Are you bringing goods into India, or sending goods from another country to an Indian buyer? Then you may hear this sentence soon: “Please share your BIS papers.” Many people do not know what to do next. In this guide, we explain the full path in very simple words, for both the importer and the overseas factory.

What Is the Real Meaning?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) makes quality rules for products in India. For many products, the government has made the ISI mark compulsory. When people say BIS certificate for import in India, they usually mean that the factory abroad must hold a BIS license for that product, so the goods can legally enter and be sold in India.

The Most Important Point: Who Gets It?

This is where most people get confused.

• The BIS license is given to the factory that makes the product.
• An importer or trader in India cannot apply in place of the factory.
• So the foreign factory must apply, and the importer must make sure the supplier has the license.

If you are an importer, your first job is to ask your supplier for the license. If you are a factory owner, your job is to apply.

Step 1: Find Out If Your Product Is Covered

Not every product needs the ISI mark. Only products on the government’s compulsory list do.

• Write the exact name and type of the product.
• Find the Indian Standard (IS) number that matches it.
• Check if the government has made that standard compulsory.
• Note the date from which the rule applies.

If you are not sure, ask an expert before you place or accept an order.

Step 2: Understand the Route for Overseas Factories

BIS has a special plan for factories located outside India, called FMCS. It has been running since the year 2000. Anyone searching for BIS for foreign manufacturer approval will find that this is the right route. Electronic and IT products follow a different BIS system.

Step 3: Appoint an Authorized Indian Representative

A foreign factory cannot talk to BIS directly. It needs an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).

• The AIR is a person or company in India.
• The AIR files papers and answers BIS questions for you.
• You must name the AIR through an authorization letter.

Please choose your AIR with care. A slow AIR can slow your whole file.

Step 4: Keep Your Documents Ready

Gather these in one folder:

• Company registration proof
• Factory address and layout
• Flow chart of how you make the product
• Quality control manual
• List of machines and testing equipment
• Raw material details
• Letter naming your AIR
• Product details, such as model, size and brand name

Step 5: File the Application

BIS has made FMCS applications online-only from 1 June 2026.

• Fill in the form carefully.
• Upload your papers.
• Pay the fees.
• Check names and addresses twice.

Step 6: Face the Factory Inspection and Testing

After BIS reads your file, it may ask questions and visit your factory.

• Officers check your machines, lab and quality records.
• Samples are tested in a BIS-recognized lab in India.
• You pay the testing cost.

A clean factory with good records makes this step smooth.

Step 7: Receive the License

If your papers, factory and test results are fine, BIS grants the license. You can now print the ISI mark on your product and sell it in India. This is the proof that the importer and the customs team are looking for.

A Tip for Importers: Check Before You Ship

If you are the Indian buyer, do not wait until the goods reach the port. Before you pay or ship, do these things:

• Ask your supplier for the BIS license number.
• Check that the license is for the same product and the same factory.
• Check that the license is still valid.
• Make sure the ISI mark will be printed on the product.

A small check today can save you from a stuck container tomorrow.

How Long Does It Take?

Time depends on your product and how fast you reply to BIS. As a rough idea:

• Average time: about six months from a complete application
• Maximum time set by BIS: around 180 days
• First license period: one to two years

So please start many months before your first shipment.

What Will It Cost?

Plan for these costs:

• Application and license fees
• Testing charges
• Yearly marking fee
• A bank guarantee of USD 10,000 through an approved bank
• Inspection and travel costs

Ask for a full cost list in writing before you begin.

What Comes After the License?

Getting the license is not the end of the story. Your FMCS Certification needs regular care:

• BIS may visit your factory again.
• BIS may take samples from your production for testing.
• You must pay the marking fee every year.
• You must renew the license before it ends.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Thinking the importer can apply for the factory
• Choosing the wrong Indian Standard
• Sending half-filled forms
• Appointing the AIR at the last moment
• Starting just before the shipment date

Conclusion

EVTL India is one of the leading BIS Consultant in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licenses hassle-free. Our team guides you from choosing the right standard to the final grant of the license, and explains each step in simple words.

Whether you are the factory owner or the Indian buyer, the rule is the same: check early and keep your papers ready. A little planning today can save you months of delay later.

Contact EVTL India today:

• 📞 +91 95609 35898
• 📧 contact@evtlindia.com
• 🌐 www.evtlindia.com