BIS Certification Scheme I: Process, Requirements, Documents, Benefits & Validity (2026)

Author : BIS Certification | Published On : 14 Nov 2026

BIS Certification Scheme I is a product certification scheme introduced by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. It allows manufacturers to obtain a licence to use or apply the Standard Mark, commonly known as the ISI Mark, on products that conform to the applicable Indian Standards.

Under Scheme I, BIS evaluates the manufacturer's production facilities, manufacturing processes, quality control systems and testing capabilities. Product samples are also tested to verify whether they meet the relevant Indian Standard.

This scheme is primarily designed for manufacturers who want to demonstrate that their products meet Indian quality, safety and performance requirements. It applies to both domestic and foreign manufacturers, subject to the applicable certification requirements.

Scheme I is particularly important for products covered under mandatory Quality Control Orders (QCOs). However, not every product requires compulsory BIS certification. Manufacturers can also apply voluntarily where the relevant certification route is available.

What Is the Main Purpose of BIS Scheme I?

The main purpose of Scheme I is to ensure that products manufactured in India or abroad meet the requirements specified in the relevant Indian Standards.

Its major objectives include:

• Ensuring product quality and consistency.

• Protecting consumers from unsafe and substandard products.

• Establishing confidence in the quality of certified products.

• Ensuring manufacturers follow proper quality control procedures.

• Promoting standardisation across different industries.

• Supporting compliance with applicable government regulations.

• Reducing the chances of defective products reaching the market.

Which Products Are Covered Under BIS Certification Scheme I?

Scheme I covers products for which BIS has established an applicable Indian Standard and certification route. The products may belong to different industries, including electrical equipment, construction materials, household appliances, chemicals, steel products and other manufacturing sectors.

Some examples of products that may fall under Scheme I include:

• Cement

• Steel products

• Electrical cables

• Switches and accessories

• Household electrical appliances

• Pressure cookers

• Helmets

• Certain chemicals and industrial materials

• Water heaters

• PVC pipes and fittings

The exact products covered depend on the applicable Indian Standard and the relevant certification requirements.

Important: A product's inclusion in an Indian Standard does not automatically make BIS certification compulsory. Manufacturers should check the latest applicable QCO and BIS mandatory certification list before applying.

Who Can Apply for BIS Certification Scheme I?

Scheme I is intended for manufacturers who produce goods at an identified manufacturing premises and want to obtain a licence to use the BIS Standard Mark.

The following applicants may be eligible:

• Indian manufacturers operating manufacturing facilities in India.

• Foreign manufacturers producing goods outside India.

• Manufacturers with suitable production machinery and infrastructure.

• Manufacturers having the required product testing facilities or permitted testing arrangements.

• Businesses capable of maintaining consistent product quality.

• Manufacturers willing to follow BIS inspection, testing and surveillance requirements.

Importers, traders and distributors cannot independently obtain a manufacturer's Scheme I licence merely by purchasing products from another company. The certification application must relate to the actual manufacturing premises and applicable product.

What Are the Main Requirements for BIS Scheme I Certification?

Before applying for BIS Scheme I, manufacturers should ensure that their production facilities and products meet the necessary requirements.

The major requirements include:

Applicable Indian Standard: The manufacturer must identify the correct Indian Standard applicable to the product.

Manufacturing Infrastructure: The factory should have the machinery and equipment required for manufacturing the product.

Testing Facilities: The manufacturer must arrange the necessary testing equipment and facilities according to the applicable standard and BIS requirements.

Quality Control System: Appropriate quality control procedures should be implemented at different stages of production.

Product Testing: The product must demonstrate conformity with all applicable requirements of the relevant Indian Standard.

Inspection and Testing Plan: The manufacturer must follow the applicable Scheme of Inspection and Testing (SIT) and maintain the required quality records.

Factory Inspection: BIS assesses the manufacturing premises, production process, testing arrangements and quality control capabilities.

Which Documents Are Required for BIS Scheme I Certification?

Manufacturers need to submit documents related to their business, manufacturing premises, machinery, testing facilities and product details.

The commonly required documents include:

1. Business registration certificate.

2. Factory address proof.

3. Manufacturing unit details.

4. List of manufacturing machinery.

5. List of testing equipment.

6. Factory layout and manufacturing process flowchart.

7. Details of raw materials used.

8. Quality control personnel details.

9. Calibration certificates of testing equipment.

10. Product test reports, as applicable.

11. Scheme of Inspection and Testing (SIT).

12. Authorisation letter for the application.

13. Details of the applicable Indian Standard.

14. Brand name and trademark documents, where applicable.

15. Nomination of an Authorised Indian Representative (AIR) for foreign manufacturers.

The exact documentation requirements may vary depending on the product, applicable Indian Standard and BIS guidelines.

