BIS FMCS Portal: Complete Registration & Application Guide for Foreign Manufacturers
What is BIS FMCS?
BIS FMCS (Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme) is a certification scheme operated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for foreign manufacturers who want to export certain products to India. Under this scheme, BIS grants a licence to eligible overseas manufacturers to use the Standard Mark (ISI Mark) on products that comply with the applicable Indian Standard (IS). The scheme has been in operation since 2000 and is administered by the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Department (FMCD) at BIS Headquarters in New Delhi. Electronics and IT products notified by MeitY are covered under the BIS CRS scheme instead of FMCS.
FMCS ensures that imported products meet the same Indian quality and safety requirements as products manufactured in India. Once the licence is granted, the foreign manufacturer can export certified products to the Indian market in accordance with BIS requirements.
What is the BIS FMCS Portal?
The BIS FMCS Portal is the official online platform provided by the Bureau of Indian Standards for managing the complete FMCS certification process. It allows foreign manufacturers to submit and manage their BIS licence applications digitally through the Manakonline system. Since 1 June 2026, FMCS applications are accepted online through the portal.
Using the FMCS Portal, manufacturers can -
- Register their company
- Submit a new FMCS application
- Upload required documents
- Nominate an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
- Pay applicable BIS fees
- Track the application status
- Receive observations from BIS
- Manage their licence after approval
The portal simplifies communication between the applicant and BIS by keeping all application-related activities in one secure online dashboard.
Why is FMCS Certification Mandatory?
FMCS certification is required only for products that have been made mandatory by the Government of India through a Quality Control Order (QCO). If a notified product is manufactured outside India and exported to the Indian market, the foreign manufacturer must obtain a valid BIS licence under FMCS before the product can be imported, sold, or distributed in India.
The main objectives of mandatory FMCS certification are -
- To ensure imported products comply with applicable Indian Standards (IS).
- To protect consumers by maintaining product quality and safety.
- To ensure foreign manufacturers meet the same compliance requirements as Indian manufacturers.
- To prevent the import and sale of non-compliant products covered under Quality Control Orders (QCOs).
- To allow certified manufacturers to legally use the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) on eligible products.
Important: FMCS certification is not mandatory for every imported product. It becomes mandatory only when the product is covered under a notified Quality Control Order (QCO) or other mandatory BIS certification requirements issued by the Government of India.
Who Needs FMCS Certification?
BIS FMCS Certification is required for foreign manufacturers who manufacture products outside India and intend to export them to the Indian market. The BIS licence is always issued to the foreign manufacturing unit, not to the importer, distributor, or trader. If the product is covered under a mandatory Quality Control Order (QCO) or another applicable BIS requirement, the foreign manufacturer must obtain an FMCS licence before the product can be imported, sold, or distributed in India.
FMCS certification is generally required by -
- Foreign manufacturers exporting regulated products to India.
- Overseas factories manufacturing products under their own brand.
- Brand owners who own manufacturing facilities outside India.
- Manufacturers supplying products to Indian importers or distributors.
- Companies establishing long-term business in the Indian market.
Who cannot apply?
The following entities cannot apply for an FMCS licence in their own name -
- Importers
- Traders
- Dealers
- Distributors
- Retailers
The application must always be submitted by the foreign manufacturer, and where applicable, an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) must be nominated.
Products Covered Under FMCS
The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) covers products for which an Indian Standard (IS) exists and which are eligible for certification under the BIS Standard Mark Scheme. The scheme applies to almost all product categories except Electronics and IT Products notified under the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).
