How to Apply for BIS License

Komal8 September 2025

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) license is a crucial requirement for manufacturers and importers who wish to sell their products in the Indian market. It ensures that the products meet the required quality, safety, and reliability standards as mandated by the Government of India. Obtaining a BIS license not only helps in regulatory compliance but also enhances brand credibility and consumer trust.

This article provides a detailed guide on how to apply for a BIS license, covering the eligibility, documents required, application procedure, and other important details.

Understanding BIS License

The BIS license, issued under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016, ensures that products conform to Indian Standards (IS). It is mandatory for certain products such as electrical appliances, cement, steel, food items, toys, footwear and more. BIS operates several certification schemes, including the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), ISI Mark Scheme, and Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS).

Eligibility for BIS License

Any manufacturer, whether Indian or foreign, is eligible to apply for a BIS license if their product falls under the list of items requiring certification. Importers and traders cannot directly obtain a BIS license; they must have a tie-up with the actual manufacturer. The manufacturing unit must have the necessary testing infrastructure and quality control measures in place.

Documents Required for BIS License

Applicants need to prepare and submit several documents, such as:

Application form in the prescribed format
Manufacturing unit details
Product specifications and test reports
Quality control manual
Proof of establishment of manufacturing facility
Layout plan of the factory
Authorized representative details (in case of foreign manufacturers)

Step-by-Step Application Procedure

The process of applying for a BIS license involves the following steps:

Identify Applicable Indian Standard (IS): The applicant must first determine the relevant IS code for their product.
Prepare the Application: Complete the BIS application form online through the BIS portal.
Submit Documents: Upload all required documents along with the application form.
Payment of Fees: Pay the applicable license fee, marking fee, and inspection charges.
Factory Inspection: BIS officials will visit the manufacturing unit to verify infrastructure, testing capabilities, and quality control measures.
Product Testing: Samples of the product will be taken and tested in BIS-recognized laboratories.
Grant of License: If the factory inspection and product testing are satisfactory, BIS grants the license to use the standard mark.

Timeline for BIS License Approval

The timeline for obtaining a BIS license varies depending on the certification scheme. Under the ISI Mark Scheme, it typically takes 3 to 6 months, while under the CRS scheme, approval may take 4 to 6 weeks.

Validity and Renewal of BIS License

The BIS license is generally granted for a minimum of one year and can be renewed for up to five years. Renewal requires submission of updated documents, renewal fees, and continued compliance with BIS standards.

Benefits of Obtaining BIS License

Ensures compliance with Indian regulations.
Increases product credibility and consumer trust.
Provides access to Indian markets for foreign manufacturers.
Prevents rejection of products by regulatory authorities.
Enhances competitiveness in the market.

In short, applying for a BIS license is a systematic process that requires careful preparation of documents, compliance with Indian Standards, and successful completion of inspections and testing. Manufacturers who obtain a BIS license not only meet regulatory requirements but also gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Therefore, businesses aiming to expand in India should prioritize securing this certification.