BIS FMCS Certification
BIS FMCS certification is a quality and safety approval for products manufactured outside India that are intended for the Indian market. It is administered by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Indias national standards body.
Get Free Consultation
Overview of BIS FMCS Certification
BIS FMCS certification is a quality and safety approval for products manufactured outside India that are intended for the Indian market. It is administered by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Indias national standards body.
The BIS is the sole national standards body of India. Established under the BIS Act 2016, its primary objective is to develop and promote standardization, quality control, and marking of goods.
BIS plays a crucial role in safeguarding public health, safety, and the environment, and preventing unfair trade practices. When a product has BIS FMCS certification, it signifies that it meets the rigorous Indian Standards set by this authority.
FMCS stands for "Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme." This specific scheme, launched by BIS in 2000, allows manufacturers whose factories are located outside India to obtain a license to use the covetedISI Markon their products for sale in India.
Essentially, if you are a foreign company that wants to export certain regulated products to India, you will need to go through the FMCS BIS process. It is designed to ensure that imported goods meet the same high standards as domestically produced ones.
ISI Mark is the symbol seen on products, while FMCS is the certification process that allows foreign manufacturers to use the ISI Mark in India, among others, as follows:
Eligibility Criteria
Check BIS Website:Regularly visit the official BIS website (www.bis.gov.in) under the Product Certification section. They publish lists of products under mandatory certification (QCOs).
Consult Experts:The simplest and most reliable way is to consult with BIS FMCS Certification consultants who specialize in Indian regulatory compliance. They stay updated with the latest QCOs and can accurately identify the relevant Indian Standards for your product.
Review Customs Notifications:Indian customs authorities also enforce these QCOs, so checking customs notifications related to imports can provide clarity.
Documents Required
Registration Process
Step 1: Finding the Right Indian Standard (IS) for Your Product
Before anything else, you must identify the specific Indian Standard (IS) that applies to your product. Each product category has a unique IS code outlining its safety, quality, and performance requirements. This standard will dictate the testing parameters and factory requirements for your BIS FMCS Certification.
Step 2: Appointing an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
This is a mandatory and crucial step for any foreign manufacturer seeking FMCS BIS certification. You must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) who is a resident Indian individual or entity. The AIR acts as your legal liaison with BIS in India, assuming responsibility for compliance with BIS regulations, handling communications, and coordinating the entire certification process on your behalf. They must be nominated officially by the foreign manufacturer.
Step 3: Getting Your Factory and Product Ready for Inspection
Once you have identified the IS and appointed an AIR, you need to prepare your manufacturing facility for an audit by BIS officials.
Step 4: Applying Online on the BIS Portal
The AIR will then initiate the application process online on the BIS Manak Online Portal under the BIS FMCS scheme module. This involves filling out the prescribed application form and uploading all the required documents. An application fee must be paid at this stage.
Step 5: The Factory Audit by BIS Officials
After the application scrutiny and payment of fees, BIS will schedule an inspection of your manufacturing facility. Two BIS officials will visit your factory (outside India) to:
Step 6: Product Testing in a BIS-approved Lab
The product samples drawn during the factory audit are sent to a BIS-recognized laboratory in India. These labs conduct comprehensive tests as per the identified Indian Standard to confirm that the product meets all specified safety and quality parameters. The test report from this lab is a vital document for granting the license.
Step 7: Receiving Your FMCS License and Marking Your Products
Once the factory audit report is satisfactory, and the product test reports confirm conformity to the Indian Standard, BIS reviews the complete application. If everything is in order, BIS grants the FMCS BIS license. After receiving the license, you must ensure that all products intended for the Indian market bear the ISI Mark along with the unique license number (CM/L No.) as per BIS guidelines. This marking is mandatory and signifies your products compliance.
Fees & Charges
| Fee Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | Non-refundable |
| Special Visit Charges/Inspection Charges (per BIS official/day) | Includes travel days |
| Testing Charges | Depends on the product and the lab |
| Per‑Diem Charges (BIS officers allowance) | Charged for site inspection |
| Airfare, Visa, Insurance, etc. | Covers travel arrangements |
| Contingency Fund (one-time non-refundable) | Advance fund held by BIS |
| Annual License Fee | Payable each year |
| Renewal Application Fee | Non-refundable |
| Late Fee for Renewal (if delayed) | Rs. 5,000 penalty |
| Marking Fee | Based on product and volume |
| Duplicate License Issuance | For reprints |
| Processing Charges for New Varieties/Designs | Required for each new addition |
| Counter-Sample Testing & Witnessing Charges | For sample checks |
Key Advantages
Consumer Confidence
The ISI Mark is widely recognized and trusted by Indian consumers. Displaying it on your product instantly builds credibility and consumer confidence.
Legal Market Entry
It provides legal authorization to sell your products in India, avoiding penalties, shipment detentions, and other complications at customs.
Competitive Edge
In a competitive market, having a BIS FMCS license can differentiate your product from uncertified alternatives, giving you a significant advantage.
Government Procurement
Many government tenders and large-scale projects in India mandate BIS-certified products, opening up significant business opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Us?
Expert Professionals Team
Qualified Chartered Accountants and Company Secretaries handle your filing.
Fast Processing
Quick turnaround with dedicated support at every step.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden charges. Know exactly what you pay for.
100% Data Security
Your documents and data are encrypted and confidential.
Trusted by Thousands
Thousands of businesses registered successfully.
24/7 Support
Dedicated relationship manager and customer support.

