Form COS-1 and Form COS-2 for Cosmetic Import License in India

Form COS-1 and Form COS-2 for Cosmetic Import License in India. The import of cosmetics into India is a regulated activity under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Cosmetic Rules, 2020. To ensure that only safe and standard quality cosmetic products reach Indian consumers, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) introduced specific forms that must be submitted by importers or manufacturers. These forms—Form COS-1 and Form COS-2—are integral to the licensing process for the import of cosmetics. In this article, we will explain everything about Form COS-1 and Form COS-2 for Cosmetic Import License in an easy-to-understand and detailed manner.
What Are Form COS-1 and Form COS-2?
Form COS-1 is the official application form that an importer or authorized agent must submit to the CDSCO to obtain an import license for cosmetic products. It includes details related to the manufacturing site, product specifications, and testing methods. It acts as the foundation document in the approval process for cosmetic imports.
Form COS-2, on the other hand, is the license certificate that is issued by the CDSCO upon successful review and approval of the application made through Form COS-1. This certificate allows the importer to legally bring cosmetic products into the Indian market.
In short term, Form COS-1 and Form COS-2 for Cosmetic Import License are interconnected, with Form COS-1 being the request and Form COS-2 being the approval.
Purpose of Form COS-1 and Form COS-2
The purpose of Form COS-1 is to ensure that all essential details about the cosmetic product, its manufacturing, testing, and quality compliance are properly documented and submitted to CDSCO for review. It helps the regulator assess the safety and standard of the cosmetic products that are proposed to be imported into India.
Form COS-2 serves as legal proof that the imported cosmetics meet the safety, packaging, and labelling standards of the Indian regulatory framework. It permits the importer or manufacturer to begin lawful import operations in India.
Regulatory Framework Behind Form COS-1 and COS-2
The authority governing the cosmetic import license is the Central Licensing Authority (CLA) under the CDSCO, functioning as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Cosmetic Rules, 2020. These rules are strictly enforced to safeguard public health and ensure compliance with quality standards for cosmetics.
Who Can Apply for Form COS-1 and Form COS-2?
The eligibility to apply for Form COS-1 and Form COS-2 for Cosmetic Import License is not limited to manufacturers only. The following categories of individuals or entities are allowed to apply:

Manufacturers located outside India intending to export cosmetic products into India.

Importers who are appointed by foreign manufacturers to handle their imports in India.

Authorized agents who hold a letter of authorization from the manufacturer or importer to apply on their behalf.

Individuals or businesses planning to start a cosmetic import venture in India.

In all cases, the applicant must be registered on the SUGAM Portal, which is the CDSCO’s online licensing and CDSCO registration platform.
Documents Required for Form COS-1 Application
While applying through Form COS-1, the applicant must prepare a comprehensive list of documents to satisfy the regulatory conditions. The following are the essential documents that must be submitted along with the application:

Covering Letter detailing the purpose of application and index of enclosed documents.

Manufacturer’s Authorization Certificate, allowing the applicant to import and market the cosmetic products in India.

Schedule D (Part I) duly filled with manufacturing information as required under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules.

List of Ingredients with exact weight and quantity used in the formulation of the product.

Product Specification and Testing Methodology, including safety and performance tests.

Manufacturing License of the manufacturer. If unavailable, an undertaking must be obtained from the country of export regarding regulatory compliance.

Free Sale Certificate issued by the national health authority of the exporting country.

Non-Animal Testing Declaration stating that the product has not been tested on animals.

No Hexachlorophene Declaration confirming the absence of harmful ingredients like hexachlorophene in the product.

Fee Payment Receipt as proof of payment of regulatory fees.

All documents must be scanned and uploaded in PDF format on the SUGAM Portal for verification.
How to Get a COS-1 Registration Certificate?
To obtain the registration certificate under Form COS-1, the applicant must follow a well-defined process as prescribed by CDSCO:

Fill out the COS-1 Application Form with all relevant details:

Manufacturing site information

Product ingredients

Packaging and labelling details

Shelf life and storage information

Upload all supporting documents listed above.

Pay the prescribed fee using the available payment gateway or challan.

Submit the application and wait for regulatory review.

Once submitted, the application is reviewed for completeness and compliance. If any discrepancy is found, the applicant will be required to furnish additional documents or clarifications.
How to Get a COS-2 Registration Certificate?
The Form COS-2 certificate is granted only after successful review and verification of all documents submitted through Form COS-1. Here’s the process for getting COS-2:

COS-1 application is scrutinized by CDSCO authorities.