Depending on the applicable Indian Standard and Government notifications, products under FMCS may include -
- BIS FMCS Certification for Cement and Cement Products
- BIS FMCS Certification for Household Electrical Appliances
- BIS FMCS Certification for Steel and Iron Products
- BIS FMCS Certification for Pressure Cookers
- BIS FMCS Certification for LPG Valves and Cylinders
- BIS FMCS Certification for Automotive Components
- BIS FMCS Certification for Chemicals and Industrial Materials
- BIS FMCS Certification for Food Contact Materials
- BIS FMCS Certification for Construction Materials
- BIS FMCS Certification for Safety Equipment
- BIS FMCS Certification for Industrial Machinery
- BIS FMCS Certification for Consumer Products covered under mandatory BIS certification
Important: Not every product manufactured outside India requires FMCS certification. It becomes mandatory only when the product is covered under a notified Quality Control Order (QCO) or another mandatory BIS certification requirement. Before applying, manufacturers should verify whether their product is included in the latest mandatory certification list issued by BIS and the Government of India.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for BIS FMCS Certification, the applicant must satisfy the eligibility conditions prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
A foreign manufacturer is generally eligible if -
- The product is manufactured outside India.
- The product conforms to the applicable Indian Standard (IS).
- The manufacturing facility has adequate production and quality control systems.
- Necessary in-house testing facilities are available, or testing arrangements comply with BIS requirements.
- An Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) is nominated wherever required.
- All prescribed application forms, supporting documents, and applicable fees are submitted.
- The manufacturer agrees to comply with the BIS Act, Rules, Regulations, and licence conditions.
BIS also evaluates the manufacturing premises, quality management system, testing facilities, and product compliance before granting the licence.
Benefits of FMCS Certification
Obtaining BIS FMCS Certification provides several commercial and regulatory advantages for foreign manufacturers exporting products to India.
- Legal Access to the Indian Market: Manufacturers can legally export and sell products in India where BIS certification is mandatory.
- Permission to Use the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark): After the licence is granted, eligible products can bear the BIS Standard Mark in accordance with BIS requirements.
- Compliance with Indian Standards: Certification demonstrates that the product complies with the applicable Indian Standard (IS), helping manufacturers meet India's regulatory requirements.
- Improved Customer Confidence: The BIS Standard Mark increases trust among Indian buyers, distributors, government organizations, and consumers by indicating compliance with recognised quality and safety standards.
- Easier Market Expansion: A valid FMCS licence helps foreign manufacturers enter and expand in the Indian market with greater confidence while supporting long-term business relationships with Indian importers and distributors.
- Better Business Reputation: Compliance with BIS requirements strengthens a manufacturer's reputation for quality, safety, and regulatory compliance, making it easier to compete in India's regulated market.
Note: FMCS certification does not guarantee product performance or commercial success. It confirms that the certified product complies with the applicable Indian Standard and the conditions specified by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
Portal Registration
Before starting the BIS FMCS application process, foreign manufacturers should complete a few essential preparations. Having the required information and documents ready helps ensure a smooth registration and reduces delays during application review.
Prerequisites Before Applying
Before registering on the BIS FMCS Portal, make sure you meet the basic requirements prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
- Product Eligibility: Confirm that your product requires BIS FMCS Certification and is covered under the applicable Indian Standard (IS) or a mandatory Quality Control Order (QCO).
- Manufacturing Facility: The product must be manufactured at a foreign manufacturing facility with adequate production capability and quality control systems.
- Applicable Indian Standard (IS): Identify the correct Indian Standard (IS) applicable to your product before submitting the application.
- Authorized Indian Representative (AIR): Where required under FMCS, appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) who will communicate with BIS on behalf of the foreign manufacturer.
- Technical Readiness: Ensure that your factory has the necessary manufacturing and testing facilities to demonstrate compliance with the applicable Indian Standard during the BIS assessment.
Before creating an account, keep the following ready -
- Official company email address
- Internet connection
- Scanned documents in the required format
- Authorized person responsible for the application
Preparing these items in advance helps complete the online registration process more efficiently.
Documents Required
BIS may require various documents during the FMCS application process. The exact documents depend on the product and applicable Indian Standard.
