In today’s rapidly expanding electronics market in India, getting the right certifications is more than just a formality — it’s a business requirement. If you're manufacturing or importing electronics, securing BIS certification is essential to meet government regulations, assure product quality, and gain customer trust.
Whether you're launching a new tech product or expanding into Indian markets, understanding how BIS certification works for electronic products will save you time, money, and potential legal trouble.
Why BIS Certification is Important for Electronics
BIS, or the Bureau of Indian Standards, is India’s national standards body. Its main goal is to ensure that products meet safety and quality standards before reaching consumers. For electronics, BIS certification ensures devices are safe for use and function reliably under local conditions.
Key benefits:
Regulatory compliance: Many electronic products cannot be sold in India without BIS approval.
Consumer safety: Certified products go through rigorous testing to prevent electrical hazards or malfunctions.
Market access: Certification is often required to import or clear products through customs.
Brand trust: The BIS mark is recognized by consumers as a sign of safety and quality.
As India’s electronics industry continues to grow, so does the list of items that require BIS certification before hitting the market.
Different BIS Certification Schemes for Electronics
There are several BIS schemes depending on the type of product and where it's manufactured:
Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)
CRS is applicable to many electronics such as smartphones, laptops, and chargers. Products under this scheme must be tested in BIS-recognized labs and registered before sale.ISI Mark Certification
This applies to items where long-term quality control is vital. The process involves both lab testing and factory inspections.Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)
For companies that manufacture outside India, FMCS allows certification of their products for Indian markets, provided they meet required standards and appoint an authorized Indian representative.Other product-specific schemes
Certain items like batteries, smart meters, and LED products may fall under unique categories or notifications.
Knowing which scheme applies to your product is the first step toward compliance.
Electronic Products That Require BIS Certification
India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and other regulatory bodies routinely publish lists of electronics that need mandatory certification. Below are examples of product categories often requiring it:
Smartphones and mobile handsets
Laptops, notebooks, and tablets
Power banks
LED lights and lighting equipment
Chargers, power adapters
Wireless keyboards and mice
Televisions and smart displays
CCTV cameras and video recorders
UPS and inverters
Printers, scanners, and multifunctional devices
Set-top boxes and home audio systems
Electronic clocks and alarm systems
The government updates this list regularly. If your product category has recently emerged (like smart home gadgets or wearables), it’s worth checking if new regulations apply.
The BIS Certification Process for Electronics
The process to get certified involves multiple steps, but with the right preparation, it’s manageable.
1. Identify the Correct Standard
Each product type has an applicable Indian Standard (IS). For example, mobile phones typically fall under IS 13252 Part 1. Determining the right one is critical.
2. Testing at a BIS-Recognized Lab
You must send product samples to a BIS-approved testing facility in India. The lab will check for safety, performance, insulation, temperature, and more depending on the product type.
3. Prepare and Submit Documentation
You’ll need to gather key documents, such as:
Business and factory registration proof
Product datasheets
Test reports
Trademark documents (if any)
Authorization letters (especially for foreign manufacturers)
4. Submit the Application
The application is filed online via the official BIS portal. Fees vary depending on the type and number of products.
5. Review and Approval
Once submitted, the BIS authority reviews your application. If everything is in order, you’ll receive a registration number or license, typically valid for two years.
6. Product Marking and Compliance
You must label the certified product with the BIS registration number or applicable mark before placing it on the market. Products must continue to meet standards during the certification period.
Timeline and Costs
While costs vary based on the type of product and testing complexity, here are some general estimates:
Note that foreign manufacturers may also have to factor in international shipping of samples, appointing a local representative, and translation of documents.
Common Challenges and Mistakes to Avoid
Even though the process is clearly defined, several mistakes can slow down or derail certification:
Applying under the wrong BIS scheme or standard
Submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation
Failing to match product components with certification data
Delaying renewals or ignoring surveillance requirements
Not staying updated with regulation changes
Planning in advance and possibly working with a compliance partner can help avoid these issues. Remember that BIS has the right to cancel certification if ongoing compliance is not maintained.
Best Practices for a Smooth Certification
To ensure your product gets certified without unnecessary delays:
Start early: The process takes several weeks. Begin as soon as product development is complete.
Do a pre-assessment: Run internal checks or mock audits before sending products for testing.
Work with accredited labs: Only BIS-approved labs are valid for testing.
Maintain traceability: Keep full documentation of every component and change during manufacturing.
Plan for renewal: Track expiration dates and prepare in advance for certification renewals.
Final Thoughts
As India’s digital ecosystem grows, so do safety and compliance standards. For manufacturers, importers, and brand owners, understanding BIS certification is essential not only to comply with regulations but also to protect consumers and build brand credibility. With categories like smartphones, laptops, LED lights, and power accessories falling under mandatory requirements, it’s crucial to stay updated and proactive.
By following the proper process — from selecting the right standard and completing lab testing to filing documents and labeling correctly — you can ensure smooth market entry and avoid penalties.
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