BIS (CRS) Registration for Electronic Products

The Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) was launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in 2012 and is operated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This scheme mandates that certain electronic and IT products must meet specified Indian Standards before they can be manufactured, imported, or sold in India.

The CRS aims to ensure that only safe, high-quality products reach consumers, thereby reducing the risk of substandard goods in the market. Under this scheme, manufacturers must have their products tested in BIS-recognized laboratories and obtain registration. Once approved, the product is granted the right to bear the BIS Standard Mark, assuring customers of its safety and compliance.

This registration is mandatory for a growing list of electronic products, which continues to expand as new technologies emerge. Both domestic and international manufacturers must comply with CRS requirements to enter or continue operating in the Indian electronics market.

By aligning with BIS CRS standards, manufacturers not only meet regulatory requirements but also build brand trust and ensure long-term market access in India.

 

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national authority responsible for standardization, quality certification, and regulatory compliance in India. In the context of electronic and IT products, BIS plays a central role in implementing and enforcing mandatory safety standards under various schemes, including the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).

Key responsibilities of BIS include:

• Defining Indian Standards (IS) applicable to electronic and IT products.
• Approving testing laboratories authorized to evaluate product samples.
• Issuing BIS Licences to manufacturers whose products conform to prescribed standards.
• Maintaining a digital registry of certified brands and models.
• Monitoring compliance and handling renewal, suspension, or cancellation of licences.
   

BIS ensures that only certified, safe, and standard-compliant products are made available to Indian consumers. Obtaining a BIS Licence is mandatory for manufacturers (domestic and foreign) of notified electronic items to access the Indian market legally.
 

The BIS Registration for Electronic & IT Products under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) is a mandatory certification process in India, designed to ensure that electronic and IT goods meet national safety and quality standards before reaching consumers. Introduced in 2012 by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) and regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), this scheme plays a crucial role in protecting consumers from substandard and counterfeit products.

Under the CRS, manufacturers—both domestic and foreign—must obtain BIS registration for a wide range of products, including items like mobile phones, laptops, LED lights, power adapters, and more, before these can be legally manufactured, imported, distributed, or sold in the Indian market.

The process involves:

• Product Testing: Manufacturers must submit product samples to BIS-recognized laboratories for testing as per relevant Indian standards.
• Self-Declaration: Registration is based on a self-declaration of conformity, supported by test reports from approved labs.
• Application Submission: Applicants submit an online application along with required documents and test results to BIS.
• Grant of Registration: Upon successful review, BIS issues a certificate, allowing the use of the BIS Standard Mark with a unique registration number on the product.
   

The BIS license is typically valid for two years and can be renewed upon expiry. The scheme currently covers around 75 product categories and is regularly updated to include new items as technology evolves.

Complying with BIS CRS registration not only ensures legal market access in India but also builds consumer trust and supports fair competition by assuring product safety and quality. Non-compliance can lead to legal penalties and market restrictions, making BIS registration essential for any business dealing in electronic and IT products in India.
 

BIS CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme) Registration offers several significant advantages for manufacturers, importers, and consumers in the Indian market:

• Ensures Product Safety & Quality
  BIS CRS certification guarantees that products meet the safety and quality standards set by the Indian government. This reduces the risk of substandard or hazardous electronic and IT goods reaching consumers, thereby protecting public health and safety.
• Legal Compliance & Avoidance of Penalties
  Registration under the BIS CRS is mandatory for certain product categories. Compliance helps manufacturers and importers avoid legal penalties, product recalls, and reputational damage that can arise from selling uncertified products.
• Boosts Consumer Confidence
  The BIS mark on a product act as a symbol of reliability and quality. It assures consumers that the product has been tested and certified, increasing trust and the likelihood of purchase.
• Market Access & Business Expansion
  BIS CRS registration is essential for entering and operating in the Indian market. It is also often required for e-commerce and international trade, enabling wider business growth opportunities.
• Enhances Brand Image & Credibility
  BIS certification adds authenticity to products and helps brands stand out against non-compliant competitors, supporting long-term brand reputation and customer loyalty.
• Streamlined Process Without Factory Audits
  The BIS CRS registration process is based on self-declaration and product testing, eliminating the need for factory inspections and making certification faster and more accessible for manufacturers.
• Protection from Counterfeit and Substandard Products
  The scheme helps keep fake and poor-quality products out of the market, ensuring a level playing field for compliant businesses and better protection for consumers.

