (IS) for safety, performance, and EMC.

Omega QMS as Your Authorized Indian Representative:

Omega QMS acts as the authorized Indian representative for leading global brands including Dell, Lenovo, and HP. We provide comprehensive CRS services, including:

• AIR services — Acting as your official Indian representative
• Sample collection and testing coordination — Managing logistics and testing at BIS-recognized labs
• Application preparation and submission — Complete documentation and online filing
• Ongoing compliance and renewal support — Ensuring continuous market access
• Real-time status monitoring — Dedicated follow-up with BIS officials for expedited processing

Omega QMS consistently secures over 100 CRS registrations annually for global electronics and IT companies. Our single-window solution ensures that foreign manufacturers can enter the Indian market quickly and without regulatory hurdles.

For foreign manufacturers seeking CRS registration or AIR services, contact us at info@globalomega.com or call +91-9810047474.