Upon satisfaction, the CDSCO issues Form COS-2, which is the official license to import cosmetic products into India.

The entire process may take up to 180 days depending on the volume of applications and completeness of the documentation.

Once issued, the Form COS-2 certificate remains valid for 5 years from the date of issuance.

Online Procedure for Filing COS-1 for Cosmetic Import License
The following steps explain how to fill and file Form COS-1 on the SUGAM Portal:

Step 1: Visit the SUGAM Portal and create a new account or log in.

Step 2: Select the “Import License for Cosmetics” category and choose Form COS-1.

Step 3: Fill in the required information including applicant details, manufacturer details, and product details.

Step 4: Upload the documents as per the list provided.

Step 5: Submit the application and pay the fees.

Step 6: Wait for review and respond promptly to any queries raised by the CDSCO.

Step 7: After review, the COS-2 Import License Certificate will be issued.

Timeline for Issuance of COS-2 Certificate
The CDSCO follows a timeline of 180 days to process the application for Form COS-1 and Form COS-2 for Cosmetic Import License. This timeline includes verification of documents, communication with applicants (if needed), and the final decision on the grant of the license. If all documents are correct and no further clarification is required, the license may be issued before 180 days. However, in the case of incomplete or non-compliant documentation, the timeline may be extended.
Validity of COS-2 Certificate
Once the COS-2 Import License is issued by the CDSCO, it is valid for a period of five years from the date of issue. The importer or manufacturer can continue to import the approved cosmetic products into India during this period without requiring a fresh application. However, the license must be renewed before expiry to avoid regulatory issues or interruptions in the import process.
Conclusion
Complying with the regulatory process for cosmetic imports in India is crucial for businesses intending to enter the Indian beauty and personal care market. The Form COS-1 and Form COS-2 for Cosmetic Import License ensure that only high-quality, tested, and safe cosmetic products are allowed into the country. Form COS-1 acts as the application form through which all essential information and documents are submitted, while Form COS-2 is the final certificate that authorizes the import of cosmetics. By following the guidelines, submitting accurate documents, and complying with the Cosmetic Rules, importers and manufacturers can obtain the license smoothly.
In case you are facing any issue related to cosmetic import and export feel free to contact us at +91 9988424211 or Email info@ccoffice.in  
FAQs
Q1. What is the purpose of Form COS-1 in cosmetic import licensing? 
Ans. Form COS-1 serves as the official application submitted to CDSCO by importers or authorized agents for obtaining a cosmetic import license. It contains detailed information about the product, manufacturing process, packaging, ingredients, and compliance declarations. It is the first step in the licensing process for bringing cosmetic products into the Indian market.
Q2. What is Form COS-2 and when is it issued? 
Ans. Form COS-2 is the cosmetic import license certificate issued by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) after reviewing and approving the Form COS-1 application. It permits the legal import of cosmetic products into India and is valid for five years from the date of issuance.
Q3. Who is eligible to apply for Form COS-1 and COS-2? 
Ans. Manufacturers located outside India, Indian importers, or their authorized agents can apply for Form COS-1 and COS-2. Even individuals or businesses starting a cosmetic import business in India can apply, provided they register on the SUGAM Portal and submit all required documents.
Q4. What is the processing time for obtaining a COS-2 license? 
Ans. As per the Cosmetic Rules, 2020, the Central Licensing Authority (CDSCO) takes up to 180 days to process and issue the COS-2 certificate after the submission of the COS-1 application. The timeline may be extended if the submitted documents are incomplete or require clarification.
Q5. What documents are required for Form COS-1 submission? 
Ans. Some key documents include a covering letter, manufacturing authorization, Schedule D Part I details, ingredient list, product testing methods, manufacturing license or undertaking, Free Sale Certificate, Non-Animal Testing Declaration, No Hexachlorophene Declaration, and the fee payment receipt.
Q6. How can I check the status of my COS-1 application? 
Ans. You can check the application status of your Form COS-1 submission by logging into the SUGAM Portal using your registered credentials. Under the “Submitted Applications” section, the current stage and any communication from CDSCO will be visible.
Q7. What are the applicable government fees for cosmetic import registration? 
Ans. The applicant must pay:

USD 1,000 per product category

USD 50 for each variant

USD 1,000 for each additional product category

These fees are submitted with Form COS-1, and the payment receipt must be uploaded during the application process.
Q8. Is the COS-2 certificate renewable after five years? 
Ans. Yes, the COS-2 certificate is valid for five years and must be renewed before its expiry. The applicant must re-apply through the SUGAM Portal following the same procedure as the original application to ensure uninterrupted import operations.

