FMCS BIS certification
Guide for Foreign Manufacturers: Obtaining ISI/BIS Certification to Enter the Indian Market
If you are a foreign manufacturer aiming to enter the Indian market, securing a Licence for Foreign Manufacturers and obtaining ISI/BIS certification is mandatory before your products can be sold in India. This certification is critical, as the ISI mark is one of the most recognized and trusted symbols of quality among Indian consumers, significantly influencing their purchase decisions.
By securing this certification, you not only comply with Indian regulatory requirements but also enhance your product’s credibility, encouraging Indian customers to choose your brand over others.
India: A Preferred Destination for Global Manufacturers
Globalization has enabled businesses to offer their products across borders, and India remains a top choice for foreign manufacturers due to its cost-effectiveness and vast consumer base. Although some major international companies have invested in Indian manufacturing, overall investment in this sector remains limited.
If you're planning to expand your manufacturing presence in India, it’s crucial to understand the compliance requirements set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). According to BIS regulations, products must be tested, labeled, and certified before they can be marketed in India. For foreign manufacturers, this process is governed by the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).
About the FMCS Scheme
The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) allows overseas manufacturers to obtain certification under the BIS Act, 2016 and BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. Products that meet relevant Indian standards are eligible for certification under this scheme.
The ISI mark is issued to products that comply with Indian standards and are manufactured and tested as per BIS guidelines. FMCS covers a wide range of products, including electronics, IT goods, solar products, textiles, chemicals, petrochemicals, and toys (excluding items specifically notified by MeitY).
Eligibility Criteria for FMCS Certification
To qualify for the FMCS scheme, a foreign manufacturer must:
- Ensure products comply with Indian Standard Specifications (ISS)
- Operate a fully functional manufacturing facility
- Conduct product testing as per ISS or equivalent international standards
- Agree to the fee structure for testing and inspections
- Accept the licence terms and conditions outlined by BIS
Application Process for FMCS Licence
- Submit Application: Once the online application is submitted, BIS reviews it and may reach out for clarifications.
- Factory Audit: A BIS officer schedules a visit to inspect the manufacturing facility, including testing labs and quality controls. Product samples are collected for independent lab testing.
- Pay Fees: The applicant must bear the cost of testing and the official’s visit.
- Approval & Validity: Upon successful evaluation, the licence is issued with a one-year validity, renewable annually.
Documents Required for FMCS Certification
To complete the application process, the following documents are typically required:
- Factory or company registration documents
- Manufacturing process flowchart
- Details of in-house or outsourced manufacturing facilities
- On-site testing capabilities
- Quality control records
- Product testing reports aligned with BIS standards
- Acceptance of marking fee, inspection schedule, and BIS conditions
A full checklist can be obtained directly from BIS or an authorized consultant.
Key Regulations for Foreign Manufacturers
Foreign manufacturers are required to appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to act as a liaison between the company and BIS. This person must be officially designated and empowered to represent the company in legal and certification matters.
The AIR is accountable for ensuring compliance with the BIS Act, 2016, and all applicable rules. The designation must be documented, signed, and submitted on company letterhead.
Why Partner with Induce India?
Navigating BIS regulations can be complex. That’s where Induce India steps in.
We are one of India’s leading consulting firms for ISI/BIS certification and FMCS licences. Our team has helped over 200 domestic and international manufacturers obtain the necessary approvals to sell their products in India.
We offer end-to-end support, including:
- Product assessment as per BIS norms
- Guidance on document preparation
- Liaison with BIS authorities
- Post-certification assistance and renewals
Final Thoughts
Obtaining an ISI/BIS certification is a mandatory and critical step for foreign manufacturers entering the Indian market. While the process involves several technical and regulatory hurdles, working with a reliable certification partner like Induce India can streamline your entry and ensure full compliance.
Contact us today to begin your journey towards BIS certification and confidently introduce your products to the Indian market.