What Is the Step-by-Step Process for BIS Scheme I Certification?

The BIS Scheme I certification process involves several stages, starting with identifying the applicable Indian Standard and ending with the grant of a licence.

Step 1: Identify the Applicable Indian Standard

The manufacturer must first identify the Indian Standard applicable to the product. It is important to select the correct standard because product testing and certification requirements depend on it.

Step 2: Check Manufacturing and Testing Facilities

The manufacturer should evaluate the available machinery, production facilities and testing equipment. Any outsourced manufacturing activities and permitted external testing arrangements must also be identified.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents

The applicant must prepare the necessary business documents, factory details, machinery lists, testing equipment details, product information and other documents required by BIS.

Step 4: Conduct Product Testing

The manufacturer must ensure that the product is tested against all applicable requirements of the relevant Indian Standard. Testing may be conducted in the factory or through a BIS-recognised or otherwise eligible third-party laboratory, depending on the applicable requirements.

Step 5: Submit the BIS Application

The manufacturer can apply for a licence using Form V under Scheme I. The application and supporting documents are submitted to BIS through the applicable application procedure.

Step 6: Factory Inspection by BIS

BIS officials visit the manufacturing premises to assess the manufacturing infrastructure, production process, quality control arrangements and testing capabilities. They may also draw product samples for independent laboratory testing.

Step 7: Product Sample Verification

The samples collected during the inspection are tested to verify conformity with the relevant Indian Standard. BIS reviews the test reports and inspection findings before making its decision.

Step 8: Grant of BIS Licence

If the manufacturer fulfils the applicable requirements and BIS is satisfied with the assessment and test results, a licence may be granted. The manufacturer can then use the BIS Standard Mark within the approved scope and subject to the licence conditions.

BIS provides different options for processing applications under Scheme I. The applicable option depends on the circumstances and requirements of the application.

What Are the Different Options for Granting a Licence Under Scheme I?

Under Scheme I, BIS provides different procedures for granting a licence depending on the testing arrangements and application circumstances.

The main options include:

• Option 1: The manufacturer submits the application and required documents. BIS conducts a factory assessment and draws samples for testing in a third-party laboratory.

• Option 2: Where complete testing facilities are available, BIS may conduct factory assessment and product testing at the manufacturing premises.

• Option 3: The manufacturer submits a complete third-party laboratory test report with the application. BIS verifies the manufacturing process and draws verification samples during the factory visit.

The availability and conditions of these options are governed by the latest BIS guidelines for grant of licence.

What Are the Fees for BIS Scheme I Certification?

The cost of BIS Scheme I certification depends on the applicable Indian Standard, product category, testing requirements, inspection arrangements and other applicable charges.

The major cost components include:

• Application fee.

• Processing fee, where applicable.

• Product testing charges.

• Factory inspection charges.

• Special inspection charges, if applicable.

• Licence fee.

• Annual marking fee.

• Additional charges for scope extensions or other services, where applicable.

There is no single fixed total cost for every product under Scheme I. Manufacturers should check the latest BIS fee schedule and applicable product-specific requirements before preparing their certification budget.

How Much Time Does BIS Scheme I Certification Take?

The timeline for BIS Scheme I certification depends on the complexity of the product, availability of testing facilities, completion of documents, factory inspection scheduling and laboratory testing duration.

The major stages affecting the timeline include:

• Preparation of documents and application.

• Review of the application by BIS.

• Factory inspection.

• Product sample testing.

• Submission of additional information, if required.

• Final assessment and licence approval.

Products requiring longer-duration tests may take more time than products with relatively simple testing requirements. Therefore, manufacturers should not assume that every Scheme I application will be completed within the same timeframe.

What Is the Validity of a BIS Scheme I Licence?

A BIS licence under Scheme I is initially granted for a period of up to 2 years, subject to the applicable requirements and conditions.

Manufacturers must maintain product quality and comply with BIS requirements throughout the licence period. The licence can be renewed according to the applicable BIS renewal guidelines.

The validity and renewal conditions should always be checked against the latest applicable regulations and BIS instructions.

How Can Manufacturers Renew a BIS Scheme I Licence?

Manufacturers must apply for renewal before their existing BIS licence expires. The renewal process generally involves the following steps:

1. Submit the renewal application to BIS.

2. Pay the applicable renewal and other outstanding fees.

3. Provide the required production and marking fee records.

4. Maintain compliance with the relevant Indian Standard.

5. Submit any additional documents requested by BIS.

6. Cooperate with BIS inspections and surveillance activities, where required.

7. Obtain approval for renewal from BIS.

As per the applicable provisions, renewal may be granted for a period of up to 5 years, subject to fulfilment of the prescribed conditions.

