Different Types of BIS Certification in India

Different Types of BIS Certification in India. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national body in India responsible for formulating and implementing quality standards across products and services. BIS certification assures consumers of the safety, reliability, and quality of the products they purchase. In India, BIS certification is mandatory for various products, especially those related to safety, health, and environmental protection. The absence of BIS certification can lead to adulteration, substandard goods, and consumer dissatisfaction.
BIS operates several certification schemes tailored to the needs of domestic manufacturers, importers, and foreign companies. These schemes are designed to ensure that products conform to Indian Standards (IS), and thus promote consumer safety and economic growth. In this article, we will explore in detail the different types of BIS Certification available in India, including their purpose, applicable products, processes, and key features.
Types of BIS Certification
The following are the different types of BIS Certification in India:
1. ISI Mark Certification Scheme
The ISI Mark Certification Scheme is one of the most recognized and established BIS certification schemes in India. The ISI mark stands for Indian Standards Institute, and it guarantees that a product conforms to a specific Indian Standard prescribed by BIS. This mark has been synonymous with trust, reliability, and product safety for decades.
Products Covered under ISI Certification
The ISI certification is mandatory for over 380 products in India. These include:

Cement

Electrical appliances like electric irons, switches, and immersion heaters

Packaged drinking water

Gas cylinders

Automotive tyres and tubes

Steel and structural products

These products must carry the ISI mark before being sold in the Indian market, as mandated by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs.
ISI Certification Process
The process begins with an application to BIS, along with all necessary documents, including a quality control manual and details about the manufacturing unit. A BIS inspection team then visits the manufacturing facility to assess the production process, quality assurance protocols, and product testing methods. After a satisfactory inspection, product samples are taken for laboratory testing. If the test results meet the required standards, BIS issues the ISI license.
Validity of ISI Certification
The ISI certificate is valid for one – two years and can be renewed annually. Renewal depends on the continuous compliance with BIS standards and periodic inspections by BIS officials.
2. Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)
The Compulsory Registration Scheme, or CRS, is aimed at electronic and IT products. Introduced under the "Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2012", CRS ensures the safety and quality of digital products being sold in India.
Products Covered under CRS
Some of the common products that require BIS CRS registration include:

Mobile phones

LED lighting products

Laptops and tablets

Power banks

Smartwatches

Television sets

The list of products under CRS continues to expand with the evolving digital and tech landscape.
CRS Registration Process
The process begins with the online submission of an application by the manufacturer. The product samples are then submitted to a BIS-approved testing laboratory. After the testing is complete and the results are found satisfactory, BIS grants a certificate of registration.
Key Points of CRS

CRS registration is issued only to manufacturers, not to traders or importers.

Each product model and variant must be registered separately.

Importers must ensure that foreign manufacturers have BIS registration before importing products into India.

Validity of CRS Certification
The certificate under the CRS scheme is valid for two years and can be renewed upon compliance.
3. Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS)
The Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS) enables foreign manufacturers to obtain BIS certification for their products being exported to India. This ensures that imported goods meet Indian safety and quality standards.
Products Covered under FMCS
BIS FMCS Certification applies to all products that require mandatory BIS certification under ISI or CRS schemes. These include:

Food products

Electronic and electrical appliances

Building materials

Consumer goods

FMCS Certification Process
Foreign manufacturers must apply online through the BIS portal. A critical requirement is the appointment of an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) who will act as the point of contact between BIS and the manufacturer. After the initial documentation and application, BIS officers travel overseas to inspect the manufacturing plant. Samples are collected during the visit and tested in India at BIS-approved laboratories. If the test results meet the prescribed standards, the certificate is issued.
Validity of FMCS Certification
The certification granted under FMCS is valid for one year and can be renewed annually, based on compliance with BIS guidelines.
4. ECO Mark Scheme
The ECO Mark Scheme is a unique BIS certification scheme aimed at promoting environmentally friendly products. It is granted to products that not only meet quality and safety standards but also meet criteria for environmental sustainability.
Products Eligible for ECO Mark
Products that are eligible for ECO mark certification include:

