The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) is a certification scheme operated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for manufacturers whose factories are located outside India. Under this scheme, a foreign manufacturer can obtain a BIS licence to use the BIS Standard Mark on products that conform to the applicable Indian Standard. FMCS has been in operation since 2000 and is administered by the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Department (FMCD) at BIS Headquarters in New Delhi.

What Is BIS FMCS Certification?

BIS FMCS Certification allows eligible foreign manufacturers to demonstrate that their products meet the requirements of relevant Indian Standards. The certification is granted for products manufactured at a specific manufacturing premises and covered by the applicable Indian Standard.

BIS certification is generally voluntary, but it becomes mandatory for products covered by government-issued Quality Control Orders (QCOs) or other applicable regulatory requirements. Such products may need a valid BIS licence before they can be imported or sold in India.

FMCS is generally applicable to foreign manufacturers for products other than electronic and IT products covered under the separate BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). Product-specific requirements should always be checked before selecting the certification route.

Who Can Apply for FMCS Certification?

A manufacturer with a factory located outside India can apply under FMCS. The applicant must have the necessary manufacturing facilities, machinery, testing arrangements and competent personnel required for conformity with the applicable Indian Standard.

The manufacturer must also agree to the applicable Scheme of Testing and Inspection (SIT), marking requirements and terms and conditions of the BIS licence. A separate application is generally required for each product/Indian Standard and each manufacturing location.

Role of the Authorized Indian Representative

An important requirement under FMCS is the appointment of an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR). The AIR acts as the Indian representative of the foreign manufacturer and is responsible for assisting with compliance and communication with BIS.

The AIR is required to be an Indian resident, subject to the conditions prescribed by BIS. The foreign manufacturer must nominate the AIR in the prescribed manner while applying for the licence.

BIS FMCS Certification Process

The FMCS certification process involves several stages. First, the foreign manufacturer needs to identify the applicable Indian Standard and prepare the required technical and application documents. The application can be submitted through the BIS Manakonline portal. BIS has stated that, from 1 June 2026, FMCS applications are to be submitted online rather than through the earlier hard-copy application route.

After submission, BIS scrutinizes the application and may raise queries or request additional information. Once the application is complete, BIS arranges an assessment of the foreign manufacturing premises.

During the factory assessment, BIS evaluates the manufacturing infrastructure, quality-control arrangements, testing facilities and relevant production processes. Samples may also be drawn for independent testing. The product must demonstrate conformity with the applicable Indian Standard.

After satisfactory assessment and test results, the applicant must complete the applicable financial and licensing requirements. BIS then grants the licence subject to the prescribed conditions.

Documents and Technical Requirements

The exact documentation depends on the product and applicable Indian Standard. Common requirements can include manufacturing details, factory layout, machinery information, testing equipment details, quality-control arrangements, product specifications, process information, test-related documents and details of the Authorized Indian Representative.

Foreign manufacturers should also review the relevant BIS product manual because testing requirements, inspection procedures, marking requirements and product-specific conditions can vary.

BIS FMCS Licence Validity

According to BIS information, an FMCS licence may initially be granted for a period of up to two years, subject to the applicable requirements. It can subsequently be renewed, with renewal possible up to five years as specified by BIS rules and conditions. Licensees are also required to comply with ongoing requirements, including reporting and other conditions attached to the licence.

Why FMCS Certification Matters

For foreign manufacturers supplying products to India, FMCS provides a formal route to demonstrate conformity with Indian Standards and obtain authorization to use the BIS Standard Mark where applicable. It can also support regulatory compliance when a product is covered by a mandatory BIS requirement.

Because the requirements differ according to product, Indian Standard, manufacturing location and applicable QCO, manufacturers should determine the correct BIS certification scheme before beginning the application.

In short, BIS FMCS Certification is the principal BIS certification route for many foreign manufacturers seeking a licence for products manufactured outside India and intended for the Indian market. Proper identification of the applicable standard, preparation of documents, appointment of an AIR, factory assessment and product testing are important parts of the certification process.