What Is the Role of BIS Surveillance Under Scheme I?

BIS surveillance helps ensure that manufacturers continue to maintain the required product quality even after receiving certification.

BIS may conduct factory inspections and market surveillance to verify whether certified products continue to comply with the relevant Indian Standard.

Surveillance activities may include:

• Inspection of manufacturing premises.

• Verification of production records.

• Checking quality control procedures.

• Examination of testing equipment and calibration records.

• Collection of factory or market samples.

• Testing of collected samples in appropriate laboratories.

• Verification of proper use of the BIS Standard Mark.

If any non-conformity is identified, BIS may require corrective action and take appropriate action under the applicable regulations and licence conditions.

What Are the Benefits of BIS Certification Scheme I?

BIS Scheme I provides several advantages to manufacturers, consumers and businesses.

Improves Product Quality: It helps manufacturers maintain consistent product quality through standardised testing and quality control.

Builds Consumer Confidence: The BIS Standard Mark helps consumers identify products certified against applicable Indian Standards.

Supports Regulatory Compliance: It helps manufacturers meet compulsory certification requirements where a relevant QCO applies.

Improves Market Acceptance: BIS certification can improve product credibility and acceptance among buyers and business partners.

Encourages Manufacturing Standards: It promotes better manufacturing practices, testing procedures and quality management.

Supports Business Opportunities: Certification can help manufacturers meet the compliance requirements of customers, procurement processes and certain market opportunities.

What Is the Difference Between BIS Scheme I and Scheme II?

BIS Scheme I and Scheme II are two different product certification approaches under the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

Scheme I is generally associated with the traditional ISI Mark certification process, whereas Scheme II follows a registration-based approach for notified products.

What Happens If a Manufacturer Fails to Meet BIS Scheme I Requirements?

If a manufacturer fails to maintain product quality or violates licence conditions, BIS can take appropriate action under the BIS Act, Rules, Regulations and applicable certification guidelines.

Possible actions include:

• Issuing a notice for non-conformity.

• Requiring corrective actions.

• Conducting additional inspections.

• Suspending the licence.

• Cancelling the licence.

• Taking action for unauthorised use of the BIS Standard Mark.

Manufacturers should maintain proper production, testing and quality records to avoid compliance issues.

Conclusion

BIS Certification Scheme I plays an important role in ensuring that manufactured products meet the quality, safety and performance requirements specified by Indian Standards. It involves product testing, factory assessment, quality control verification and ongoing surveillance. Manufacturers should understand the applicable Indian Standard, documentation requirements and certification procedures before applying. Proper compliance helps businesses maintain product quality, fulfil mandatory certification requirements where applicable and build confidence among customers.

Frequently Asked Questions About BIS Certification Scheme I

1. Is BIS Scheme I mandatory for all products?

No. BIS Scheme I is not mandatory for every product. Compulsory certification applies when a product is covered under an applicable Quality Control Order or other relevant government notification.

2. Is BIS Scheme I the same as ISI Mark Certification?

Scheme I is the BIS conformity assessment scheme under which manufacturers can obtain a licence to use the ISI Mark on products conforming to the applicable Indian Standard.

3. Can foreign manufacturers apply for BIS Scheme I?

Yes. Foreign manufacturers can apply for Scheme I certification. They must fulfil the applicable requirements and nominate an authorised Indian representative based in India.

4. Is factory inspection compulsory under Scheme I?

Yes. Factory assessment is an important part of Scheme I, as BIS evaluates manufacturing infrastructure, production processes, quality control and testing arrangements.

5. Can a manufacturer apply for multiple products under Scheme I?

Manufacturers can apply for multiple products, subject to the applicable Indian Standards, product requirements and BIS application procedures. Separate applications may be required depending on the products and standards involved.

6. Can manufacturers use the ISI Mark before receiving a BIS licence?

No. Manufacturers cannot use the BIS Standard Mark without obtaining the appropriate licence and complying with its conditions.

7. What is Form V in BIS Scheme I?

Form V is the prescribed application form used by manufacturers to apply for a licence under Scheme I of Schedule II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

8. Does BIS Scheme I require product testing?

Yes. Product conformity must be established through the applicable testing procedure, which may involve factory testing, third-party laboratory testing or a combination of both.

9. What is SIT in BIS Scheme I?

SIT stands for Scheme of Inspection and Testing. It specifies the quality control and testing activities that a manufacturer must follow to maintain product conformity during production.

10. Can a BIS Scheme I licence be cancelled?

Yes. BIS may suspend or cancel a licence if the manufacturer fails to comply with applicable certification requirements, quality standards or licence conditions.