In summary, BIS CRS registration is a critical step for any manufacturer or importer of electronic and IT products targeting the Indian market, as it ensures compliance, safety, and credibility while unlocking market opportunities and consumer trust

To obtain BIS CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme) registration for electronic and IT products, the following eligibility criteria must be met:

• Manufacturer Requirement: Only manufacturers—whether based in India or abroad—are eligible to apply for BIS CRS registration. Importers, traders, or distributors cannot apply unless they are also the manufacturer.
• Product Coverage: The product must be included in the list of goods notified under the CRS by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). As of now, 79 categories of electronic and IT products are covered. You must confirm that your product is listed under the mandatory CRS scheme.
• Compliance with Indian Standards: The product must conform to the relevant Indian Standard (IS) specified for its category. This is verified through testing in a BIS-recognized laboratory, and only original test reports from these labs are accepted.
• Authorized Indian Representative (AIR): Foreign manufacturers without a liaison or branch office in India must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to act on their behalf during the registration process. The AIR must submit the required affidavit and undertaking as per BIS guidelines.
• Self-Declaration: The manufacturer must provide a self-declaration of conformity, confirming that the product meets the applicable Indian standards and that the manufacturing infrastructure supports consistent quality production.
• Affidavit/Undertaking: All applicants must submit an affidavit cum undertaking in the prescribed format (Format A/B for foreign manufacturers, Format C for Indian manufacturers) as part of the application process.
• No Pre-requisite Beyond Product Standard: There is no other pre-requisite for registration—if your product is as per the Indian Standard and falls under the notified categories, you are eligible to apply.

In summary, BIS CRS registration is mandatory for manufacturers whose products are listed under the CRS scheme and who can demonstrate compliance with the relevant Indian standards through testing in BIS-approved labs. Foreign manufacturers must also appoint an AIR in India to complete the process.
 

For Domestic and Foreign Manufacturers

Below is a clear, side-by-side format outlining the BIS CRS registration process for both Domestic and Foreign Manufacturers:

Key Differences

• Authorized Indian Representative (AIR):
  • Domestic: Not required.
  • Foreign: Mandatory. AIR acts as the local point of contact and is responsible for all regulatory communications.
• Affidavit/Undertaking Format:
  • Domestic: Format C
  • Foreign: Format A/B (along with AIR nomination)

Summary

• Both domestic and foreign manufacturers must test products in BIS-approved labs, submit applications (online and hard copy), and respond to BIS queries.
• Foreign manufacturers must appoint an AIR in India and submit additional documentation related to the AIR.
• After approval, products can carry the BIS CRS mark and be legally sold in India.
   

1. If you have previously tested your product, you may reuse the test reports for BIS CRS certification only if the reports are no older than 90 days from the date of online application receipt.
2. In the case of submitting a supplementary test report for a brand whose product has already been tested and approved by BIS, the report must also be within 90 days of the application date.
3. The product must be tested in a BIS-recognized laboratory. Ensure the lab is listed on the official BIS website to avoid application rejection.
4. Once the application is submitted, BIS processes the registration within 20 working days, provided all documentation and test reports are complete and compliant.
5. If the submitted documents or reports are found incomplete or unsatisfactory, BIS will issue a rejection notice. If the deficiencies are not rectified within 30 days, the application may be cancelled.
6. Independent samples are picked up only during surveillance—not at the time of initial registration.

Validity & Renewal of BIS Licence

• BIS licence for electronic products under CRS is granted for a minimum of 2 years.
• If no adverse feedback is recorded during periodic surveillance, the licence is eligible for renewal upon the licensee's request.
• The renewal application must be submitted within 90 days before the license expiry. Failure to do so will result in the licence being treated as expired.
• Renewal is subject to:
  • Submission of the renewal application and requisite documents
  • Payment of application fee, annual fee, processing charges, and clearance of any outstanding dues
• If not renewed within the allowed timeframe, a fresh BIS registration must be obtained.

New Application

• Application Fee: INR 1,000
• Processing Fee: INR 50,000 (includes one test report)
• Fee for Additional Test Report: INR 20,000 per additional test report
• Annual Licence Fee: INR 1,000 per year
• Total for 2-Year Licence (with one test report): INR 53,000
  Note: The processing and licence fees are applicable for a minimum of two years.
   

Inclusion of New Models

• Inclusion Fee: INR 30,000 (includes one test report)
• Fee for Additional Test Report: INR 20,000 per additional test report
   

Renewal of Licence

• Application Fee: INR 1,000
• Renewal Processing Fee: INR 50,000
• Annual Licence Fee: INR 1,000 per year
• Additional Fee for Renewal Beyond 2 Years: INR 25,000 per additional year
• Total for 2-Year Renewal: INR 53,000
  Note: Renewal can be applied for 2, 3, 4, or 5 years.
   

