When an Indian electronics importer in Noida faced a two-month customs delay because their BIS CRS registration wasn’t approved in time, it cost them lakhs in demurrage and lost orders. The paperwork delay wasn’t due to product failure — it was because their documentation wasn’t submitted correctly.
Such cases are becoming common as the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) tightens enforcement of the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).
This guide explains the actual CRS BIS registration fees, processing timelines, and required documents based on verified BIS and CRSBIS sources — helping you plan compliance the right way.
What Is BIS CRS Registration?
The BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) ensures that certain electronic and IT products sold in India meet defined Indian safety standards.
Manufacturers and importers must obtain BIS CRS registration before launching or importing covered products into the Indian market.
Under the scheme, both domestic and foreign manufacturers must register their models with BIS through the official CRSBIS portal before sale or distribution.
| Entity Type | Requirement | Authority | Mode |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian manufacturer | Must obtain BIS CRS registration before market entry | BIS (Central or regional office) | Online + hard copy |
| Foreign manufacturer | Must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) | BIS | Online through AIR |
Think of BIS CRS as your product’s passport for Indian retail and import clearance.
Products Covered Under CRS (2025 Update)
As of 2025, over 79 categories of electronic and IT products are listed under CRS, including:
- Smartwatches and wearable devices
- Mobile phones and tablets
- Power banks
- LED lights and control gear
- Laptops, notebooks, and PCs
- Printers, scanners, and set-top boxes
- Wireless keyboards, routers, and storage drives
BIS regularly issues new notifications adding or modifying product categories. Manufacturers should always verify whether their product is listed before production or import.
BIS CRS Registration Process (Step-by-Step)
The process follows a structured five-stage path under the CRSBIS system.
| Step | Description | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Product Testing | Testing at a BIS-recognized laboratory; only accredited labs are accepted. | 10–15 days |
| 2. Online Application | Create login at crsbis.in, upload test reports and documents, and pay fees. | 1–2 days |
| 3. Hard Copy Submission | Submit signed application and supporting documents to BIS within 15 days. | – |
| 4. BIS Scrutiny | BIS reviews reports and documents; may raise queries for correction. | 10–20 working days |
| 5. Grant of Registration | After verification, BIS issues a Registration Number for that model. | 30–45 working days (realistic) |
In total, the CRS registration process takes about 45–60 days in real-world conditions, depending on the applicant’s document readiness and laboratory lead time.
BIS CRS Fee Structure (2025)
BIS has prescribed fixed fees under the CRS scheme. Below is the updated official fee schedule for 2025 (based on CRSBIS data).
| Fee Type | Amount (INR) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | 1,000 | Per product |
| Processing Fee | 25,000 | Includes one test report |
| Inclusion Fee | 15,000 | For each new model under same series (includes one test) |
| Additional Test Fee | 10,000 | For each extra test report |
| Renewal Fee | 25,000 | Payable every 2 years |
| Late Submission Penalty | 5,000 (approx.) | If hard copy reaches BIS after 15 days |
Foreign manufacturers should also account for testing logistics and courier charges, typically adding ₹10,000–₹20,000 per sample.
When budgeting for CRS certification, a single product with one test report may cost around ₹30,000–₹35,000 overall. Complex models or foreign applications may reach ₹50,000 or more including ancillary costs.
Document Checklist for BIS CRS Registration
Applicants must upload and courier both digital and physical documents to BIS. Based on official BIS guidance and current industry practice, the following checklist applies for 2025.
| Document | Purpose | Frequent Mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Test Report (from BIS lab) | Proof of conformity with BIS standard | Using a report older than 90 days |
| Business License / Incorporation Certificate | Establishes manufacturer’s legal entity | Mismatch with GST or address |
| Brand Authorization Letter | Required if applicant is not brand owner | Missing signature or seal |
| Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) Affidavit | For foreign manufacturers | Wrong stamp paper value or notarization |
| Manufacturing Address Proof | Confirms factory location | Using corporate HQ address |
| PCB Layout and Circuit Schematic | For product design verification | Missing version or labeling |
| Product Label / Marking Sample | Confirms labeling compliance | Non-matching artwork vs. tested unit |
| Declaration of Conformity | Applicant’s statement of product compliance | Missing model number reference |
| Undertaking Letter | Affirms authenticity of documents | Unsigned or missing company seal |
Each document must match details in the online portal. Even a small inconsistency can lead to rejection or delay.
