BIS Certification Timeline

Komal6 September 2025

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification is a mandatory requirement for many products sold in the Indian market. It ensures that the product meets the prescribed quality, safety, and performance standards. One of the most common questions manufacturers and exporters have is: how long does the BIS certification process take? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of certification scheme, the product category, and the preparedness of the applicant. Below is a comprehensive overview of the BIS certification timeline.

Understanding the BIS Certification Process Timeline

The BIS certification process typically involves a series of well-defined steps. Each step has its own timeline, and delays usually occur when applicants are not fully prepared with documentation, testing, or factory readiness. Let’s go through the steps in detail.

Preparation Stage (1 – 2 weeks)

Before applying, manufacturers must identify the applicable Indian Standard (IS) for their product. At this stage, the applicant should also prepare the required documents such as product test reports from BIS recognized laboratories, factory details, quality management system records, and product specifications. A well-prepared application reduces the chances of rejection or delays.

Application Submission (1 week)

The application is filed online on the BIS portal along with all necessary documents. The accuracy and completeness of the application plays a key role in how quickly the application moves forward.

Product Testing (2 – 4 weeks)

One of the most time-consuming parts of the certification process is product testing. Products must be tested in a BIS-recognized laboratory in India. The duration depends on the product type; some products require longer testing cycles. For example, electronic items may take 3 – 4 weeks, while simpler items can be tested in 1 – 2 weeks.

BIS Evaluation and Review (2 – 3 weeks)

Once testing is complete, BIS officials review the reports, check compliance, and may ask for clarifications. This stage may involve communication between the applicant and BIS. If everything is clear and compliant, the process moves forward smoothly.

Factory Inspection (2 – 3 weeks, if applicable)

For certain certification schemes, such as the ISI Mark certification, a BIS officer may visit the manufacturing facility to inspect production processes, quality control mechanisms, and testing facilities. The scheduling of this inspection may add time, depending on the availability of BIS officials and factory readiness.

Grant of License (1 – 2 weeks)

After all verifications, BIS grants the certification license. The license is issued for a defined period (usually two years) and is subject to renewal.

Total Estimated Timeline
Simplified products (without factory inspection): **6 – 8 weeks**
Products requiring factory inspection: **10 – 12 weeks**
In rare cases where additional testing, clarifications, or compliance issues arise, the process may take longer.

Tips to Reduce BIS Certification Timeline

Prepare all required documents in advance.
Ensure the product complies with the applicable Indian Standards.
Choose a BIS-recognized laboratory with faster testing facilities.
Maintain proper communication with BIS authorities to avoid delays.
Engage a professional BIS consultant to streamline the process.

Conclusion

The BIS certification timeline varies depending on the product and certification scheme, but on average, it ranges between 6 to 12 weeks. With proper preparation and guidance, manufacturers can ensure a smoother and faster approval process. Timely certification not only ensures compliance but also helps in building consumer trust and entering the Indian market without obstacles.