Soaps and detergents

Food items

Paper products

Packaging materials

Textiles

ECO Mark Certification Process
Manufacturers must apply to BIS and demonstrate that their product has minimal negative impact on the environment during its lifecycle. BIS assesses the product against environmental criteria, which includes aspects such as biodegradability, energy efficiency, recyclability, and reduced pollution. Once both quality and environmental standards are met, the ECO mark is granted.
Unique Features of the ECO Mark

The product must already meet ISI standards to qualify.

It is a dual certification – both quality and environmental attributes must be satisfied.

It helps promote green consumerism and sustainability.

5. Hallmarking Scheme for Precious Metals
The Hallmarking Scheme under BIS is intended to certify the purity of precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum. This certification protects consumers from fraud and ensures transparency in the jewellery trade.
Products That Need Hallmarking
The hallmarking scheme applies to:

Gold jewellery and artefacts

Silver jewellery and artefacts

Platinum ornaments

Hallmarking Certification Process
Jewellers seeking certification must apply for a BIS license. Once granted, they must send their products to a BIS-recognized hallmarking centre. The products are tested for purity and stamped with a hallmark that includes:

BIS logo

Fineness or caratage of the metal

Year of marking

Jeweller’s identification mark

Assaying centre’s identification mark

Validity of Hallmarking License
The license issued for hallmarking is valid for five years and is subject to regular audits by BIS.
6. Scheme for Indian Importers
Indian importers who wish to bring in products covered under mandatory BIS certification must obtain the necessary BIS approvals before the products are sold in the Indian market. This scheme ensures that imported products are safe and meet Indian Standards.
Applicable Products
All products covered under the ISI or CRS certification schemes are applicable under this scheme. These include:

Electrical appliances

Food products

Building materials

Consumer electronics

Certification Process for Importers
Importers must apply to BIS and submit relevant documents. Similar to FMCS, an Authorized Indian Representative must be nominated. Samples are then sent to BIS-approved labs for testing. Once approved, the certification is issued for that specific product category.
Key Features

Importers must take responsibility for compliance even if they are not the actual manufacturers.

Separate certifications are required for each product category.

7. Tatkal Scheme
The Tatkal Scheme is meant for those manufacturers or importers who need BIS certification on an urgent basis. This scheme prioritizes the application at every step, including testing, inspection, and licensing.
Features of Tatkal Scheme

It is an expedited version of the standard schemes (ISI or CRS).

It involves higher application fees due to the urgent nature.

The procedure remains the same but every step is given time-bound priority.

Validity under Tatkal Scheme
The validity of the certificate under the Tatkal Scheme is the same as that of the corresponding standard scheme. For example, if applied under the ISI scheme, the validity remains one year.
Importance of BIS Certification in India
Understanding the different types of BIS certification is essential for manufacturers, importers, and consumers. BIS certification acts as a seal of quality that builds consumer confidence. It also safeguards public health and ensures that goods are compliant with safety norms. With the rise in counterfeit and low-quality products, BIS certification becomes a crucial tool in preventing market malpractice.
Manufacturers gain a competitive advantage by obtaining BIS certification, as it not only allows them access to the Indian market but also increases their credibility among consumers. For exporters and importers, having BIS-certified products enables smooth customs clearance and market entry.
Conclusion
India's consumer market is large and diverse. The growing demand for quality and safe products makes it necessary for businesses to align with Indian standards. The different types of BIS Certification—ISI, CRS, FMCS, ECO Mark, Hallmarking, Importer’s Scheme, and Tatkal Scheme—serve distinct purposes and product categories. Whether you are a domestic manufacturer or a foreign exporter, understanding these certification schemes can help you navigate regulatory requirements more effectively.
If you need any support in obtaining any of BIS Certification then you can connect with BIS experts of Compliance Calendar LLP through email info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp at +91 9988424211.
FAQs Regarding Types of BIS Certification in India
Q1. What are the different types of BIS certification schemes in India?
Ans. There are seven main types of BIS certification schemes in India:

