BIS Registration (CRS) for Smart Card Readers – IS 13252 (PART 1)

The BIS CRS registration of Smart Card Readers under Scheme II is mandatory in India, as required by the Electronics and Information Technology Goods Order. BIS Registration ensures that electronic products sold in India meet the necessary safety and quality standards. Without this registration, Smart Card Readers cannot be legally sold or imported in the Indian market.

 

A smart card reader is a hardware device that reads data from a smart card, which has an embedded microchip for secure storage and processing, enabling secure transactions, authentication, and data exchange for things like banking, ID verification, and access control, by connecting physically or wirelessly to a computer or system.  

Note: According to the recent Central Government update, Indian Standard 13252 (Part 1) has been superseded by IS/IEC 62368 (Part 1). To know more, connect with the ERCS Team.

 

Key Specifications of Smart Card Readers under CRS Scheme

Key functions include secure ID verification, payment processing, and access control, relying on secure chip communication:-

• This feature quickly reads data from smart cards for efficient transactions.
• It supports encryption and secure authentication to protect sensitive information.
• It works with various types of smart cards (e.g., ATM, ID, access cards) that is multi card compatibility
• Small footprint with sturdy construction for long-lasting use due to its durable design.
• Easy to install via USB or other interfaces without complex setup.
• Energy-efficient operation suitable for continuous use.
• It maintains accurate and consistent readings even under heavy usage.
• Meets BIS CRS and international standards for electronics safety.

 

Key Highlights for Smart Card Readers IS 13252 Part-1 Under CRS

It helps protect digital identity and enables safe transactions. Features that are as follows:-

• Secure Data Transfer to protect sensitive information with encryption.
• Authentication is used for secure logins, payments, and access control.
• Digital Signingis to prevent data tampering during transactions.
• To work with USB, Bluetooth, and other interfaces.
• Include High Security to reduce fraud and unauthorised access.
• Wide Use, i.e., banking, healthcare, government, transport, and IT.

 

BIS QCO Update for Smart Card Readers

Under the Electronics and Information Goods order, 2021, updated through a QCO (Quality Control Order), 22 January 2026, all Electronic goods categorised under this order are required to fall in line with the applicable Indian Safety Standards, including PoS Terminals. The products must undergo testing and obtain certification from the BIS and display the BIS Standard Mark. The purveying of this order comes into force after six months from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

 

Benefits of the BIS CRS Certificate for Smart Card Readers

Below, you can go through the benefits of BIS CRS Registration of the Smart Card Reader: 

• Legal Appliance and Market Access: Registration is mandatory under the Compulsory Registration Scheme(CRS) for electronic products in India. This allows Manufacturers to sell, import, and distribute their devices legally, ensuring smooth customs processes and reducing the risk of penalties.
• Quality Assurance and Safety: It guarantees that smart card readers meet indian safety standards, by reducing the risk of electrical hazards and technical problems.
• Enhanced Brand Credibility: BIS Mark Serves as a seal of quality by increasing consumer confidence,e that ppotentially leading to increased sales.
• Competitive Edge: Certified products can differentiate themselves in the market.
  Risk Mitigation: Compliance with Safety Regulations helps manufacturers reduce liability risk.

 

Essential Documents for BIS CRS Registration Certificate in India

The following documentations need to be submitted by the manufacturers to apply for BIS certification in the Indian Market.

• Application form.  
• Description of the Manufacturing.  
• Device Quality Control Plan. 
• The scope of Business License (English Translation + Local Language)
• Test report from a BIS-accredited laboratory.  
• Factory layout and equipment.  
• Proof of business registration.  
• Product specifications and description. 
• Declaration of conformance to Indian Standards
• Proof of Authorised Indian Representative (AIR)
• Photo ID of AIR or signatory

 

Applicable test parameters for Smart Card Readers IS 13252 Part 1

Applicable Test Parameters (IS 13252 Part 1):

• Protection against Electric Shock:- Ensures that the device is properly insulated, grounded, and keeps hazardous parts separate.
• Power Supply Performance: Tests the device’s safe operation with various power sources, including USB.
• Temperature Rise Limits: Checks temperatures during normal operation to ensure they do not exceed safe limits.
• Fire Safety: Uses fire-resistant materials and ensures there’s enough airflow.
• Stability and Mechanical Strength: Test the device’s durability.
• Construction Requirements: Checking for sharp edges or parts that could cause injury.
• Component Compliance: verifies that key parts, like cables and circuit boards, meet necessary safety standards.

 

Process of BIS CRS Certification in India

The steps for registering with the BIS differ for Indian manufacturers and foreign manufacturers. Let’s go over the steps for registration:- 

Process for a Foreign Manufacturer:  
   
The steps for registering with the BIS-CRS are detailed below:  

• Nominate an Indian Representative who shall act on behalf of the manufacturer.  
• Account registration on the BIS Portal
• Proceed to fill out the application form online.  
• Testing of Samples in a BIS-approved laboratory and test report upload on the BIS Portal.
• Payment and Submission of Application 
• BIS will review your application.  
• If no query is raised, BIS will grant the license. 

 

Process for Domestic manufacturers:

The steps from the domestic manufacturer's perspective:    

• Account registration on the BIS Portal.
• Proceed to fill out the application form online.  
• Testing of Samples in a BIS-approved laboratory and test report upload on the BIS Portal.
• Payment and Submission of Application.
• BIS will review your application.  
• If no query is raised, BIS will grant the license.

 

Fees for BIS CRS Registration in India for Smart Card Readers

ERCS Private Limited Simplifies the complex process of CRS Registration. That is why we are the  top CRS Consultant in India because: 

ERCS Private Limited’s Contribution to Product Registration

They provide comprehensive support from initial assessment to final approval, reducing risks and speeding up market access for the brand as per IS 13252 Part 1:-

• BIS Expertise: ERCS has strong knowledge of BIS rules, Indian Standards, testing, and inspections - helping you avoid mistakes.
• End-to-End Support: From selecting the right IS standard to testing, application filing, inspections, and renewals, manages the full process.
• Experienced Team: A skilled team of engineers and compliance experts ensures faster approvals and hassle-free processes.
• Practical Compliance Guidance: Helps you understand and meet BIS requirements, not just complete paperwork.
• Regulatory Updates: Keeps you informed about BIS rule changes and Quality Control Orders.
• Global Support: Assists foreign manufacturers in a smooth entry into the Indian market.