Introduction — The Compliance Reality Check
BIS certification isn’t just a legal checkbox — it’s your ticket to market entry. Without it, customs won’t clear imports, distributors won’t stock your products, and retailers can face penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.
Key takeaway:
If you’re a manufacturer or importer in India, understanding the ISI certification process step-by-step can save months of delay and ensure smooth market access.
What is BIS ISI Certification?
- BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) is the national body responsible for product quality and safety regulation.
- ISI (Indian Standards Institute) Mark is proof that a product complies with Indian Standard (IS) specifications.
- This applies to domestic manufacturers under Scheme-I of BIS.
- The ISI mark ensures your product meets required safety, performance, and quality benchmarks set by BIS.
Why it matters for your business:
Having an ISI Mark is like owning a verified passport — it allows your product to move freely in the Indian market, builds consumer trust, and avoids customs detentions.
Who Needs ISI Certification in India?
ISI Certification is mandatory for:
- Manufacturers producing goods under mandatory BIS standards (as per latest QCO notifications).
- Industries such as electrical appliances, cement, steel, automotive components, food-grade plastics, and more.
- Indian manufacturers supplying to government tenders or large retail chains.
Tip: Always verify if your product’s Indian Standard (IS number) appears in the latest BIS mandatory list before production.
Step-by-Step Process for BIS ISI Certification (Scheme-I)
| Step | Process | Business Impact / Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Identify applicable Indian Standard (IS) | Determine the correct IS code for your product (e.g., IS 302 for electrical appliances). | Selecting the wrong IS code leads to rejection or re-testing delays. |
| 2. Submit BIS Application | Apply online on www.bis.gov.in with all factory details, test reports, and documents. | Keep your factory CTE/CTO and quality documents ready for upload. |
| 3. Product Testing at BIS-Recognized Lab | Send product samples to a BIS-recognized laboratory for testing as per the standard. | Always use BIS-accredited labs to avoid rejection. |
| 4. Factory Inspection by BIS Officer | BIS officials conduct on-site inspection of the manufacturing facility. | Ensure production line, test equipment, and QMS are operational. |
| 5. Grant of License (GoL) | If compliant, BIS grants the ISI license and assigns a unique license number. | Once approved, you can affix the ISI Mark with your CM/L number. |
| 6. Post-Licensing Surveillance | BIS conducts periodic surveillance or sample testing. | Non-conformance can lead to suspension or cancellation. |
| 7. Renewal of License | Renewal every two years upon successful surveillance. | Apply at least 90 days before expiry. |
Documents Required for ISI Certification
- Factory registration / incorporation certificate
- PAN, GST, and address proof
- Manufacturing process flow diagram
- Product test report from BIS lab
- Quality control records and machinery list
- Layout of manufacturing premises
- Copy of CTE/CTO (Pollution Board)
Pro tip: Ensure all documents mention the same manufacturing address as in the application — mismatches are the top cause of delays.
Timeline for BIS ISI Certification
| Stage | Average Duration |
|---|---|
| Application submission & document review | 7–10 days |
| Product testing | 15–20 days |
| Factory inspection & verification | 10–15 days |
| Grant of license | 30–45 days (typical timeline) |
Note: Timelines vary based on testing load and BIS regional office.
BIS ISI Certification Fees (as per 2024–25 Schedule)
| Fee Type | Amount (₹) | Frequency / Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | ₹1,000 | One-time during submission |
| Testing charges | As per product & lab | Paid directly to BIS-recognized lab |
| License fee | ₹1,000 per product | Payable upon grant |
| Marking fee | Variable (₹0.10–₹5 per unit) | Based on product type |
| Renewal fee | ₹1,000 | Every two years |
Always verify latest fee notifications from BIS Fee Circulars.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Under the BIS Act, 2016, selling or manufacturing non-certified products is punishable with:
- Fine up to ₹2 lakh (first offence)
- Up to ₹5 lakh or imprisonment (repeat offence)
- Seizure of stock and cancellation of import clearance
Don’t risk your investment — BIS enforces strict action through customs, DGFT, and local authorities.
Benefits of ISI Certification for Manufacturers
- Legal authorization to sell regulated products
- Better market access (government tenders, exports)
- Customer trust and safety assurance
- Reduced risk of rejection or product recalls
- Competitive edge for brands with BIS-compliant products
Case Example: How Timely BIS Approval Saved a Launch
When a Pune-based appliance startup approached Green Permits in January 2025, their new mixer line was stuck at customs. Within 45 days, with proper testing and documentation, they received their ISI license — enabling them to launch nationally before Diwali.
That’s the power of proactive BIS compliance.
Renewal and Post-Certification Obligations
- Maintain quality testing records and batch traceability.
- Cooperate with BIS surveillance inspections.
- Renew the ISI license every two years with updated documents.
- Inform BIS of any change in production site, brand name, or ownership.
Why Work with Green Permits
Green Permits helps Indian manufacturers and importers manage the end-to-end BIS ISI certification process — from document preparation to audit support.
We ensure:
- Faster approvals through correct documentation
- Coordination with BIS labs
- Continuous compliance monitoring
📧 Email: wecare@greenpermits.in
Book a Consultation today and start your compliance journey right.
Conclusion
BIS ISI certification isn’t just compliance — it’s the foundation of brand credibility and market access in India.
Green Permits makes the entire process simple, transparent, and audit-ready — from testing to certification renewal.
📞 +91 78350 06182 | 📧 wecare@greenpermits.in
🌐 www.greenpermits.in
Book a Technical Call with Expert
FAQS
Usually between 30–45 days, depending on product and testing cycle.
Only Indian manufacturers can apply under ISI (Scheme-I). Foreign brands must use the FMCS route.
Yes, BIS officers conduct a physical or virtual factory audit before granting a license.
You’ll be notified to re-test or rectify non-conformities before license grant.
No — using an expired or fake ISI mark invites legal action under the BIS Act.