Notes

• Marking Fee: Determined by BIS based on factors such as production volume and cost of surveillance. It is communicated separately upon licence approval.
• Payment Mode: All payments must be made through RTGS/NEFT to the account details specified by BIS at the time of application.
• Taxes: All applicable fees are subject to Goods and Services Tax (GST) as per prevailing Indian tax laws.
   

To obtain BIS Licence under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) for electronic and IT products, manufacturers must submit a comprehensive set of documents.

Below is a consolidated checklist based on the latest requirements: 

• Photo Identification Proof of Manufacturer: Valid government-issued photo ID of the manufacturer’s authorized signatory. 
• Complete Address Proof of Manufacturer: Business license or official address proof of the manufacturing unit. 
• Company Registration Documents: 
  1. Certificate of Incorporation or Business Registration Certificate 
  2. Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA) 
• PAN Card and GST Registration: Proof of tax compliance for Indian manufacturers. 
• Brand Registration Certificate: Proof of brand name registration, or an authorization letter if the manufacturer is not the brand owner. 
• Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) Documents: Required for foreign manufacturers, including nomination form and supporting affidavits. 
• Application Forms:  
  1. Form 1: Application form with manufacturing, product, and brand details 
  2. Form 2: Self-declaration of conformity to Indian Standards 
  3. Form 3: Affidavit confirming the legality and authenticity of submitted documents. 
• Laboratory Test Reports: Original test reports from BIS-recognized laboratories confirming product conformity with relevant Indian Standards. 
• Manufacturing Process Documents: 
  1. Manufacturing process flow chart 
  2. List of manufacturing machinery 
  3. List of testing equipment and calibration certificates (if available). 
• Product Documents: 
  1. PCB layout and schematic diagram 
  2. User manual 
  3. Critical Component List (CCL) 
  4. Model numbers and product variants to be covered. 
• Affidavit/Undertaking: As per prescribed BIS formats (Format A/B for foreign, Format C for Indian manufacturers). 
• Copy of Portal Acknowledgement: Proof of online application submission. 
• Details of Authorized Signatory: Name, designation, and ID proof of the person authorized to sign documents on behalf of the manufacturer. 

Note: 

• All documents must be submitted through the BIS online portal, and hard copies may be required within a specified period after online submission.
• Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to act on their behalf for the registration process. 
• This checklist ensures a smooth BIS CRS registration process and compliance with Indian regulatory standards for electronic and IT products.
   

                                                  Click here for full BIS Product List
 

KMA Global offers structured and professional consultancy for manufacturers seeking BIS Registration for electronic and IT products notified under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).

Mr. Ajay Kumar Bhatnagar, Former Senior Director, BIS

Mr. Mahim Jain, Former Deputy Director General (Certification) & Head of FMCD, BIS

With over 60 years of combined experience at the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), our leadership offers valuable insight, strategic direction, and a deep understanding of BIS processes.
 

1. Comprehensive Support Throughout the BIS Registration Process

We assist manufacturers right from the initial stage to the successful grant of registration:

• Identification of applicable standards and product categories
• Coordination with BIS-recognized testing laboratories
• Preparation of required documentation
• Filing of the application through the BIS online portal
• Communication and follow-ups with BIS officials
• Assistance in fulfilling post-registration requirements
   

As your trusted consultant, we ensure a smooth and structured journey for Foreign & Domestic manufacturers complying with Indian Standards.
 

2. Streamlined and Efficient Process

We understand the detailed procedures and documentation needed for BIS registration. Our expertise enables you to:

• Minimize errors and avoid procedural delays
• Address BIS queries with clarity and accuracy
• Ensure prompt responses and follow-ups
• Reduce rework and resubmissions
   

With us, the journey to BIS compliance is faster, more transparent, and stress-free.

3. Updated Knowledge of Bureau of Indian Standards Act, Rules & Regulations

Our leadership’s involvement in BIS policy, implementation, and certification activities ensures real-time awareness of evolving Indian Standards, amendments, and procedural updates. We ensure that your documentation, systems, and factory processes align with the latest BIS requirements.

5. Personalized Service for Every Client

We treat each client as a strategic partner, offering:

• Customized certification roadmaps
• Dedicated point-of-contact
• Tailored timelines and technical solutions
• Transparent communication throughout

Whether you’re applying for your first BIS licence or extending your certification to additional product standards, we adapt to your specific manufacturing needs with precision.

Looking for ISI Mark Certification?

• For Foreign Manufacturer, explore our FMCS Certification page for detailed guidance.
• For Indian Manufacturers, visit our ISI Mark Certification for Domestic Manufacturers page to understand how we can support you.