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Understanding BIS Certification for Electronics in India

Certified to Launch: Navigating Compliance for Consumer Electronics

BIS Certification: Gateway to the Indian Market

India’s booming electronics market offers huge opportunities, but entering it legally means complying with regulations laid out by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). BIS certification is mandatory for many types of electronic and IT products under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).

What is BIS Certification?

BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) is India’s national standards body. The BIS CRS mandates that certain products must be tested and registered before they can be sold in India.

Under this scheme, manufacturers must:

  • Get their product tested in a BIS-recognized lab
  • Apply for registration
  • Label the product with a Standard Mark and registration number

Why is it Required?

  • Mandatory for Market Entry: Products listed under BIS CRS can’t be sold in India without certification.
  • Consumer Safety: Ensures electronics meet Indian safety standards.
  • Prevents Substandard Imports: Protects the Indian market from poor-quality goods.
  • Required for E-commerce Listing: Platforms like Amazon or Flipkart require BIS numbers for compliance.

Which Products Need BIS Certification?

As of now, BIS certification is required for over 70 products, including:

  • Mobile phones
  • Power banks
  • LED lights and drivers
  • Smart watches and wearables
  • Laptops, tablets, desktops
  • UPS and inverters
  • Bluetooth speakers
  • Wi-Fi routers

The list expands regularly — Latest List Here (BIS)

BIS Certification Process (For Foreign and Indian Manufacturers)

Step 1: Product Testing in India

  • Product must be tested in a BIS-accredited lab in India.
  • Tests cover safety, electrical stability, and EMC.

Step 2: Apply for Registration

  • Submit test reports, product documents, factory details.
  • Include:
    • Brand and model info
    • Authorization letter
    • Technical datasheet
    • Factory QMS documentation

Step 3: BIS Review

  • BIS reviews documents and test reports.
  • May request clarification or corrections.

Step 4: Get Registration Number

  • If approved, BIS issues a unique registration number.
  • You can now affix the BIS Standard Mark on your product.

Label Format Example

BIS Standard Mark R-66001234

Must be permanently placed on the product and packaging.

Cost of BIS Certification

Item Approximate Cost (INR) BIS Lab Testing ₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000 Application and Registration ₹10,000 – ₹30,000 Label Review & Documentation ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 Consultant (optional) ₹20,000 – ₹50,000

Total Estimate: ₹85,000 – ₹2,50,000 per model

Processing Time

  • Testing: 2–4 weeks
  • BIS Approval: 2–3 weeks

Total Time: Typically 5–7 weeks

Important Notes

  • Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
  • Each brand + model requires a separate application.
  • Renewal is required every 2 years (can vary).

Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • Product ban in Indian market
  • Seizure by Customs
  • Fines and legal action
  • Listing removal from online stores

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