The ISI certification scheme primarily applies to products that directly impact consumer safety, health, and infrastructure. These include electrical appliances, industrial equipment, cement, steel products, pressure cookers, LPG cylinders, household electronics, automotive components, and various construction materials. The objective of the BIS ISI certificate is to protect consumers from substandard goods and ensure consistency in product quality across India.
Manufacturers—both domestic and foreign—are required to obtain the BIS ISI certificate for products notified under the mandatory certification list. The process begins with identifying the applicable Indian Standard for the product. Once identified, the manufacturer submits an application to BIS along with technical details, product specifications, factory information, and required documents. A key step in the certification process is product testing, which must be conducted in a BIS-recognized laboratory to verify compliance with the relevant standard.
After successful testing, BIS officials conduct a factory inspection to assess manufacturing capability, quality control systems, testing facilities, and adherence to standard operating procedures. This inspection ensures that the manufacturer can consistently produce goods that meet Indian Standards. Upon satisfactory evaluation of test reports and inspection findings, BIS grants the ISI license, allowing the manufacturer to affix the ISI mark on approved products.
The BIS ISI certificate is not a one-time approval. License holders must maintain ongoing compliance through regular surveillance audits, periodic product testing, and timely renewal of the license. Any deviation from prescribed standards may lead to suspension or cancellation of the ISI license. Therefore, maintaining robust quality management systems is essential for continued certification.
For foreign manufacturers, obtaining a BIS ISI certificate involves additional steps under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS). These manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to coordinate with BIS and ensure regulatory compliance in India.
In today’s competitive market, the BIS ISI certificate not only ensures legal compliance but also enhances brand credibility and consumer trust. Products bearing the ISI mark are perceived as safe, reliable, and high in quality, giving businesses a strong advantage in both public and private procurement.
About Agile Regulatory
Agile Regulatory is a trusted regulatory consultancy specializing in BIS ISI certification and other compliance services in India. With deep industry expertise and a client-focused approach, Agile Regulatory assists manufacturers at every stage—from standard identification and documentation to product testing, factory inspection coordination, and post-certification compliance. Their end-to-end support helps businesses achieve faster approvals, reduce regulatory risks, and ensure seamless entry into the Indian market