Commonly required documents include-
- CompanyDocuments -
- Company Registration Certificate
- Manufacturing Licence (if applicable)
- Factory Address Details
- Company Profile
- Product Documents -
- Product Specification
- Product Catalogue or Brochure
- Technical Drawings (if applicable)
- Applicable Indian Standard (IS) details
- Quality Documents -
- Quality Control Procedures
- Manufacturing Process Flow Chart
- In-house Testing Facilities Details
- Calibration Records (where applicable)
- AIR Documents -
- Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) nomination
- Authorization Letter
- AIR contact details
- Other Supporting Documents -
- Application Forms
- Declarations and Undertakings
- Previous Test Reports (if available)
- Additional documents requested by BIS
Note: BIS may ask for additional documents depending on the product category and applicable Indian Standard. Applicants should always refer to the latest BIS requirements before submitting the application.
Create an Account on the FMCS Portal
Foreign manufacturers must register on the official BIS FMCS Portal (Manakonline) before submitting an application.
- Visit the Official Portal Open the official BIS Manakonline portal and select the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) option.
- Select New Registration Click New Registration to create a new user account.
- Enter Company Information Provide : Company Name , Manufacturing Unit Name , Country , Factory Address , Official Email Address , Contact Number
- Verify Email An email verification link or OTP may be sent to the registered email address.
- Create Login Credentials Set : Username , Password , Security information (if applicable)
- Complete Registration After successful verification, your FMCS Portal account will be created and you can log in to begin the certification process.
Login to the Portal
After registration, manufacturers can access their account through the official FMCS Portal.
Login Process
- Open the official BIS FMCS (Manakonline) portal.
- Click Sign In.
- Enter your registered username or email address.
- Enter your password.
- Complete any security verification, if prompted.
- Click Login to access your dashboard.
After logging in, users can manage their FMCS applications and monitor certification activities from one place.
Portal Dashboard Overview
The FMCS Portal dashboard is the central workspace where manufacturers can manage every stage of the certification process.
- New Application: Start a fresh FMCS application for a new product or manufacturing unit.
- Draft Applications: Continue applications that were saved but not yet submitted.
- Submitted Applications: View all applications that have been successfully submitted to BIS.
- Application Status: Track the progress of each application, including document scrutiny, inspection, testing, observations, and licence processing.
- Document Management: Upload additional documents, replace files, or submit revised information requested by BIS.
- AIR Management: View and manage Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) details associated with the application.
- Fee Details: Check applicable fees and payment status.
- Notifications: Receive updates, observations, and communication from BIS regarding the application.
- Licence Management: After approval, access licence information, monitor validity, and initiate renewal when required.
- Important: The exact dashboard layout and available features may change as BIS updates the Manakonline FMCS Portal. Applicants should always rely on the latest instructions and user manuals published by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
Application Process
Once your account is successfully created on the BIS FMCS Portal, you can begin the online certification application. The application process is completed through the Manakonline FMCS Portal, where manufacturers provide company information, product details, supporting documents, and other information required by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
Start a New Application
After logging in to the FMCS Portal, navigate to the dashboard and select "New Application" to begin the certification process.
During this step, the portal will ask you to -
- Select the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).
- Choose the applicable product category.
- Confirm the manufacturing unit for which the licence is being requested.
- Proceed to the online application form.
Before moving to the next step, ensure that you have identified the correct product and the applicable Indian Standard (IS).
Tip: Start a separate application for each manufacturing location if required by BIS.
Fill Manufacturer Details
In this section, provide complete and accurate information about the foreign manufacturing unit.
Typical information includes -
- Company Information -
- Legal name of the manufacturer
- Factory name
- Registered office address
- Manufacturing unit address
- Country of manufacture
- Contact Information -
- Official email address
- Telephone number
- Website (if applicable)
- Manufacturing Information -
- Nature of manufacturing activities
- Production capacity
- Quality control facilities
- Factory ownership details
All information should match the supporting documents submitted with the application. Incorrect or incomplete information may result in queries from BIS.
Select Product & Indian Standard
This is one of the most important steps in the FMCS application process.
Applicants must -
- Select the product for which BIS certification is required.
- Identify the correct Indian Standard (IS) applicable to the product.
