BIS Certification for Electronic Goods: A Complete Guide for Manufacturers and Importers

Published on: April 17, 2025

In today’s technology-driven world, electronic goods have become essential in our daily lives—from smartphones, laptops, and LED lights to kitchen appliances and smart TVs. With a growing demand for quality and safety in electronic products, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is critical in ensuring that electronic goods meet prescribed standards.

If you are a manufacturer or importer of electronics in India, obtaining BIS certification for electronic goods is not only a smart move—it’s mandatory for several product categories. This blog will walk you through everything you need to know about BIS certification for electronics, including the application process, benefits, and why Ascent Inspecta is the best consultancy partner to help you achieve compliance.

What is BIS Certification?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India, working under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. BIS certification ensures that a product complies with Indian standards and is safe for public use. The certification is governed under the BIS Act, 2016.

For electronic goods, BIS certification is typically mandatory under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). Products under CRS cannot be sold in the Indian market unless they are registered with BIS.

Why is BIS Certification for Electronic Goods Important?

• → Consumer Safety: Ensures electronic goods are safe and free from hazards like electric shocks, overheating, or radiation.
• → Quality Assurance: Builds trust by verifying that the product meets performance and durability standards.
• → Legal Compliance: Mandatory for many electronics; non-compliance can lead to penalties, product recalls, and bans.
• → Market Access: Enables domestic sale and smooth import into the Indian market.
• → Brand Credibility: Strengthens your product image and brand reputation.

List of Electronic Goods Requiring Mandatory BIS Certification

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has identified a range of electronics under the CRS that require BIS certification, including:

• → Mobile phones
• → LED lights and bulbs
• → Power banks
• → Laptops, tablets, and computers
• → Smartwatches and wearable electronics
• → CCTV cameras
• → Battery chargers
• → Printers and scanners
• → Microwave ovens
• → Set-top boxes
• → USB storage devices

This list continues to expand as technology evolves.

BIS Certification Process for Electronic Goods

The certification process under CRS involves several stages, including testing, documentation, and registration. Here's a step-by-step overview:

1. Identify Applicable Standards: Every electronic product must comply with a specific Indian Standard (IS). For example:
   • → IS 13252 (Part 1) for IT Equipment
   • → IS 616 for Audio, Video, and TV Equipment
2. Product Testing at BIS-Recognized Lab: Manufacturers must send product samples to a BIS-recognized testing laboratory in India. Testing ensures the product meets all technical and safety requirements.
3. Application Submission: Submit your online application through the BIS portal, along with the following documents:
   • → Test report from BIS-recognized lab
   • → Business license and company registration
   • → Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) details (for foreign manufacturers)
   • → Product manual and photographs
   • → Declaration of conformity
4. Evaluation by BIS: The BIS authority verifies the submitted documents and test reports. If satisfied, BIS will approve the application.
5. Grant of Registration: Upon successful evaluation, BIS grants a Registration Certificate (RC). This license allows you to affix the Standard Mark (ISI mark) on your products.
6. Post-Certification Compliance: Manufacturers must ensure continued compliance with BIS standards through surveillance audits, retesting, and proper labeling.

BIS Certification for Importers and Foreign Manufacturers

Foreign manufacturers who wish to sell their products in India must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to apply for BIS certification on their behalf. The AIR acts as a liaison between BIS and the overseas applicant.

It is crucial to ensure the AIR is reliable, experienced, and capable of managing compliance requirements, document submissions, and testing logistics.

Challenges Faced During BIS Certification

• → Complex Documentation: One of the biggest hurdles for applicants is preparing the right documents.
• → Understanding Standards: Identifying the correct Indian Standard for your product.
• → Lab Testing Delays: BIS-authorized labs may have long queues or require retesting.
• → Frequent Regulatory Changes: BIS updates product categories and standards regularly.
• → Language Barriers (for Foreign Manufacturers): Understanding the Indian regulatory framework can be tough for non-native speakers.

This is why working with a professional BIS consultant makes the entire process easier and faster.

Why Choose Ascent Inspecta for BIS Certification?

• → End-to-End Support: We handle the complete process—from identifying applicable standards to testing coordination, documentation, application submission, and final registration.
• → Expert Consultants: Our experienced consultants understand every detail of the BIS certification process. Whether you're a domestic manufacturer or a foreign brand, we provide clear and effective guidance.
• → Assistance with Authorized Indian Representative (AIR): For international clients, we act as or help appoint a qualified AIR to manage the entire BIS certification procedure.
• → Fast-Track Certification: With our proactive coordination and process management, we ensure you get your BIS license in the shortest time possible—saving time and avoiding costly delays.
• → Product Category Expertise: We’ve successfully handled BIS certification for a wide variety of electronic products, including smartphones, LED TVs, laptops, chargers, and more.
• → Post-Certification Support: Our support doesn’t stop after the license is issued. We help you maintain compliance through updates, renewals, and audit preparation.