Timelines: Ideal vs Realistic
While some consultants claim a 3- to 4-week approval, practical experience suggests 6 to 8 weeks is realistic once all tests and corrections are considered.
| Stage | Ideal Duration | Practical Duration (With Queries) |
|---|---|---|
| Product Testing | 10–15 days | 15–25 days |
| Document Compilation | 5–7 days | 7–10 days |
| BIS Scrutiny | 15–20 days | 25–35 days |
| Total | 30–35 days | 45–60 days |
Delays typically occur when:
- Test reports are older than 90 days.
- Hard copies are couriered late.
- Label artwork or product photos mismatch the sample.
- Queries from BIS are not addressed promptly.
Foreign applicants should plan for an additional 1–2 weeks for coordination with their Authorized Indian Representative.
Renewal, Inclusion, and Change of Model
Renewal
BIS CRS registration remains valid for two years. Renewal should be filed 60 days before expiry. The renewal fee is ₹25,000 per application.
Inclusion
When a manufacturer introduces a new model within the same product family, an inclusion application is filed. The inclusion fee is ₹15,000 (includes one test). Each additional test report costs ₹10,000.
Modification or Change of Details
If the applicant changes address, label, or company details, a modification application is required with supporting documentation. Processing takes about 10–15 working days.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Most registration delays stem from preventable administrative issues rather than product failure. Below are the most frequent mistakes observed in BIS CRS filings.
- Missing Hard Copy Submission – BIS requires that the signed application and all enclosures reach within 15 days of online submission.
- Expired Test Reports – Reports older than 90 days are invalid and must be reissued by the lab.
- Incorrect Label Artwork – Label sample submitted to BIS must exactly match product packaging.
- Improper AIR Affidavit – Foreign applicants must ensure correct notarization and stamp value on affidavits.
- Incomplete GST or Address Information – Discrepancies between GST certificate and manufacturing address lead to rejection.
- Unattended Queries – BIS may send digital checklists requesting clarification. Late response can reset processing time.
According to industry data, about 40 percent of BIS CRS rejections are due to document mismatches rather than technical non-conformity. Maintaining consistency across all uploaded files is critical.
Penalties and Business Risks of Non-Compliance
Selling or importing electronic products without BIS CRS registration is a violation of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. The consequences can be serious:
- Product Seizure and Import Detention: Customs may block goods at port for non-compliance.
- Financial Penalties: Up to ₹2 lakh per offence for unregistered goods.
- Export and Import Restrictions: DGFT may suspend or cancel import licenses for non-registered entities.
- Reputational Damage: Major e-commerce platforms delist unregistered models.
- Operational Delays: Each non-compliant batch requires new testing and re-registration.
Timely registration prevents costly market interruptions and ensures smooth customs clearance.
Why CRS Compliance Matters for Business
BIS CRS certification is more than a legal formality. It demonstrates product reliability and builds confidence among distributors, retailers, and end consumers.
For importers, it ensures that products clear Indian customs without detention.
For manufacturers, it enables brand expansion into organized retail chains and government procurement contracts that mandate BIS-registered products.
In short, BIS compliance equals market access.
FAQS
It’s a mandatory BIS certification for electronic and IT products sold in India, confirming they meet Indian safety standards through testing in approved labs.
Usually 45–60 days, including 10–15 days for lab testing and 30–45 working days for BIS review and approval.
₹1,000 (application) + ₹25,000 (processing) + ₹15,000 (inclusion, if any). Renewal every two years costs ₹25,000.
Test report, company registration, GST, brand authorization, AIR affidavit (for foreign brands), manufacturing address proof, label artwork, and declaration.
No. They must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India to submit and manage the application.
How Green Permits Can Help
Green Permits Consulting assists manufacturers and importers through the complete BIS CRS process — from testing coordination to final approval.
Our experts handle document preparation, query management, and liaison with BIS authorities, minimizing delays and rework.
Whether you are an Indian startup launching an electronic product or a foreign brand entering the Indian market, our team ensures your registration is accurate, compliant, and on time.
Contact:
Green Permits Consulting Pvt. Ltd.
Phone: +91 78350 06182
Email: wecare@greenpermits.in
Website: www.greenpermits.in