- Confirm that the selected standard matches the product specifications.
The applicable Indian Standard defines the technical, safety, and quality requirements that the product must meet before BIS certification can be granted.
Choosing the wrong Indian Standard can delay the application or require resubmission. Therefore, manufacturers should carefully verify the applicable standard before proceeding.
Upload Required Documents
After entering the application details, upload all supporting documents requested by the FMCS Portal.
Depending on the product and applicable Indian Standard, documents may include -
- Company Documents -
- Company Registration Certificate
- Factory Registration
- Manufacturing Licence (if applicable)
- Technical Documents -
- Product Specifications
- Technical Drawings
- Manufacturing Process Flow Chart
- Quality Control Procedures
- Product Documents -
- Product Catalogue
- Test Reports (if available)
- Product Labels or Marking Details
- AIR Documents -
- AIR Nomination Letter
- Authorization Documents
- Other Documents -
- Declarations
- Undertakings
- Any additional documents requested by BIS
Ensure that all uploaded files are clear, complete, and in the format specified on the portal.
Add Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
Under the FMCS scheme, foreign manufacturers are generally required to nominate an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to act as the official point of contact with BIS.
During this step, enter the AIR details, including -
- Name of the Authorized Indian Representative
- Company name (if applicable)
- Address in India
- Email address
- Contact number
Upload the required authorization documents and declarations as specified by BIS.
The AIR communicates with BIS, assists during the certification process, and helps coordinate regulatory requirements in India.
Review and Submit the Application
Before final submission, carefully review every section of the application.
Verify that -
- Manufacturer details are correct.
- Product information is accurate.
- The correct Indian Standard (IS) has been selected.
- All mandatory documents have been uploaded.
- AIR details are complete.
- There are no missing fields or errors.
Once you are satisfied that all information is accurate, submit the application through the FMCS Portal.
After successful submission, the portal generates an application reference number, which should be saved for future tracking and communication with BIS.
Pay Official BIS Fees
After submitting the application, pay the applicable BIS fees through the payment options available on the FMCS Portal.
Depending on the application, the payable fees may include -
- Application Fee
- Factory Inspection Charges
- Licence Fee
- Annual Licence Fee (where applicable)
- Marking Fee
- Other charges prescribed by BIS
Once the payment is successfully processed, the application moves to the next stage of review by BIS.
Important: The applicable fee structure is determined by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and may be revised from time to time. Applicants should always refer to the latest official BIS fee schedule available on the FMCS Portal before making payment.
After Submission
After the application is submitted and the prescribed fees are paid, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) begins evaluating the application. During this stage, BIS verifies the submitted information, assesses the manufacturing facility, reviews test reports, and determines whether the product complies with the applicable Indian Standard (IS). If any information is incomplete or clarification is required, BIS communicates with the applicant through the FMCS Portal.
Application Scrutiny by BIS
The first stage after submission is the application scrutiny. BIS officers review the application to ensure that all required information and documents have been provided correctly.
During the scrutiny process, BIS verifies -
- Manufacturer details
- Factory information
- Product details
- Applicable Indian Standard (IS)
- Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) details
- Supporting documents
- Payment status
If any information is missing or incorrect, BIS may issue observations requesting clarification or additional documents.
Only applications that successfully complete the scrutiny stage proceed to the next step.
Factory Inspection
Once the application is found satisfactory, BIS schedules an inspection of the foreign manufacturing facility.
During the inspection, BIS officials assess whether the factory is capable of consistently manufacturing products that comply with the applicable Indian Standard.
The inspection generally includes -
- Manufacturing Facilities: Verification of production equipment, manufacturing processes, and production capability.
- Quality Control System: Assessment of the factory's quality management practices and product consistency.
- Testing Facilities: Evaluation of in-house testing equipment and testing procedures to ensure compliance with the relevant Indian Standard.
- Production Records: Review of manufacturing records, quality records, calibration records, and inspection reports where applicable.
The inspection helps BIS determine whether the manufacturing unit can consistently produce conforming products.