The import of cosmetics into India is a regulated activity under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Cosmetic Rules, 2020. To ensure that only safe and standard quality cosmetic products reach Indian consumers, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) introduced specific forms that must be submitted by importers or manufacturers. These forms—Form COS-1 and Form COS-2—are integral to the licensing process for the import of cosmetics. In this article, we will explain everything about Form COS-1 and Form COS-2 for Cosmetic Import License in an easy-to-understand and detailed manner.

What Are Form COS-1 and Form COS-2?

Form COS-1 is the official application form that an importer or authorized agent must submit to the CDSCO to obtain an import license for cosmetic products. It includes details related to the manufacturing site, product specifications, and testing methods. It acts as the foundation document in the approval process for cosmetic imports.

Form COS-2, on the other hand, is the license certificate that is issued by the CDSCO upon successful review and approval of the application made through Form COS-1. This certificate allows the importer to legally bring cosmetic products into the Indian market.

In short term, Form COS-1 and Form COS-2 for Cosmetic Import License are interconnected, with Form COS-1 being the request and Form COS-2 being the approval.

Purpose of Form COS-1 and Form COS-2

The purpose of Form COS-1 is to ensure that all essential details about the cosmetic product, its manufacturing, testing, and quality compliance are properly documented and submitted to CDSCO for review. It helps the regulator assess the safety and standard of the cosmetic products that are proposed to be imported into India.

Form COS-2 serves as legal proof that the imported cosmetics meet the safety, packaging, and labelling standards of the Indian regulatory framework. It permits the importer or manufacturer to begin lawful import operations in India.

Regulatory Framework Behind Form COS-1 and COS-2

The authority governing the cosmetic import license is the Central Licensing Authority (CLA) under the CDSCO, functioning as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Cosmetic Rules, 2020. These rules are strictly enforced to safeguard public health and ensure compliance with quality standards for cosmetics.

Who Can Apply for Form COS-1 and Form COS-2?

The eligibility to apply for Form COS-1 and Form COS-2 for Cosmetic Import License is not limited to manufacturers only. The following categories of individuals or entities are allowed to apply:

Manufacturers located outside India intending to export cosmetic products into India.
Importers who are appointed by foreign manufacturers to handle their imports in India.
Authorized agents who hold a letter of authorization from the manufacturer or importer to apply on their behalf.
Individuals or businesses planning to start a cosmetic import venture in India.

In all cases, the applicant must be registered on the SUGAM Portal, which is the CDSCO’s online licensing and CDSCO registration platform.

Documents Required for Form COS-1 Application

While applying through Form COS-1, the applicant must prepare a comprehensive list of documents to satisfy the regulatory conditions. The following are the essential documents that must be submitted along with the application:

Covering Letter detailing the purpose of application and index of enclosed documents.
Manufacturer’s Authorization Certificate, allowing the applicant to import and market the cosmetic products in India.
Schedule D (Part I) duly filled with manufacturing information as required under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules.
List of Ingredients with exact weight and quantity used in the formulation of the product.
Product Specification and Testing Methodology, including safety and performance tests.
Manufacturing License of the manufacturer. If unavailable, an undertaking must be obtained from the country of export regarding regulatory compliance.
Free Sale Certificate issued by the national health authority of the exporting country.
Non-Animal Testing Declaration stating that the product has not been tested on animals.
No Hexachlorophene Declaration confirming the absence of harmful ingredients like hexachlorophene in the product.
Fee Payment Receipt as proof of payment of regulatory fees.

All documents must be scanned and uploaded in PDF format on the SUGAM Portal for verification.

How to Get a COS-1 Registration Certificate?

To obtain the registration certificate under Form COS-1, the applicant must follow a well-defined process as prescribed by CDSCO:

Register on the SUGAM Portal as an Importer or Manufacturer.
Fill out the COS-1 Application Form with all relevant details:

Manufacturing site information
Product ingredients
Packaging and labelling details
Shelf life and storage information

Upload all supporting documents listed above.
Pay the prescribed fee using the available payment gateway or challan.
Submit the application and wait for regulatory review.

Once submitted, the application is reviewed for completeness and compliance. If any discrepancy is found, the applicant will be required to furnish additional documents or clarifications.

How to Get a COS-2 Registration Certificate?

The Form COS-2 certificate is granted only after successful review and verification of all documents submitted through Form COS-1. Here’s the process for getting COS-2:

COS-1 application is scrutinized by CDSCO authorities.
Upon satisfaction, the CDSCO issues Form COS-2, which is the official license to import cosmetic products into India.
The entire process may take up to 180 days depending on the volume of applications and completeness of the documentation.
Once issued, the Form COS-2 certificate remains valid for 5 years from the date of issuance.