ISI Certification Scheme

Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)

Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS)

ECO Mark Scheme

Hallmarking Scheme for Precious Metals

BIS Certification for Indian Importers

Tatkal Scheme for expedited certification

Each of these schemes serves a specific purpose based on the product type and source.
Q2. Which products require ISI certification in India? 
Ans. Products such as cement, packaged drinking water, electrical appliances, gas cylinders, and automotive tyres require mandatory ISI certification. Over 380 products have been notified by the government for mandatory compliance with Indian Standards under this scheme.
Q3. Is BIS certification mandatory for all products in India? 
Ans. No, BIS certification is mandatory only for specific products notified by the Indian government for safety, health, and environmental reasons. However, manufacturers can also obtain voluntary BIS certification to boost consumer trust.
Q4. Can foreign manufacturers apply for BIS certification? 
Ans. Yes, foreign manufacturers can apply under the Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS). They must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR), undergo factory inspection, and get their product tested in BIS-approved Indian laboratories before receiving the certification.
Q5. What is the difference between ISI and CRS certification? 
Ans. ISI Certification is mandatory for various industrial and consumer products and is granted after factory inspection and testing.
 CRS Certification is mandatory for electronic and IT goods, and it is based on sample testing in BIS-recognized labs without a factory inspection.
Q6. What is the ECO Mark under BIS certification? 
Ans. The ECO Mark is awarded to products that meet environmental standards along with quality requirements. It applies to items like soaps, detergents, food products, and textiles that have minimal environmental impact during their lifecycle.
Q7. How long is BIS certification valid in India? 
Ans. The validity depends on the type of certification:

ISI and FMCS: 1- 2 years (renewable annually)

CRS: 2 years

Hallmarking: 5 years

Tatkal Scheme: Same as the base scheme it applies to

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national body in India responsible for formulating and implementing quality standards across products and services. BIS certification assures consumers of the safety, reliability, and quality of the products they purchase. In India, BIS certification is mandatory for various products, especially those related to safety, health, and environmental protection. The absence of BIS certification can lead to adulteration, substandard goods, and consumer dissatisfaction.

BIS operates several certification schemes tailored to the needs of domestic manufacturers, importers, and foreign companies. These schemes are designed to ensure that products conform to Indian Standards (IS), and thus promote consumer safety and economic growth. In this article, we will explore in detail the different types of BIS Certification available in India, including their purpose, applicable products, processes, and key features.

Types of BIS Certification

The following are the different types of BIS Certification in India:

1. ISI Mark Certification Scheme

The ISI Mark Certification Scheme is one of the most recognized and established BIS certification schemes in India. The ISI mark stands for Indian Standards Institute, and it guarantees that a product conforms to a specific Indian Standard prescribed by BIS. This mark has been synonymous with trust, reliability, and product safety for decades.

Products Covered under ISI Certification

The ISI certification is mandatory for over 380 products in India. These include:

Cement
Electrical appliances like electric irons, switches, and immersion heaters
Packaged drinking water
Gas cylinders
Automotive tyres and tubes
Steel and structural products

These products must carry the ISI mark before being sold in the Indian market, as mandated by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs.

ISI Certification Process

The process begins with an application to BIS, along with all necessary documents, including a quality control manual and details about the manufacturing unit. A BIS inspection team then visits the manufacturing facility to assess the production process, quality assurance protocols, and product testing methods. After a satisfactory inspection, product samples are taken for laboratory testing. If the test results meet the required standards, BIS issues the ISI license.

Validity of ISI Certification

The ISI certificate is valid for one – two years and can be renewed annually. Renewal depends on the continuous compliance with BIS standards and periodic inspections by BIS officials.

2. Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)

The Compulsory Registration Scheme, or CRS, is aimed at electronic and IT products. Introduced under the "Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2012", CRS ensures the safety and quality of digital products being sold in India.

Products Covered under CRS

Some of the common products that require BIS CRS registration include:

Mobile phones
LED lighting products
Laptops and tablets
Power banks
Smartwatches
Television sets

The list of products under CRS continues to expand with the evolving digital and tech landscape.

CRS Registration Process

The process begins with the online submission of an application by the manufacturer. The product samples are then submitted to a BIS-approved testing laboratory. After the testing is complete and the results are found satisfactory, BIS grants a certificate of registration.

Key Points of CRS

CRS registration is issued only to manufacturers, not to traders or importers.
Each product model and variant must be registered separately.
Importers must ensure that foreign manufacturers have BIS registration before importing products into India.

Validity of CRS Certification

The certificate under the CRS scheme is valid for two years and can be renewed upon compliance.

3. Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS)

The Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS) enables foreign manufacturers to obtain BIS certification for their products being exported to India. This ensures that imported goods meet Indian safety and quality standards.

Products Covered under FMCS

BIS FMCS Certification applies to all products that require mandatory BIS certification under ISI or CRS schemes. These include:

Food products
Electronic and electrical appliances
Building materials
Consumer goods

FMCS Certification Process

Foreign manufacturers must apply online through the BIS portal. A critical requirement is the appointment of an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) who will act as the point of contact between BIS and the manufacturer. After the initial documentation and application, BIS officers travel overseas to inspect the manufacturing plant. Samples are collected during the visit and tested in India at BIS-approved laboratories. If the test results meet the prescribed standards, the certificate is issued.

Validity of FMCS Certification

The certification granted under FMCS is valid for one year and can be renewed annually, based on compliance with BIS guidelines.

4. ECO Mark Scheme

The ECO Mark Scheme is a unique BIS certification scheme aimed at promoting environmentally friendly products. It is granted to products that not only meet quality and safety standards but also meet criteria for environmental sustainability.

Products Eligible for ECO Mark

Products that are eligible for ECO mark certification include:

Soaps and detergents
Food items
Paper products
Packaging materials
Textiles

ECO Mark Certification Process

Manufacturers must apply to BIS and demonstrate that their product has minimal negative impact on the environment during its lifecycle. BIS assesses the product against environmental criteria, which includes aspects such as biodegradability, energy efficiency, recyclability, and reduced pollution. Once both quality and environmental standards are met, the ECO mark is granted.

Unique Features of the ECO Mark

The product must already meet ISI standards to qualify.
It is a dual certification – both quality and environmental attributes must be satisfied.
It helps promote green consumerism and sustainability.

5. Hallmarking Scheme for Precious Metals

The Hallmarking Scheme under BIS is intended to certify the purity of precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum. This certification protects consumers from fraud and ensures transparency in the jewellery trade.

Products That Need Hallmarking

The hallmarking scheme applies to:

Gold jewellery and artefacts
Silver jewellery and artefacts
Platinum ornaments

Hallmarking Certification Process

Jewellers seeking certification must apply for a BIS license. Once granted, they must send their products to a BIS-recognized hallmarking centre. The products are tested for purity and stamped with a hallmark that includes:

BIS logo
Fineness or caratage of the metal
Year of marking
Jeweller’s identification mark
Assaying centre’s identification mark

Validity of Hallmarking License

The license issued for hallmarking is valid for five years and is subject to regular audits by BIS.

6. Scheme for Indian Importers

Indian importers who wish to bring in products covered under mandatory BIS certification must obtain the necessary BIS approvals before the products are sold in the Indian market. This scheme ensures that imported products are safe and meet Indian Standards.