Product Testing
Product testing is an important part of the FMCS certification process.
BIS requires product samples to be tested against the applicable Indian Standard (IS). Testing may be carried out in BIS-recognized laboratories or as specified by BIS.
The purpose of testing is to verify that the product satisfies all applicable technical, safety, and quality requirements.
If the test results comply with the relevant Indian Standard, the application proceeds to the next stage. If non-conformities are identified, BIS may request corrective action or additional testing before continuing the certification process.
Reply to BIS Observations
During the evaluation process, BIS may issue observations if additional information, revised documents, or clarifications are required.
Common reasons for observations include -
- Missing documents
- Incorrect information in the application
- Technical clarifications
- Incomplete test reports
- Product-related queries
- AIR-related clarifications
Manufacturers should carefully review each observation and submit the required response through the FMCS Portal within the specified time.
Providing complete and timely responses helps avoid unnecessary delays in the certification process.
Licence Approval Process
After successful completion of document scrutiny, factory inspection, product testing, and resolution of all observations, BIS conducts the final technical review.
If all applicable requirements are satisfied, BIS grants the FMCS licence to the foreign manufacturer.
The licence authorizes the manufacturer to use the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) on the certified product in accordance with the licence conditions and applicable Indian Standard.
The licence is issued only after BIS is satisfied that the product and manufacturing facility comply with all relevant requirements under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme.
Download the FMCS Licence
After the licence is granted, manufacturers can log in to the FMCS Portal to access their licence information.
Depending on the portal functionality, users can -
- View licence details
- Download the licence or licence information, where available
- Check licence validity
- Access product scope covered under the licence
- Monitor future renewal requirements
Manufacturers should keep a copy of the licence and ensure continued compliance with BIS requirements throughout the licence period.
Important: Grant of an FMCS licence does not end the manufacturer's responsibilities. Licence holders must continue to comply with the applicable Indian Standard, licence conditions, and any surveillance or compliance requirements specified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
Licence Management
Obtaining a BIS FMCS licence is not the final step. After the licence is granted, foreign manufacturers must continue to comply with the conditions specified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This includes renewing the licence before expiry, requesting modifications when required, cooperating during surveillance activities, and ensuring continuous compliance with the applicable Indian Standard (IS).
Licence Renewal
A BIS FMCS licence is valid for the period specified by BIS. To continue manufacturing and exporting certified products to India without interruption, manufacturers should apply for licence renewal before the licence expires.
The renewal process generally includes -
- Logging in to the FMCS Portal.
- Selecting the Licence Renewal option.
- Reviewing and updating company and product information, if required.
- Uploading any revised documents requested by BIS.
- Paying the applicable renewal fee.
- Submitting the renewal application online.
BIS reviews the renewal application and may request additional information before extending the licence validity.
Tip: Apply well before the expiry date to avoid delays in business operations.
Scope Modification
If there are changes after the licence has been granted, manufacturers may need to request a scope modification through the FMCS Portal.
Scope modification may be required when there are changes such as -
- Addition of a new product model or variant.
- Inclusion of an additional Indian Standard (IS).
- Changes to the manufacturing facility.
- Updates to the factory address or company details.
- Changes in the Authorized Indian Representative (AIR), where applicable.
Manufacturers should submit the required documents and supporting information for BIS review.
The requested modification becomes effective only after approval by BIS.
Surveillance Inspection
Even after granting the licence, BIS may conduct surveillance inspections to verify that the certified products continue to comply with the applicable Indian Standard and licence conditions.
During surveillance activities, BIS may -
- Inspect the manufacturing facility.
- Review production and quality control records.
- Verify testing facilities and equipment.
- Check product marking and labelling.
- Collect product samples for independent testing, where required.
Surveillance inspections help ensure that product quality and compliance are maintained throughout the licence period.
Manufacturers are expected to cooperate fully during these inspections and provide any information requested by BIS.
