Checklist for Foreign Brands Applying for BIS FMCS in 2025

A real-world story to begin with

In 2024, a European LED manufacturer was ready to ship its first batch to India. Everything looked perfect — until customs stopped the consignment because the factory’s BIS FMCS licence hadn’t been approved. The delay? Missing paperwork for their Performance Bank Guarantee.

If you’re a foreign manufacturer planning to sell products in India, here’s the complete 2025 checklist to ensure your BIS FMCS approval happens smoothly — without costly delays.

What is BIS FMCS and why it matters

The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) is operated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under Scheme I of the BIS Act.
It enables overseas manufacturers to use the ISI Mark once their product successfully meets Indian Standards (IS) and the factory passes an official BIS inspection.

In simple terms — BIS FMCS is your entry ticket to the Indian market. Without it, importers and distributors can’t legally sell your products in India.

Who Needs BIS FMCS Certification

You’ll need FMCS registration if you are:

• A foreign manufacturer producing goods that fall under the mandatory BIS certification list (Scheme I).
• A company selling under its own brand name to the Indian market.
• A producer operating from a fixed overseas factory location (each factory requires a separate licence).
• Willing to appoint an Authorised Indian Representative (AIR) who is a resident of India and serves as your official contact with BIS.

Step-by-Step Checklist for BIS FMCS Registration (2025)

Stage / Action	Official Document / Form	Prepared By	Notes & Tips
1️⃣ Identify relevant Indian Standard (IS)	—	Manufacturer	Use BIS Standards Catalogue to find the correct IS code for your product.
2️⃣ Appoint an Authorised Indian Representative (AIR)	Form VI	Manufacturer + AIR	AIR must be an Indian resident and should be legally empowered to act for the company.
3️⃣ File BIS Application	Form V	Manufacturer (submitted by AIR)	Include factory address, process details, and technical documents.
4️⃣ Submit Supporting Documents	BIS FMCS Checklist	Manufacturer	Attach quality manual, process flow, test equipment list, and calibration records.
5️⃣ Pay Application & Inspection Fees	Fee Receipt	Manufacturer / AIR	Fees vary by product and testing requirements.
6️⃣ Schedule Factory Inspection	—	BIS + Manufacturer	Prepare for audit: maintain clean layout, record logs, and test samples.
7️⃣ Product Testing	Test Report	Manufacturer / AIR	Send representative samples to a BIS-recognized lab in India.
8️⃣ Sign Agreement & Indemnity Bond	Forms IX & X	Manufacturer + AIR	Executed on Indian stamp paper; both parties must sign.
9️⃣ Submit Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG)	Form XI	Manufacturer	USD 10,000 via an RBI-approved Indian bank; valid for the licence period.
🔟 Grant of Licence	Licence Document	BIS	Once approved, your factory receives permission to use the ISI Mark in India.

Documents Required for BIS FMCS Application

Document	Purpose
Business Registration Certificate of Manufacturer	Proof of legal entity
Factory Layout & Process Flow	Shows production capability
Quality Manual / ISO 9001 Certificate	Confirms quality control system
Product Test Reports (Indian Standards)	Proof of conformity
Nomination of Authorised Indian Representative (Form VI)	Official Indian liaison
Agreement & Indemnity Bond (Forms IX & X)	Legal responsibility for compliance
Performance Bank Guarantee (Form XI)	Security against default
Power of Attorney	If the AIR is not an employee of the manufacturer
Marking Fee Payment Proof	Annual continuation of ISI marking rights

BIS FMCS Fees (Updated for 2025)

Type of Fee	Amount (Approx.)	When to Pay
Application Fee	USD 500	At submission of Form V
Testing / Inspection	Actual lab charges	During product testing
Licence Fee	₹1,000	Upon licence grant
Marking Fee (Annual)	As per BIS schedule	After licence issue
Performance Bank Guarantee	USD 10,000	Before licence grant

Tip: BIS updates its marking fee notifications annually. Check the latest fee chart before you submit your application.

Typical Timelines

• Application Processing: Around 90–120 days after all documents are received.
• Licence Validity: 1 year initially, renewable annually.
• Renewal: Apply at least 30 days before expiry with updated documents and marking fee.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incomplete applications – Missing Form VI or outdated test reports cause major delays.
2. Invalid Authorised Indian Representative – The AIR must be an Indian resident and have valid authorization.
3. Uncalibrated testing equipment – BIS inspectors will check calibration certificates during the audit.
4. PBG not submitted on time – The USD 10,000 Performance Bank Guarantee must be provided before licence issue.
5. Incorrect product details – Mismatch between test report and production sample can result in rejection.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Import or sale of uncertified products can result in product seizure and fines up to ₹2 lakh.
• BIS may cancel or suspend your licence for repeated violations.
• The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) can block imports without valid BIS FMCS registration.

Your FMCS licence isn’t just a certificate — it’s proof that your brand meets Indian safety and quality standards.

Why Partner with Green Permits

We simplify BIS compliance for foreign brands.
From preparing Form V and VI, arranging factory audits, to submitting the Performance Bank Guarantee — our team ensures your FMCS journey stays on track.

Conclusion

BIS FMCS certification is not just about compliance — it’s your brand’s assurance of quality and safety in one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.
With a clear checklist, a trusted Indian representative, and expert guidance, you can enter India confidently and without delays.

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