India is one of the fastest-growing manufacturing and consumer markets in the world. As international companies look to tap into India’s vast market potential, product quality and compliance with Indian standards become critical. To ensure imported goods meet the country’s safety and quality benchmarks, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) introduced the Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS).
Through FMCS Certification, foreign manufacturers can legally use the ISI Mark on their products a trusted symbol of quality assurance in India.
At ECS India, we help global manufacturers navigate the complex process of FMCS registration India, ensuring full BIS compliance with minimal hassle.
What is FMCS Certification in India?
The Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS) is operated by BIS under Scheme-I of Schedule-II of BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.
This certification allows foreign manufacturers to use the ISI Mark on their products after successful evaluation, factory audit, and product testing demonstrating that the products comply with the Indian Standard (IS) requirements.
The FMCS license is mandatory for certain categories of industrial and consumer products imported into India.
Who Needs FMCS Registration?
FMCS Certification is mandatory for foreign manufacturers who:
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Produce goods outside India.
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Wish to export or sell their products in the Indian market.
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Manufacture items that fall under BIS mandatory certification list.
This includes sectors like:
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Electrical & Electronic Products
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Steel & Industrial Materials
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Household Goods
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Chemicals & Fertilizers
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Cement & Construction Materials
FMCS Certification Process in India
Obtaining FMCS Certification involves several stages. At ECS India, our consultants ensure the process is handled smoothly and efficiently.
Application Submission
The manufacturer must submit an application to BIS along with all required documents, including business licenses, product details, test reports, and the Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) nomination.
Document Review
BIS verifies all submitted documents to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Factory Audit & Inspection
BIS officials conduct an on-site audit of the foreign manufacturing facility to confirm:
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Production process consistency
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Testing infrastructure
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Quality control systems
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Product samples for testing
Sample Testing
Samples taken during the factory audit are tested in BIS-recognized laboratories to verify compliance with Indian Standards.
Grant of License
Once the inspection and testing reports meet BIS Licence under FMCS requirements, the manufacturer receives the FMCS License to use the ISI Mark on their products.
Renewal
The license is initially valid for 1–2 years and can be renewed for up to 5 years upon payment of renewal and marking fees.
FMCS Certification Fees in India
Below is a simplified cost structure for FMCS Registration:
| Fee Component | Amount (INR) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | 1,000 | Non-refundable submission fee |
| Factory Inspection Charges | 7,000 per man-day | On-site audit cost by BIS officials |
| Testing Charges | Varies | Based on product category |
| Annual License Fee | 1,000 | Payable after certification |
| Renewal Fee | 1,000 | For extending license validity |
| Late Fee | 5,000 | If renewal is delayed |
| Marking Fee | Varies | Based on product type & production volume |
| Additional Charges | Approx. 10,000 | Visa, travel, and contingency costs |
💡 Note: All fees are payable either in Indian Rupees (with GST) or equivalent US dollars by SAARC country manufacturers.
Documents Required for FMCS Registration
Foreign manufacturers must provide the following documents:
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Business License and ISO Certificate (in English)
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Manufacturing Process Flow Chart
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Product Drawings or Designs
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List of Machinery and Equipment
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Test Equipment Calibration Certificates
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Product Test Reports (as per Indian Standards)
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Raw Material Test Certificates
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Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) Nomination Details
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Undertaking and Declaration Form
Role of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
A foreign manufacturer without an office in India must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
The AIR acts as the local liaison between BIS and the foreign manufacturer, responsible for:
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Handling documentation and communication
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Representing the manufacturer during certification
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Ensuring compliance with BIS regulations
The AIR must be an Indian citizen and can represent only one foreign manufacturer at a time.
FMCS Certification Timeline
The certification process generally takes 6 to 9 months, depending on:
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Timely document submission
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Audit scheduling
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Test results and approvals
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Applicant’s response to BIS queries
ECS India helps clients minimize delays by managing every step from document preparation to liaison with BIS.
Validity and Renewal
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Initial Validity: 1–2 years
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Renewal Period: Up to 5 years
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Renewal requires:
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Updated application form
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Production details
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Performance Bank Guarantee (extended by 6 months)
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Payment of marking and renewal fees
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Benefits of FMCS Certification in India
✅ Legal authorization to export and sell products in India
✅ Enhanced brand credibility through ISI Mark
✅ Compliance with Indian quality standards
✅ Easier customs clearance for imports
✅ Greater customer trust and market acceptance
Why Choose ECS India?
At ECS India, our expert consultants simplify the FMCS Certification process by providing:
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End-to-end documentation assistance
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Coordination with BIS officials
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Support in product testing and compliance
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Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) services
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Renewal and post-certification support
Our mission is to help foreign manufacturers achieve BIS compliance efficiently and cost-effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who issues the FMCS Certification in India?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) issues FMCS certificates to foreign manufacturers under the ISI Mark Scheme.
How long does it take to get FMCS Certification?
The entire process usually takes 6–9 months, depending on the manufacturer’s readiness and BIS inspection schedules.
Is FMCS Certification mandatory for all imported products?
No, only products listed under mandatory BIS certification categories require FMCS registration.
Can ECS India help with FMCS application and testing?
Yes, ECS India provides complete consultancy support from documentation to final certification.
Conclusion
Obtaining FMCS Certification India is a crucial step for any foreign manufacturer aiming to access the Indian market. It not only ensures compliance with BIS quality standards but also enhances brand trust and market acceptance.
While the process involves multiple stages from application and factory audits to testing and approval partnering with an experienced consultancy like ECS India makes it smooth and hassle-free.
Our team of BIS experts guides manufacturers at every step, ensuring accurate documentation, timely approvals, and full regulatory compliance. With ECS India, you can focus on production while we handle the certification complexities for you.
👉 Partner with ECS India today to simplify your FMCS Registration in India and get BIS-approved to sell your products confidently in the Indian market.