Online Procedure for Filing COS-1 for Cosmetic Import License

The following steps explain how to fill and file Form COS-1 on the SUGAM Portal:

Step 1: Visit the SUGAM Portal and create a new account or log in.
Step 2: Select the “Import License for Cosmetics” category and choose Form COS-1.
Step 3: Fill in the required information including applicant details, manufacturer details, and product details.
Step 4: Upload the documents as per the list provided.
Step 5: Submit the application and pay the fees.
Step 6: Wait for review and respond promptly to any queries raised by the CDSCO.
Step 7: After review, the COS-2 Import License Certificate will be issued.

Timeline for Issuance of COS-2 Certificate

The CDSCO follows a timeline of 180 days to process the application for Form COS-1 and Form COS-2 for Cosmetic Import License. This timeline includes verification of documents, communication with applicants (if needed), and the final decision on the grant of the license. If all documents are correct and no further clarification is required, the license may be issued before 180 days. However, in the case of incomplete or non-compliant documentation, the timeline may be extended.

Validity of COS-2 Certificate

Once the COS-2 Import License is issued by the CDSCO, it is valid for a period of five years from the date of issue. The importer or manufacturer can continue to import the approved cosmetic products into India during this period without requiring a fresh application. However, the license must be renewed before expiry to avoid regulatory issues or interruptions in the import process.

Conclusion

Complying with the regulatory process for cosmetic imports in India is crucial for businesses intending to enter the Indian beauty and personal care market. The Form COS-1 and Form COS-2 for Cosmetic Import License ensure that only high-quality, tested, and safe cosmetic products are allowed into the country. Form COS-1 acts as the application form through which all essential information and documents are submitted, while Form COS-2 is the final certificate that authorizes the import of cosmetics. By following the guidelines, submitting accurate documents, and complying with the Cosmetic Rules, importers and manufacturers can obtain the license smoothly.

In case you are facing any issue related to cosmetic import and export feel free to contact us at +91 9988424211 or Email info@ccoffice.in

FAQs

Q1. What is the purpose of Form COS-1 in cosmetic import licensing?

Ans. Form COS-1 serves as the official application submitted to CDSCO by importers or authorized agents for obtaining a cosmetic import license. It contains detailed information about the product, manufacturing process, packaging, ingredients, and compliance declarations. It is the first step in the licensing process for bringing cosmetic products into the Indian market.

Q2. What is Form COS-2 and when is it issued?

Ans. Form COS-2 is the cosmetic import license certificate issued by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) after reviewing and approving the Form COS-1 application. It permits the legal import of cosmetic products into India and is valid for five years from the date of issuance.

Q3. Who is eligible to apply for Form COS-1 and COS-2?

Ans. Manufacturers located outside India, Indian importers, or their authorized agents can apply for Form COS-1 and COS-2. Even individuals or businesses starting a cosmetic import business in India can apply, provided they register on the SUGAM Portal and submit all required documents.

Q4. What is the processing time for obtaining a COS-2 license?

Ans. As per the Cosmetic Rules, 2020, the Central Licensing Authority (CDSCO) takes up to 180 days to process and issue the COS-2 certificate after the submission of the COS-1 application. The timeline may be extended if the submitted documents are incomplete or require clarification.

Q5. What documents are required for Form COS-1 submission?

Ans. Some key documents include a covering letter, manufacturing authorization, Schedule D Part I details, ingredient list, product testing methods, manufacturing license or undertaking, Free Sale Certificate, Non-Animal Testing Declaration, No Hexachlorophene Declaration, and the fee payment receipt.

Q6. How can I check the status of my COS-1 application?

Ans. You can check the application status of your Form COS-1 submission by logging into the SUGAM Portal using your registered credentials. Under the “Submitted Applications” section, the current stage and any communication from CDSCO will be visible.

Q7. What are the applicable government fees for cosmetic import registration?

Ans. The applicant must pay:

USD 1,000 per product category
USD 50 for each variant
USD 1,000 for each additional product category

These fees are submitted with Form COS-1, and the payment receipt must be uploaded during the application process.

Q8. Is the COS-2 certificate renewable after five years?

Ans. Yes, the COS-2 certificate is valid for five years and must be renewed before its expiry. The applicant must re-apply through the SUGAM Portal following the same procedure as the original application to ensure uninterrupted import operations.