Applicable Products

All products covered under the ISI or CRS certification schemes are applicable under this scheme. These include:

Electrical appliances
Food products
Building materials
Consumer electronics

Certification Process for Importers

Importers must apply to BIS and submit relevant documents. Similar to FMCS, an Authorized Indian Representative must be nominated. Samples are then sent to BIS-approved labs for testing. Once approved, the certification is issued for that specific product category.

Key Features

Importers must take responsibility for compliance even if they are not the actual manufacturers.
Separate certifications are required for each product category.

7. Tatkal Scheme

The Tatkal Scheme is meant for those manufacturers or importers who need BIS certification on an urgent basis. This scheme prioritizes the application at every step, including testing, inspection, and licensing.

Features of Tatkal Scheme

It is an expedited version of the standard schemes (ISI or CRS).
It involves higher application fees due to the urgent nature.
The procedure remains the same but every step is given time-bound priority.

Validity under Tatkal Scheme

The validity of the certificate under the Tatkal Scheme is the same as that of the corresponding standard scheme. For example, if applied under the ISI scheme, the validity remains one year.

Importance of BIS Certification in India

Understanding the different types of BIS certification is essential for manufacturers, importers, and consumers. BIS certification acts as a seal of quality that builds consumer confidence. It also safeguards public health and ensures that goods are compliant with safety norms. With the rise in counterfeit and low-quality products, BIS certification becomes a crucial tool in preventing market malpractice.

Manufacturers gain a competitive advantage by obtaining BIS certification, as it not only allows them access to the Indian market but also increases their credibility among consumers. For exporters and importers, having BIS-certified products enables smooth customs clearance and market entry.

Conclusion

India's consumer market is large and diverse. The growing demand for quality and safe products makes it necessary for businesses to align with Indian standards. The different types of BIS Certification—ISI, CRS, FMCS, ECO Mark, Hallmarking, Importer’s Scheme, and Tatkal Scheme—serve distinct purposes and product categories. Whether you are a domestic manufacturer or a foreign exporter, understanding these certification schemes can help you navigate regulatory requirements more effectively.

If you need any support in obtaining any of BIS Certification then you can connect with BIS experts of Compliance Calendar LLP through email info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp at +91 9988424211.

FAQs Regarding Types of BIS Certification in India

Q1. What are the different types of BIS certification schemes in India?

Ans. There are seven main types of BIS certification schemes in India:

ISI Certification Scheme
Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)
Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS)
ECO Mark Scheme
Hallmarking Scheme for Precious Metals
BIS Certification for Indian Importers
Tatkal Scheme for expedited certification

Each of these schemes serves a specific purpose based on the product type and source.

Q2. Which products require ISI certification in India?

Ans. Products such as cement, packaged drinking water, electrical appliances, gas cylinders, and automotive tyres require mandatory ISI certification. Over 380 products have been notified by the government for mandatory compliance with Indian Standards under this scheme.

Q3. Is BIS certification mandatory for all products in India?

Ans. No, BIS certification is mandatory only for specific products notified by the Indian government for safety, health, and environmental reasons. However, manufacturers can also obtain voluntary BIS certification to boost consumer trust.

Q4. Can foreign manufacturers apply for BIS certification?

Ans. Yes, foreign manufacturers can apply under the Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS). They must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR), undergo factory inspection, and get their product tested in BIS-approved Indian laboratories before receiving the certification.

Q5. What is the difference between ISI and CRS certification?

Ans. ISI Certification is mandatory for various industrial and consumer products and is granted after factory inspection and testing.

CRS Certification is mandatory for electronic and IT goods, and it is based on sample testing in BIS-recognized labs without a factory inspection.

Q6. What is the ECO Mark under BIS certification?

Ans. The ECO Mark is awarded to products that meet environmental standards along with quality requirements. It applies to items like soaps, detergents, food products, and textiles that have minimal environmental impact during their lifecycle.

Q7. How long is BIS certification valid in India?

Ans. The validity depends on the type of certification: