What is an FMCS Scheme?
Every country has its own laws and regulations regarding imports to maintain market assurance and confidence.
Likewise, the Indian government offers certifications to ensure the safety and reliability of products brought into the country. For goods producers outside of India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) administers the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS). International producers wishing to sell their goods in India must obtain this license confirming that they fulfil quality, safety, and reliability requirements. In India, maintaining product quality standards and safeguarding consumer interests depend heavily on the FMCS.
Launched in 2000, the program is designed for foreign applicants and producers who are authorized to use the ISI mark within six months. The program assists overseas producers in the certification process, helping them avoid unnecessary testing and certification, ensuring recognized international standards, increased credibility, and smooth entry into the Indian market.
Who can apply for a license under FMCS?
Foreign applicants should fulfill the following critical requirements:
- The manufacturing unit must be located outside of India.
- Ensure that all products conform to the requirements of the applicable Indian Standards Specification (ISS).
- All foreign manufacturers will be considered ‘large scale’ as per BIS FMCS norms.
- The applicant shall confirm readiness for the factory inspection (including English translator, transport, etc., for the BIS officer).
- All manufacturing machinery and testing facilities as per ISS requirements must be available at the factory premises.
- The applicant must accept the Scheme of Testing and Inspection (SIT) and annual marking fee.
- Quality Control Personnel (QCI) must be technically qualified to perform ISS testing.
- Safe deposition of the BIS officer's sealed sample to the designated lab and remittance of testing charges are the manufacturer's responsibility.
- Payments are made in USD. (SAARC applicants can pay in INR with GST or USD).
- Must nominate an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
- A Performance Bank Guarantee (PBG) of USD 10,000 (from an RBI-approved bank branch in India) is required after license grant.
- Separate applications must be submitted for each product/IS standard and each factory address.
Note: A BIS license is granted initially for one year and up to two years.
Eligibility Criteria for Acquiring FMCS License
These are the core pillars one needs to fulfill while applying for FMCS:
1. Manufacturer Status
Only foreign manufacturers, not importers or traders, are eligible for the FMCS.
2. Standards Compliance
Items must strictly adhere to the pertinent Indian Standards (IS) specified by BIS.
3. Authorized Representative
The application process requires an Indian resident to act as the AIR.
4. Factory Inspection
The overseas manufacturing facility is thoroughly inspected by BIS officials.
5. Testing Requirement
Products must pass testing exclusively in laboratories approved by BIS.
6. Certification Mark
The BIS Standard Mark (ISI) may only be applied by authorized producers.
Mandatory Product List for BIS (ISI) Certification for Foreign Manufacturers
The BIS Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) applies to all products notified under the BIS Certification Scheme (Scheme-I) that are manufactured outside India. FMCS is designed specifically for overseas manufacturers seeking to export regulated products to the Indian market. The scheme covers a wide range of product categories, including steel products, cement, electrical appliances, chemicals, automotive components, pressure cookers, LPG valves, household goods, construction materials, and many other products notified under Quality Control Orders (QCOs).
View BIS FMCS mandatory products List to check whether your product is covered.
Documents Required for Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme
Ensure you have the following documentation ready to streamline your FMCS application:
- Application Form: Fully completed FMCS application.
- Proof of Legal Identity: Incorporation certificate and business registration.
- Authorized Representative Details: Authorization letter for the Indian company/person with address proof.
- Factory Layout: Complete plant layout and manufacturing process flow.
- Quality Control Documents: List of QC apparatus, procedures, and personnel qualifications.
- Test Reports: Issued by a BIS-recognized laboratory certifying conformity.
- Product Details: Technical specs, drawings, and raw material utilization.
- BIS Standard Mark Agreement: Signed agreement regarding the use of the ISI mark.
- Factory Inspection Support: Travel and logistics details for BIS officials.
- Regulatory Approvals: Any additional export certifications required.
Timeline and Renewal
What is the duration/timeline for getting certified?
The BIS FMCS certification process generally takes 8–12 weeks.
1-2 Wks
Application Review2-4 Wks
Factory Inspection4-6 Wks
Product Testing2-3 Wks
Final BIS Review
How do I renew the BIS license under FMCS?
A BIS license can be renewed for up to five years by filing a renewal application form with supporting documents and the requisite fees. To include a new variety, grade, type, or class in the existing license, you must submit:
- Original test report (Tested in a BIS-recognized lab)
- In-house test report
- Details of testing equipment
- Inclusion fee
Advantages of BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturers
Role of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) / ERCS
To obtain a BIS FMCS Certification, foreign applicants must designate an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to conduct business in India. A local office is crucial. The AIR is responsible for organizing and submitting certification applications as your local agent.
Key Responsibilities & Requirements for an AIR:
- Must be a resident Indian.
- Can represent only one manufacturing firm under BIS schemes.
- Must have no conflict of interest regarding third-party lab testing.
- Must be technically qualified (graduate) to understand the BIS Act, 2016.
- Must declare consent to be legally responsible for compliance via an indemnity bond.
- BIS must be informed in advance of any change in the AIR or address.
As an established compliance consultant, ERCS Private Limited assists in obtaining FMCS certifications, acting as your guide or designated AIR to guarantee a seamless process with minimal delays.
Conclusion
Since products must satisfy Indian safety and quality standards, importation requires a BIS certificate. Consequently, product testing, inspections, and application filing are necessary. These procedures keep dangerous products off the market, increase consumer confidence, and prevent legal hurdles. Working with a trusted partner ensures importers and foreign manufacturers meet all requirements effectively.
