BIS Certification & BIS Import License in India: A Complete Guide

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is Indias national standards body responsible for formulating and enforcing quality, safety, and performance standards for products sold in the Indian market. BIS operates under the BIS Act and ensures that goods available to consumers meet established benchmarks related to safety, reliability, and overall quality.

For manufacturers, exporters, and importers, understanding BIS Certification and the BIS Import License is essential. These requirements play a key role in determining whether a product can be legally manufactured, imported, distributed, or sold in India.

What Is BIS Certification?

BIS Certification is a conformity assessment process through which BIS verifies that a product complies with the relevant Indian Standard (IS). Once certified, the manufacturer is granted a BIS license and permitted to use the BIS Standard Mark, commonly known as the ISI Mark, on the approved product.

This certification assures consumers and regulators that the product meets Indian standards for safety, quality, and performance. BIS certification applies to a wide range of products, including electronics, household appliances, industrial goods, steel products, toys, chemicals, and construction materials.

Depending on the product category, BIS certification may be voluntary or mandatory. However, for products notified under government Quality Control Orders, certification is compulsory before manufacture, sale, or import into India.

Importance of BIS Certification for Imported Products

BIS certification is particularly important for imported goods. The Indian government has made BIS compliance mandatory for many products that may impact public health, safety, or the environment. If a product falls under mandatory certification, it cannot be imported into India without a valid BIS license.

Imported goods that do not comply with BIS requirements may be stopped at customs, rejected for clearance, confiscated, or ordered to be returned or destroyed. Such actions can result in financial loss, supply chain disruption, and reputational damage for importers.

Therefore, BIS certification is not just a quality labelit is a legal requirement for many imported products entering the Indian market.

What Is a BIS Import License?

A BIS Import License refers to the approval issued by BIS that allows certified products to be imported into India. This license confirms that the imported goods comply with the applicable Indian Standards and have undergone the necessary testing and evaluation.

In practice, when a product covered under mandatory BIS certification is imported, Indian customs authorities require proof of BIS compliance. A valid BIS license acts as this proof and allows the shipment to clear customs without regulatory objections.

It is important to understand that a BIS import license is different from an Import-Export Code (IEC). While the IEC allows businesses to conduct import-export activities in general, the BIS import license specifically addresses product quality and safety compliance.

Who Needs a BIS Import License?

A BIS import license is required for:

• Importers dealing with products notified under mandatory BIS certification

• Foreign manufacturers exporting regulated products to India

• Indian distributors and sellers handling imported goods that require BIS compliance

Importers themselves cannot obtain a BIS license unless they are also the manufacturer. The BIS license must be held by the actual manufacturer of the product. For foreign manufacturers, BIS certification must be obtained before the product can be imported and sold in India.

How BIS Certification for Import Works

The process of obtaining BIS certification for import generally involves the following steps:

1. Identification of Applicable Standard
The manufacturer or importer determines whether the product falls under mandatory BIS certification and identifies the relevant Indian Standard.

2. Application Submission
The manufacturer submits an application along with technical documents, product details, and required fees to BIS.

3. Product Testing
Product samples are tested in approved laboratories to verify conformity with Indian Standards.

4. Factory Inspection
For certain products, BIS may inspect the manufacturing facility to assess quality control systems, production capability, and compliance procedures.

5. Grant of License
Once all requirements are satisfied, BIS grants the certification license, allowing the product to be imported into India legally.

For foreign manufacturers, appointing an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) is mandatory. The AIR serves as the local contact point for BIS and ensures ongoing compliance.

Validity and Renewal of BIS License

A BIS license is issued for a fixed validity period and must be renewed regularly. During renewal, BIS may review compliance records, conduct surveillance audits, or request additional testing. Continuous compliance with Indian Standards is necessary to retain certification.

Failure to comply with BIS requirements can lead to suspension or cancellation of the license, which may affect the importers ability to sell the product in India.

Benefits of BIS Certification and Import License

Obtaining BIS certification and an import license offers several advantages:

• Legal Compliance: Ensures adherence to Indian laws and avoids customs issues

• Market Access: Enables lawful entry and sale of products in India

• Consumer Trust: Builds confidence through the BIS Standard Mark

• Brand Credibility: Demonstrates commitment to quality and safety

• Reduced Risk: Minimizes chances of shipment delays, penalties, or rejection

Conclusion

BIS Certification and the BIS Import License are fundamental requirements for regulated products entering the Indian market. They ensure that imported and domestically manufactured goods meet established Indian standards for safety, quality, and performance. For importers and foreign manufacturers, obtaining BIS certification is not merely a regulatory formalityit is a critical step toward successful market entry and long-term business growth in India.

By complying with BIS requirements, businesses can operate with confidence, protect consumers, and build a strong reputation in one of the worlds fastest-growing markets.