FMCS vs CRS vs ISI: What’s the Difference in BIS Certification Schemes?

BIS certification is essential in India's regulatory environment to guarantee product quality, safety, and customer confidence. The three main schemes operated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)—FMCS, CRS, and ISI Certification—are frequently confused by manufacturers, though.

Understanding the various BIS certification programs—FMCS, CRS, and ISI Mark—is crucial for compliance, safety, and market access if you intend to manufacture, export, or sell goods in India.

We'll breakdown these schemes in this blog to assist you determine which one applies to your product, particularly in 2025 when standards are more rigid than ever.

BIS Certification: What is it?  

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national organization in the role of establishing and upholding product standards in India.  It is run by the Government of India's Ministry of Consumer Affairs and makes sure that imported and local goods meet to Indian Standards (IS codes).
BIS has mainly three certification Schemes to oversee various product categories and producers:

• Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)

• Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)

• ISI Mark Certification

Certified ISI Mark (Domestic Licensing) What is it?

Certification of the ISI (Indian standards Institution) mark is intended for Indian Manufacturers of products that meet the required BIS standards.

Who Needs It?
• Domestic manufacturers of products such as sealed drinking water, steel, cement, and home appliances.
• Items on the BIS-notified obligatory certification list. Important attributes:
• Contains ongoing monitoring, sample testing, and factory inspection.
• Only after complete adherence to the applicable Indian Standard (IS code) is a license issued.

Marking: • The ISI mark and the license number (CM/L-1234567, for example) must be displayed on products.

CRS – Compulsory Registration Scheme

What is it?

under the Electronics & IT Goods Order, which was introduced in 2012. Launched by MeitY and operated by BIS, CRS is a self-declaration-based registration scheme tailored only for electronics and IT devices.

Who Needs It?
• Producers of devices such as laptops, LED TVs, power banks, and cell phones, among others.
• Both Indian and foreign manufactures are included. Important attributes:
• No surveillance audit or factory inspection.
• Products must be tested in Indian labs approved by the BIS.
• After passing, the manufacturer can use the BIS portal to apply for registration.

Marking: • The product must have the R-number (such as R-12345678) and the BIS Standard Mark.

Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).  What is it?

FMCS is a key initiative by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for Overseas Manufacturers wishing to export goods that meet all safety standards and Indian quality.

Who Requires It?
• Foreign manufacturers of goods covered by required BIS standards, such as pressure cookers, cement, and electrical appliances. Important attributes:
• Appointing an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) is necessary.
• The foreign manufacturing unit is inspected by BIS inspectors.
• Samples must undergo testing in Indian labs authorized by BIS.
• Renewing licenses annually while conducting surveillance audits.

Marking: • The ISI mark and license number (following the domestic ISI certification format) must be shown on the finished product.

Comparison Table: FMCS vs CRS vs ISI

Which of the BIS Schemes Do You Apply to?

Think about it:
• Are you an Indian or foreign manufacturer?
• Does your product fall under the required ISI product list or the MeitY electronics list?
• Does your product only need lab testing, or does it also need a factory audit and thorough inspection?

How KMA Global Can Assist:
Whether you're having trouble with documentation or standards, our experienced team, which includes former BIS officials, guarantees a quick and easy certification process.

Concluding Remarks
Selecting the appropriate BIS scheme is essential to preventing penalties, rejections, and delays.
Seeking professional assistance for your FMCS, ISI, or CRS certification?

Get your product BIS-certified with confidence by getting in touch with KMA Global right now.