When a mid-sized import company in Delhi brought in its first batch of Bluetooth speakers from China, everything seemed on track until customs paused the inspection and quietly said:
“Your product category requires BIS CRS. Without a registration number, we can’t release this consignment.”
The team had paid for manufacturing, shipping, insurance, and duty. But every day now added storage charges, and the shipment remained stuck.
All because they didn’t verify whether the product required BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) before it left the factory.
Situations like this are far more common than importers realise — and completely avoidable. This guide explains exactly how.
The BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) is a mandatory certification for specific electronics and IT equipment. Any listed product must be tested in a BIS-recognised lab and registered before it can be imported or sold in India.
For importers, CRS compliance is essential. Customs will not release non-CRS goods, even if duties are paid.
CRS becomes mandatory when the product is a finished electronic or IT device falling under the BIS notification list. Even if you are not the manufacturer, as the importer you are legally responsible for compliance.
Here are the product categories that most commonly trigger customs checks. If your shipment falls under any of these, CRS registration must be completed before import.
| Product Category | Common Imported Items | BIS CRS Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Power Banks | Fast charging banks, USB power units | IS 13252 (Part 1) |
| Smart Watches & Wearables | Bluetooth watches, fitness trackers | IS 13252 (Part 1) |
| LED Lights & Drivers | LED bulbs, tubes, panels | IS 10322 |
| Power Adapters | Mobile, IT, and universal adapters | IS 13252 (Part 1) |
| Laptops & Tablets | All computing devices | IS 13252 (Part 1) |
| Bluetooth Speakers | Portable and smart speakers | IS 616 |
| Wi-Fi Routers | CPE devices, networking equipment | IS 13252 |
| Smart TVs & Displays | LED TVs, monitors | IS 616 |
| USB Storage Devices | Flash drives, pen drives | IS 13252 |
| Electronic Toys | Battery-operated toys | IS 15644 |
Customs officers typically flag LED drivers, chargers, smart wearables, and speakers first.
Many importers face delays because CRS isn’t just an India-side requirement — the foreign manufacturer must fully cooperate. Here’s an importer-friendly breakdown.
Refer to BIS notifications and match your HS code.
If listed, CRS is mandatory before import.
They must provide:
CRS certification cannot proceed without the factory’s participation.
If the product is manufactured abroad, BIS requires a responsible Indian contact.
Samples must be tested in India.
Common delays include:
Only BIS-recognised labs can upload test results to the portal.
The importer must upload:
BIS reviews all documents and often seeks clarifications.
Approval usually takes 15–25 working days.
The BIS number must appear on:
Customs officers regularly hold shipments for these reasons:
An importer of LED drivers faced immediate detention because the carton mentioned “Model 55-SR,” while the CRS certificate was issued for “55-SL.”
Just that minor mismatch was enough to stop the shipment.
| Scenario | CRS Compliant | Not CRS Compliant |
|---|---|---|
| Customs Clearance | Smooth and predictable | Detention and ground rent |
| Market Sales | Fully legal | Risk of seizure |
| Listing Online | Allowed | Often blocked |
| Product Shelf Life | Stable | Uncertain |
| Business Risk | Very low | High financial impact |
CRS is among the most strictly enforced compliance requirements for electronics in India.
For importers, BIS CRS compliance is the difference between smooth imports and expensive, unpredictable detentions. Preparing accurate documents, aligning with your factory, and completing BIS testing before shipment ensures a stress-free import experience.
If you need support with CRS compliance, testing coordination, or manufacturer documentation, our team is here to assist.
Call: +91 78350 06182
Email: wecare@greenpermits.in
Yes, absolutely. If your product is listed under BIS CRS, you cannot import or sell it in India without registration. Customs will not clear the shipment unless the BIS CRS number is valid and matches your product.
Importers only need basic company documents, a BIS-approved test report, and an Authorized Indian Representative if the manufacturer is foreign.
You send your product to a BIS-recognized lab, the lab tests it for safety and standards, and then uploads the report for BIS approval.
Make sure the BIS certificate is issued before shipping, and your product’s model, brand, and labeling exactly match what is approved.
Customs will hold it, ask for compliance proof, or even send it back. Getting BIS CRS in advance is the only way to avoid delays.
