What is the BIS FMCS Scheme?
The BIS FMCS Scheme refers to the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme, operated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This scheme allows foreign manufacturers to obtain an ISI mark license for products that fall under mandatory certification as per relevant Indian Standards. The FMCS scheme ensures that imported products meet the same safety, quality, and performance standards as those manufactured within India. Additionally, the scheme is also open for voluntary certification, allowing foreign manufacturers to obtain BIS certification for products even if they are not currently under mandatory regulation, thereby demonstrating compliance with Indian standards and enhancing market credibility.
Whether BIS License is mandatory to import product in India?
Generally, the certification scheme of BIS is voluntary in nature, however under the BIS Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), a BIS license is mandatory for importing products that are covered under the mandatory ISI mark certification. Foreign manufacturers of such products must obtain the BIS license through FMCS before exporting to India. Without this license, the import of these products is not permitted, and such goods may be rejected or held by Indian customs authorities.
For which types of products is a BIS licence mandatory under the FMCS Scheme?
Under the BIS FMCS Scheme, a BIS licence is mandatory for foreign manufacturers intending to export products to India that are covered under mandatory ISI mark certification. These include products notified under various Quality Control Orders (QCOs) issued by the Government of India. Typical categories include cement, steel, electrical appliances, automotive components, packaged drinking water, pressure cookers, and safety equipment. These products must conform to applicable Indian Standards (IS) and bear the ISI mark before being imported into India. Without a valid BIS licence, the import, sale, or distribution of such products in India is prohibited.
Who is required to obtain a BIS license under the FMCS Scheme?
Foreign manufacturers who want to export products to India that are covered under mandatory BIS certification (ISI mark) must get a BIS license under the FMCS Scheme. These products are listed by the Indian government under Quality Control Orders. The manufacturer must also appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to help with the certification process. Without this license, these products cannot be legally imported or sold in India.
Step-by-Step Process to Register a Product under the BIS FMCS Scheme
Step A: Check Applicability
Confirm if your product is covered under mandatory BIS certification (ISI mark).
Step B: Submit Application
Submit the application to the BIS office at Delhi.
Step C: Appoint AIR (for Foreign Manufacturers)
Nominate an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India.
Step D: Factory Inspection
BIS officials will visit the foreign manufacturing unit for inspection.
Step E: Sample Testing
Product samples are tested in a BIS-approved laboratory.
Step F: Grant of Licence
If everything is in order, BIS issues the ISI licence.
Step G: Marking
Start affixing the ISI mark on certified products before exporting to India.
What is the validity of BIS License granted under FMCS Scheme?
BIS certification under Scheme-I may be granted initially up to two years after payment of advance minimum marking fee. The licence is valid only for the varieties mentioned in the licence. For extension of validity and varieties covered in licence, application with requisite fee and documents under the existing licence is required to be submitted. Licence may renewed up to five years from the last of the validity
What is the time period for the grant of a BIS license under the FMCS Scheme?
Average time taken for grant of licence is generally six months from the date of receipt of complete application and its recording. It may vary for reasons like delay in response to queries raised, if any; organizing inspection(s); transportation of samples and remittance of dues, etc.
Registration Fee under BIS FMCS Scheme
| Particulars | Amount in (USD) |
|---|---|
| Application fee | $30 (tentative) |
| BIS Marking fee | $500 to $750 (tentative) |
| BIS audit fee (visiting and audit fee) | $5000 to $5500 (tentative) |
| Annual License fee | $30 (tentative) |
| Sample testing fee | As per Lab charges |
| Travelling & accommodation expenses of BIS officials for site visits including one professional | As per actual expenses |
How can we help you?
At BR & Associates, we assist foreign manufacturers throughout the BIS FMCS certification process—from identifying applicable Indian Standards and preparing documentation to coordinating factory inspections, managing product testing, and filing the licence application with BIS. We also help in appointing an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) and ensuring timely compliance with all regulatory requirements. Our goal is to provide end-to-end support to ensure a smooth, accurate, and successful BIS licensing process for exporting products to India.
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