BIS Certificate – who can apply is a common question among manufacturers, brand owners, and importers planning to enter the Indian market. Any entity dealing with products covered under BIS regulations can apply for a BIS Certificate in India, provided the product complies with the applicable Indian Standard (IS).

Applicants must first determine whether their product falls under the ISI Certification Scheme (license with surveillance) or the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), which mainly applies to electronics and IT products. Correct scheme identification ensures smooth approval and avoids rejection.

Eligible applicants for BIS Certification include:

·         Indian manufacturers

·         Foreign manufacturers (through an Authorized Indian Representative – AIR)

·         Brand owners (with manufacturer authorization)

·         Importers and traders (subject to BIS rules)

Once eligibility is confirmed, applicants should prepare a clear product scope covering models, variants, ratings, and safety-critical components. A complete documentation set is required, including technical drawings, specifications, BOM, safety declarations, quality system evidence, and labeling artwork referencing the correct IS.

Product testing must be conducted at a BIS-recognized laboratory experienced in the relevant category. During testing, applicants can complete application formalities, brand authorizations, and AIR nomination (for overseas manufacturers).

For products under CRS Registration, test reports and documents are submitted online to obtain a BIS Registration (R-Number). For ISI Certification, BIS conducts a factory audit, followed by ongoing surveillance and marking control requirements before granting the BIS License (CM/L Number).

After approval, strict compliance with BIS marking and packaging rules is mandatory. Maintaining records, tracking renewals, and managing product changes ensures uninterrupted compliance and market access.

A structured approach—scope identification, documentation, testing, application, and post-approval compliance—helps eligible applicants successfully obtain and maintain a BIS Certificate in India.