BIS CRS Registration

In early 2024, a Pune-based electronics startup had everything ready — prototypes, packaging, and confirmed distributors across India. Yet their first consignment was detained at customs because the products lacked BIS CRS certification.

It took over two months to test, file, and re-import samples. The delay didn’t just cost them ₹8 lakh in warehousing and logistics; it also pushed back their product launch by an entire quarter.

That experience highlights an important truth — in today’s Indian market, BIS certification isn’t optional. It’s the foundation of your product’s legal and commercial credibility.

This guide explains the complete process, costs, and timelines to help your business stay compliant and launch faster.

What Is BIS CRS Registration?

The Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) was introduced in 2012 by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in collaboration with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It falls under Scheme II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

The CRS ensures that specified electronic and IT products meet Indian safety standards before being manufactured, imported, or sold in India. Unlike the ISI mark (which applies to manufacturing quality), CRS focuses on product safety and conformity testing.

Key points:

• All products listed under MeitY’s Electronics and IT Goods Order must be registered under CRS.
• BIS registration is product- and model-specific, meaning each model number requires separate registration.
• Every product label or packaging must carry the BIS Standard Mark and registration number.

In 2025, MeitY expanded CRS to include more consumer devices such as smart door locks, wearable audio products, and IoT controllers, reflecting India’s growing electronics ecosystem.

Why BIS CRS Registration Matters for Businesses

BIS CRS registration does more than fulfill legal obligations — it directly impacts your ability to grow in India’s regulated electronics sector.

• Customs Clearance: Non-certified goods are detained, delaying shipments.
• Market Access: Only BIS-registered electronics can be sold through Indian retailers, distributors, and e-commerce platforms.
• Brand Reputation: The BIS mark builds consumer confidence in product safety.
• Global Expansion: BIS registration supports international compliance equivalence for exports to countries like Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
• Investor Confidence: Investors prefer certified brands with regulatory clearance and risk-free operations.

Without BIS CRS approval, products risk seizure, import bans, and financial penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

Who Needs BIS CRS Registration?

The BIS CRS applies to both Indian and foreign manufacturers whose products fall under notified categories.

1. Indian Manufacturers

Indian producers manufacturing IT and electronics equipment for domestic or export markets must register each product model under the applicable Indian Standard (IS).

2. Importers and Traders

Importers selling products under their own brand name are responsible for CRS compliance. Even if the product is manufactured abroad, the importer must ensure BIS registration before customs clearance.

3. Foreign Manufacturers

Foreign companies without an Indian presence must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to act on their behalf.

The AIR’s role includes:

• Managing BIS applications, sample testing, and communication
• Ensuring labeling and documentation compliance
• Responding to BIS queries or audits on behalf of the foreign applicant

4. E-commerce Sellers and Distributors

Platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, and Tata Cliq require sellers to provide valid BIS registration numbers before listing electronic and IT products.

Products Covered Under BIS CRS Scheme (as of 2025)

The CRS product list has expanded significantly since 2012. As of October 2025, more than 80 categories of electronics and IT products are included.

Category	Examples / IS Standard
Mobile phones	IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010
Laptops, tablets, notebooks	IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010
Power adapters, chargers	IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010
LED lamps, TV sets, monitors	IS 10322 / IS 616
Smart watches, Bluetooth speakers	IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010
Routers, modems, POS terminals	IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010
Lithium battery systems	IS 16046 (Part 1/2): 2018
CCTV cameras and recorders	IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010
Servers, storage devices	IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010

Newly notified (2025):

• Smart door locks
• Wi-Fi enabled lighting systems
• Digital set-top boxes with integrated storage
• Wearable audio and health-monitoring devices

These inclusions reflect India’s focus on consumer and industrial electronics safety under the updated CRS regime.

BIS CRS Registration Process in India — Step-by-Step (2025)

The BIS registration process is fully digital through the official CRS portal. The following seven steps outline the 2025 process for both domestic and foreign applicants.

Step 1: Identify Applicable Indian Standard (IS)

Each product corresponds to a specific IS code. Use the “Products Under CRS” tool on crsbis.gov.in to confirm the correct IS before testing.
Incorrect IS selection is one of the most common reasons for application rejection.

Step 2: Select a BIS-Recognized Laboratory

Products must be tested in BIS-recognized laboratories located in India.
Laboratories are categorized as Group-1 or Group-2 based on their testing scope and capacity.
Testing includes parameters such as safety, performance, and electrical integrity.

Step 3: Prepare Documentation

Key documents required include:

• Company incorporation certificate and GST
• Authorized signatory ID proof
• Detailed product specifications and models
• Test report (issued within 90 days)
• Factory address proof and QC layout
• Authorization letter or power of attorney (for AIR)
• Brand ownership proof (if applicable)

Step 4: Create an Online Account and Fill Application

Register on crsbis.gov.in under “Scheme II.” Fill in all product details, upload documents, and attach your lab test report.

Step 5: Pay BIS Application Fee

All payments are made online. Once paid, BIS reviews the application and may raise queries for clarification.

Step 6: Application Review and Registration Grant

BIS verifies test reports, factory details, and documents. If everything is in order, the BIS Registration Certificate is granted within 20 working days.

Step 7: Marking and Market Launch

The registered manufacturer must display the Standard Mark and unique registration number on the product, packaging, or nameplate.