Maintaining Compliance
Holding a BIS FMCS licence requires ongoing compliance with all applicable BIS requirements. Manufacturers should maintain consistent product quality and keep their manufacturing processes aligned with the relevant Indian Standard.
To maintain compliance, manufacturers should -
- Continue manufacturing products according to the applicable Indian Standard (IS).
- Maintain effective quality control and testing procedures.
- Keep production, inspection, and calibration records up to date.
- Inform BIS of significant changes related to the manufacturing unit, product, or Authorized Indian Representative (AIR), where applicable.
- Comply with all licence conditions and directions issued by BIS.
- Cooperate during inspections, surveillance, and any compliance verification activities.
Failure to comply with BIS requirements may lead to regulatory action, including suspension or cancellation of the FMCS licence in accordance with the BIS Act, Rules, Regulations, and licence conditions.
Important: A BIS FMCS licence is an ongoing compliance obligation, not a one-time approval. Continuous adherence to BIS requirements is essential to retain the validity of the licence and continue supplying certified products to the Indian market.
Resources
The Resources section helps foreign manufacturers access important information related to the BIS Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS). From official forms and guidelines to frequently asked questions, these resources make it easier to understand the certification process and stay compliant with BIS requirements.
Forms & Downloads
The BIS FMCS Portal provides various forms, declarations, and supporting documents required during the certification process. Applicants should always use the latest versions published by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
Commonly available documents include-
- Application Forms -
- FMCS Application Form
- Licence-related forms
- Renewal application forms
- AIR Documents -
- Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) Authorization Letter
- AIR Declaration
- Nomination Forms
- Declarations & Undertakings -
- Manufacturer's Declaration
- Undertaking Forms
- Product Compliance Declarations
- User Resources -
- FMCS User Manual
- Application Guidelines
- Document Checklists
- Other Downloads -
- Fee Schedule
- Relevant BIS Notifications
- Product-specific Instructions (where applicable)
Tip: Always download forms directly from the official BIS website or FMCS Portal to ensure you are using the latest prescribed format.
Official BIS Guidelines
The Bureau of Indian Standards publishes official guidelines to help foreign manufacturers understand the FMCS certification requirements.
The official guidance generally covers -
- Overview of the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)
- Eligibility requirements
- Products covered under FMCS
- Application procedure
- Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
- Factory inspection requirements
- Product testing requirements
- Licence conditions
- Renewal process
- Applicable fees
- BIS notifications and updates
Manufacturers should regularly review these guidelines because BIS may update procedures, documentation requirements, or certification rules from time to time.
Recommendation: Before submitting an application, always refer to the latest official BIS guidelines available on the BIS website or Manakonline Portal.
How EVTL India Supports Foreign Manufacturers
Navigating the FMCS certification process can be challenging, especially for manufacturers applying for the first time. EVTL India provides end-to-end consultancy services to help foreign manufacturers understand BIS requirements and complete the certification process efficiently.
Our support includes -
- FMCS Eligibility Assessment: We evaluate whether your product falls under the FMCS scheme and identify the applicable Indian Standard (IS).
- Documentation Support: We help prepare, review, and organize the technical documents and application forms required by BIS.
- AIR Assistance: We guide manufacturers in appointing an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) and preparing the necessary authorization documents.
- Application Filing Support: We assist with completing the online application on the BIS FMCS Portal and reviewing the information before submission.
- Technical Coordination: We help coordinate with testing laboratories and provide guidance on product testing requirements.
- BIS Query Management: If BIS raises observations or requests additional information, we assist in preparing accurate responses and supporting documents.
- Factory Inspection Guidance: We help manufacturers understand the BIS factory inspection process and prepare the required records and documentation.
- Renewal & Ongoing Compliance: After the licence is granted, we continue to support manufacturers with licence renewals, scope modifications, and ongoing compliance requirements.
- Disclaimer: EVTL India is an independent BIS certification consultancy. We assist foreign manufacturers with the FMCS certification process. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the only authority responsible for granting, renewing, modifying, suspending, or cancelling an FMCS licence.