With the growing use of CCTV cameras in India for security and surveillance, ensuring the quality, reliability, and compliance of such products has become increasingly important. Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) for CCTV Cameras helps demonstrate that the product meets these requirements. The Government of India has mandated that all CCTV cameras sold or installed in the country must be STQC- certified with cybersecurity Essential Requirements (ERs)

The guide explains the STQC certification process for CCTV cameras in India in 2026, including all requirements for testing, certification, and documentation. The guide is especially helpful for CCTV camera manufacturers, importers, distributors, and other security systems providers in India in understanding the regulatory requirements before entering the Indian market.

What is STQC Certification for CCTV Cameras?

The STQC Certification for CCTV Cameras is a conformity and quality assessment process conducted by the Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) Directorate under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, that provides testing and certification services for various electronic and IT products.

For CCTV cameras and surveillance equipment, STQC testing/certification evaluates whether the product meets the technical, functional, quality, and security requirements set out in the relevant standards/specifications for that product category.

Is STQC Certification Mandatory for CCTV Cameras in India?

Yes, compliance with STQC security standards is mandatory for CCTV cameras subject to the relevant regulations. The reason for this is the direct correlation between the Essential Requirements for Security, as defined by MeitY, and the testing and certification conducted by STQC. The transition period for this provision ended on April 1, 2026. 

To put it another way, the maker or importer of any CCTV camera must warrant that it complies with security requirements before launching it in the Indian market. The goal of this requirement is to support effective cybersecurity, protect the camera system, and inform the effective design of the product and firmware.


What Happens If a CCTV Camera Isn't STQC Certified After April 2026?

As of April 1, 2026, CCTV models that do not meet the Essential Requirements (ERs) cannot be legally sold in the Indian market. 

  • Restrictions on sale: Non-complying CCTV camera models shall not be put up for sale/distribution in India from the date of enforcement of such requirement.
  • Import concerns: The importer faces compliance challenges when importing such non-compliant models into the Indian market.
  • Market access issues: Non-compliance with security requirements renders the model ineligible for legal market placement.
  • Certification requirement: Ensure that each applicable CCTV model complies with the STQC Essential Requirements (ERs) for Security.
  • Existing installations: In general, the installation of a CCTV system in place prior to the applicable cut-off date will not be affected by the introduction of the new requirement.
  • Impact on business: Continued dealing with the non-compliant model is associated with potential difficulties.

STQC vs BIS ER-01 for CCTV Cameras: What's the Difference?

The relationship between STQC and BIS ER-01 is very strong regarding the testing of CCTVs in India, but they are distinct. The Essential Requirements (ERs) for Security are the security requirements laid down by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and STQC is one of the agencies that implements them.

Aspect

STQC

BIS ER-01 / Security ERs

What is it?

A government testing and certification organisation under MeitY

A set of Essential Requirements for Security prescribed by MeitY

Purpose

Tests and evaluates CCTV cameras

Defines required security criteria

Role

Conducts security testing

Sets technical security requirements

Focus

Product testing & conformity

CCTV security & cybersecurity

BIS Link

Provides a security test report

Supports BIS/CRO compliance

Coverage

Applicable CCTV cameras under STQC schemes

CCTV cameras covered under CRO/MeitY requirements

Step-by-Step STQC Certification Process for CCTV Cameras 

Step-by-step guide to the Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) process for CCTV cameras in India involves:

  • Prepare a TCF (Technical Construction File): Provides information on architectural designs, hardware configurations, firmware description, and security (such as secure boot, encryption, and authentication) that adheres to MeitY’s Essential Requirements.
  • Application Submission: Submit the online application either via STQC e-Services or through other channels, including details of the product and manufacturing company.
  • Payment and Verification: Complete ID verification and pay the fee through the official BharatKosh portal.
  • Reviewing Documents: The STQC authorities will evaluate your technical documents for completeness and accuracy.
  • Testing in Laboratory: Conduct testing of your product samples at STQC-empaneled labs in accordance with the security criteria and quality standards.
  • Evaluation and Audit: Go through the audit of manufacturing processes as needed, and then evaluate the test report by the Certification Committee.
  • Grant of Certificate: Obtain the STQC certificate, valid for 3 years from the date of issue and renewal must be initiated before expiry.

