In India, product quality and consumer safety are strictly governed by regulatory frameworks. One of the most significant certifications for electronics and IT products is the BIS CRS Certification. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) introduced the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) in 2012 to ensure that electronic and IT products sold in the Indian market meet safety, performance, and reliability benchmarks.
Under this scheme, manufacturers must complete BIS CRS Registration before launching their products in India. The certification not only protects consumers but also enhances the reputation of manufacturers by showcasing compliance with Indian standards.
This blog provides an in-depth look into BIS CRS Certification, its registration process, benefits, and why it has become an essential requirement for the electronics industry.
The Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) was launched by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) in collaboration with BIS. It mandates that notified electronic and IT products must comply with Indian standards and carry the BIS registration mark before being sold in the Indian market.
Unlike the ISI mark, which applies to a wide range of products including industrial and consumer goods, CRS specifically targets electronics, IT hardware, and renewable energy equipment.
Some product categories under CRS include:
Mobile phones and smartphones
Laptops, tablets, and notebooks
LED lamps and lighting products
Power adapters and chargers
Smartwatches and wearable devices
Set-top boxes, routers, and IT peripherals
By obtaining BIS CRS Certification, manufacturers assure consumers that their products are tested, safe, and reliable.
The Indian electronics market is rapidly growing, with increasing imports and domestic production. To maintain quality standards and avoid substandard or unsafe products, BIS CRS registration plays a vital role.
Consumer Safety – Ensures that electronic products meet safety standards and are free from hazards.
Legal Compliance – CRS Certification is mandatory for listed products; selling uncertified items can lead to penalties and product bans.
Market Access – A valid BIS CRS Registration allows both domestic and foreign manufacturers to sell products in India.
Brand Reputation – CRS-certified products earn consumer trust and enhance brand credibility.
Government Support – Aligns with initiatives like Make in India and Digital India, promoting quality manufacturing.
Securing BIS CRS Certification involves several structured steps. While it may seem complex, following a systematic approach can ensure smooth registration.
Check whether your product falls under the CRS notified list issued by BIS and MeitY. Only products listed under CRS require compulsory registration.
Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) who will coordinate with BIS for registration and compliance.
Products must be tested in a BIS-recognized laboratory as per the applicable Indian Standard (IS). Testing ensures compliance with safety and quality parameters.
Manufacturers need to submit an application through the BIS portal, attaching test reports, factory details, and required documents.
BIS officials review the application and verify whether all compliance parameters are met.
If the application is successful, BIS grants the CRS registration number, allowing the manufacturer to use the BIS CRS mark on their product.
To apply for BIS CRS Registration, the following documents are generally required:
Application form and duly signed authorization letter
Factory registration documents (for domestic and foreign manufacturers)
Copy of trademark registration (if applicable)
Business license and company profile
Product test reports from BIS-recognized labs
Technical specifications of the product
Undertaking of conformity with Indian standards
Obtaining CRS Certification is not just a regulatory requirement; it also offers numerous advantages to manufacturers and importers.
Legal Protection – Safeguards businesses from penalties, product recalls, or legal disputes.
Enhanced Quality Standards – Ensures that products meet international safety benchmarks.
Consumer Trust – BIS mark assures buyers that the product is tested and reliable.
Smooth Market Entry – Helps both Indian and foreign manufacturers gain faster entry into the Indian electronics market.
Export Advantages – CRS certification strengthens the global acceptability of products made in India.
While beneficial, manufacturers often face certain challenges during the registration process, such as:
Lengthy Testing Procedures – Testing may take time depending on product complexity.
Regulatory Updates – Keeping track of frequent changes in BIS notifications can be difficult.
Documentation Issues – Incomplete or incorrect paperwork can delay certification.
Foreign Manufacturer Compliance – Appointment and role of Authorized Indian Representative often add complexities.
This is why many companies prefer hiring a professional BIS CRS consultant to simplify the process and ensure timely registration.
For businesses unfamiliar with Indian compliance, CRS consultants play a vital role. They:
Assist in preparing documents and filing applications.
Guide in selecting BIS-approved labs for testing.
Monitor the entire registration process for accuracy.
Provide updates on regulatory changes and renewals.
By hiring a consultant, manufacturers can reduce delays, avoid errors, and achieve certification without unnecessary complications.
EVTL India is one of the leading BIS Consultant in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licences hassle-free. The BIS CRS Certification is more than just a compliance formality—it is a gateway to ensuring product safety, reliability, and consumer trust in India’s growing electronics market. Whether you are a domestic producer or an international manufacturer planning to expand in India, obtaining BIS CRS Registration is mandatory for notified products.
By following the right process, submitting accurate documentation, and possibly taking expert guidance, manufacturers can achieve certification smoothly and unlock opportunities in one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer electronics markets.
In essence, CRS Certification not only aligns with government quality standards but also builds long-term credibility for brands in India and abroad.