BIS CRS Registration Fees (Indicative 2024–25)

Fee Component	Amount (INR)	Validity / Notes
Application processing	₹1,000 – ₹2,000	One-time submission
Registration fee	₹25,000 per application	Valid for 2 years
Renewal fee	₹25,000	Payable every 2 years
Test report fee	₹20,000 – ₹50,000 (approx.)	Paid directly to lab
Inclusion fee (for additional models)	₹5,000 – ₹10,000	Per new model
Additional copies / duplicates	₹1,000	Optional

Typical processing time:
20 working days for new applications and 15 days for renewals, assuming complete documentation.

BIS CRS Registration for Foreign Manufacturers

Foreign companies without a legal presence in India must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) before filing their BIS application.

The AIR must:

• Be a legally registered entity in India
• Have an authorization letter from the manufacturer
• Take legal responsibility for the product’s compliance and labeling

Responsibilities of the AIR:

1. Liaising with BIS and laboratories
2. Coordinating sample testing and retesting
3. Maintaining product records and compliance documents
4. Responding to surveillance audits and renewals

Without a valid AIR, foreign manufacturers cannot obtain BIS CRS registration.

Testing and Sample Retention Requirements

BIS mandates that all product samples undergo testing in India-based laboratories.
Testing covers electrical safety, performance, and physical durability.

Key requirements:

• Only BIS-recognized labs can issue valid test reports.
• Reports must not be older than 90 days at the time of submission.
• BIS may conduct surprise market surveillance to verify compliance.

All manufacturers and importers must maintain testing records and product traceability for at least two years.

Validity and Renewal

The BIS registration certificate remains valid for two years. Renewal must be applied for at least 30 days before expiry.

For renewal, applicants must provide:

• Updated documents and test report
• Proof of continued production or import
• Renewal fee payment receipt
• Declaration of compliance and no violation

Renewed certificates maintain the same registration number but extend the validity period by another two years.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with CRS regulations invites strict penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

Penalties include:

• Seizure of uncertified products at customs or warehouses
• Fines up to ₹2 lakh and possible imprisonment for repeated violations
• Cancellation of license and blacklisting from BIS portal
• Import/export restrictions by DGFT
• Brand reputation loss and consumer litigation

For importers and startups, a single violation can disrupt operations, leading to legal exposure and financial loss.

Benefits of BIS CRS Registration

Beyond compliance, BIS CRS certification provides measurable advantages:

• Market Authorization: Allows legal sale and distribution in India.
• Brand Value: Builds consumer trust and product credibility.
• Export Facilitation: Simplifies approvals in neighboring markets.
• Supply Chain Efficiency: Customs clearance without inspection delays.
• Quality Control: Encourages consistent safety standards across models.

For startups and SMEs, BIS registration also enhances eligibility for government procurement and “Make in India” tenders.

Documents Required (Comprehensive Checklist)

1. BIS application form (Form VI)
2. Self-declaration of conformity
3. Authorized signatory ID and address proof
4. Incorporation and GST certificate
5. Factory layout and production process flow
6. Test report from BIS-approved lab
7. Brand authorization letter (if applicable)
8. AIR appointment letter (for foreign manufacturers)
9. Product label design showing BIS mark
10. Fee payment acknowledgment

Maintaining digital copies of all submissions helps streamline renewals and audits.

BIS vs ISI Certification — The Key Differences

Parameter	BIS CRS (Scheme II)	ISI Mark (Scheme I)
Product category	Electronics & IT goods	Industrial & household goods
Testing location	BIS-recognized labs	Factory + independent labs
Factory audit	Not required	Mandatory
Validity	2 years	1 year (renewable)
Application complexity	Moderate	High
Target audience	Importers, electronics brands	Domestic manufacturers

Summary:
The CRS mark confirms product safety and adherence to Indian Standards, while ISI focuses on production quality and factory audits.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Using expired or foreign test reports
• Mismatch between product model and test report
• Missing or incorrect BIS logo on product packaging
• Submitting incomplete documentation
• Late renewal submissions

Pro tip: Create a compliance calendar that tracks BIS renewal deadlines and test report validity periods.

Green Permits can assist by reviewing your technical documents, testing protocols, and label artwork to ensure full compliance before submission.

Real-World Timeline Example (Importer Perspective)

Stage	Average Duration	Key Action
Lab testing	10–15 days	Complete product testing and report submission
Document preparation	3–5 days	Gather and verify all required documents
BIS application submission	2 days	Upload and pay fees online
Review & queries	5–7 days	Respond promptly to BIS clarifications
Registration approval	~20 working days	Certificate issued
Renewal process	15 days	Repeat with updated test report

Need Assistance with BIS CRS Registration?

Green Permits provides end-to-end support for BIS CRS registration, including:

• Product categorization and IS mapping
• Coordination with BIS-recognized laboratories
• Online application filing and fee submission
• AIR documentation for foreign manufacturers
• Renewal and surveillance assistance

We also specialize in:

• EPR Authorization (CPCB)
• ISI Mark and FMCS Certification
• Recycling Plant Setup and DPR preparation

Conclusion

BIS CRS certification is not just paperwork — it’s the foundation for building credibility, consumer confidence, and sustainable business operations in India’s regulated electronics market.

Delays in testing or incomplete documentation can cost valuable time and money. By planning early and working with compliance experts, manufacturers and importers can achieve smoother approvals and faster market entry.

If you’re launching or importing electronic products in 2025, start your BIS CRS application today and safeguard your business from unnecessary regulatory risks.

Contact:
+91 78350 06182 | wecare@greenpermits.in
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