How to Verify an STQC Certificate on the STQC Portal

Companies can verify the authenticity of their STQC Certificate by visiting the official STQC website. The portal offers a feature called “Verify Your Certificate” that allows users to verify certificate details using the information.

Steps to Verify an STQC Certificate:

  • Access the STQC Certificate Verification Portal.
  • Choose the type of certificate.
  • Enter the Certificate Number as shown on the certificate.
  • Type the Date of Issue.
  • Provide the CAPTCHA if prompted.
  • Press “Verify” to see the certificate details.
  • Compare the information on the portal with that on the certificate, such as the certificate number, certificate type, and date of issue.

Who Needs STQC Certification: Manufacturers, Importers, Distributors, Integrators?

Manufacturers, importers, distributors, and integrators share the responsibility under India’s STQC certification, but the product testing and obtaining the certification fall under manufacturers or the actual importers of the product:

  • Manufacturers: They must design these devices, conduct testing to comply with the Essential Requirements (ER) set by MeitY, obtain a core test report from an accredited STQC Lab, and ensure that the factories have been certified.
  • Importers: They cannot legally import uncertified electronic/surveillance equipment into India; they must ensure that all models with specific firmware are certified before customs clearance and sale.
  • Distributors/Dealers: It is illegal for them to stock, sell and distribute any non-certified products. They need to ensure that all products in their supply chain are certified.
  • Integrators/Installers: They cannot legally install or supply any uncertified devices.

Common Reasons STQC Certification Gets Delayed or Rejected

Certification of CCTV cameras under STQC may be delayed or denied if the product, documentation, testing, or application fails to meet the required standards. They include:

  • Insufficient documentation: Absence of or inaccuracies in technical documentation, application, and manufacturing details may stall the certification process.
  • Testing failure: Failure to meet the required security and cybersecurity standards will prompt further testing or remedial action.
  • Problems with firmware and software: Issues such as security concerns with the firmware or software, firmware security needs or other security problems may arise.
  • Discrepancy with the model: The model submitted for testing does not match the actual product, resulting in compliance issues.
  • Inaccurate application details: Inaccuracies in product or company details, or any other information provided in the application, may stall the certification process.
  • Discrepancy in observations raised: STQC has raised concerns that the applicant has not addressed them within the stipulated time frame.

Conclusion 

STQC Certification is a compliance requirement for certain CCTV cameras in India. It ensures that all CCTV devices comply with the necessary security and cybersecurity standards. It is advisable to ensure that every model conforms to the specified criteria to prevent any difficulties during the process.

Through ERCS Private Limited, companies will be assisted in the whole process of obtaining STQC Certification in India. They will be guided on the criteria to be fulfilled, documentation to be submitted, and testing, among other compliance matters.

Contact ERCS today for expert guidance to make your STQC certification process simpler and smoother.

FAQs for STQC Certification for CCTV Cameras

Q1.Is STQC certification mandatory for all CCTV cameras in India?
Ans: Yes. From April 1, 2026, all CCTV cameras available for sale/import/installation in India will have to comply with MeitY's cybersecurity Essential Requirements and be STQC-certified.

Q2.How long does the STQC certification process take for a CCTV camera?
Ans: Typically, it takes around 6 to 10 weeks from submission of technical documents to issuance of the STQC certificate, depending on the preparation of the technical documents, the availability of the test facility, and the addressing of any observations.

Q3.How much will the STQC certification cost for a CCTV camera?
Ans: Cost depends on the number of models, the firmware versions to be tested, and whether a manufacturing facility audit is required. Application fees are submitted online through the BharatKosh portal; testing fees depend on the scope and will be known after application submission. Please contact STQC or our Certification Partner for a quotation based on your product.

Q4.How long is the STQC certificate valid for?
Ans: A certificate for a CCTV camera issued by STQC will be valid for 3 years from the date of issue, after which the renewal process must be initiated.

Q5.How can I determine whether the CCTV camera is truly STQC-certified?
Ans: Use the "Verify Your Certificate" option on the official STQC portal. Enter the Certificate Number, Type of Certificate, and Date of Issue to confirm the validity before purchasing/installing the device.