How Long Does It Take BIS FMCS Certification?

If you are a foreign manufacturer planning to enter the India market, one of the first questions you’ll ask is:
“How long does BIS FMCS certification take?”

The certification is issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) and is mandatory for many regulated products before import and sale in India.

👉 The short answer: 8 to 16 weeks on average
👉 The real answer: It depends on multiple technical and procedural factors.

This guide explains the complete timeline, stage-wise breakdown, delays, and how to speed up the process.

What is BIS FMCS Certification?

FMCS certification allows foreign manufacturers to use the ISI mark on products exported to India. It ensures compliance with Indian Standards (IS codes) and includes factory inspection outside India.

👉 Without FMCS certification, regulated products cannot legally enter the Indian market.

Complete Timeline Breakdown of BIS FMCS Certification

Let’s break down the process step by step with realistic timelines:

1. Product Identification & Standard Selection (1–2 Weeks)

• Identify correct IS standard

• Confirm product category

• Determine certification eligibility

👉 Errors here can delay the entire process.

2. Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) (1 Week)

Foreign manufacturers must appoint an AIR in India.

AIR Role:

• Handles BIS communication

• Submits application

• Ensures compliance

👉 Choosing the right AIR speeds up coordination.

3. Documentation Preparation (2–4 Weeks)

Includes:

• Factory details

• Product specifications

• Quality control manuals

• Manufacturing process

• Test reports

👉 Incomplete documents = major delays.

4. Product Testing in BIS-Approved Lab (3–6 Weeks)

• Sample testing

• Safety and performance checks

• Report generation

👉 Retesting can add extra time.

5. Application Submission & Review (1–2 Weeks)

• Application filed via BIS portal

• Initial scrutiny by BIS

👉 Errors may lead to queries and delays.

6. BIS Factory Inspection (Overseas) (4–8 Weeks)

This is the most time-consuming stage.

Includes:

• Scheduling inspection

• Travel arrangements

• Factory audit

• Sample verification

👉 Inspection scheduling depends on BIS availability.

7. Final Approval & Certification (2–4 Weeks)

• Review of inspection report

• Approval of application

• Grant of FMCS license

Total Time Required for BIS FMCS Certification

Stage

Estimated Time

Preparation & Documentation

3–5 weeks

Product Testing

3–6 weeks

Inspection & Approval

4–10 weeks

Total Timeline

8–16 weeks (average)

👉 Complex cases may take 16–24 weeks.

Key Factors That Affect Timeline

✔️ Product Complexity

Technical products require longer testing.

✔️ Documentation Accuracy

Errors lead to repeated queries.

✔️ Lab Availability

Testing delays are common in busy periods.

✔️ BIS Inspection Scheduling

Depends on officer availability and travel logistics.

✔️ Manufacturer Readiness

Prepared factories pass inspection faster.

Common Reasons for Delay

• ❌ Incorrect IS standard selection

• ❌ Incomplete documentation

• ❌ Failed product testing

• ❌ Delay in AIR appointment

• ❌ Poor inspection preparation

👉 These issues can extend timelines significantly.

How to Speed Up BIS FMCS Certification

✔️ Start Documentation Early

Prepare all documents before testing.

✔️ Ensure Product Quality

Avoid test failures and rework.

✔️ Choose Correct IS Standard

Prevents rejection and reapplication.

✔️ Coordinate Testing Properly

Select the right BIS-approved lab.

✔️ Work with an Expert Consultant

Professional guidance reduces delays.

Why You Need a BIS FMCS Consultant

Handling FMCS independently is complex due to international coordination.

A Consultant Helps You:

• Select correct IS standard

• Prepare documentation

• Coordinate testing and inspection

• Handle BIS queries

• Reduce overall timeline

Why UMSPCS is the Best FMCS Consultant

UMS Product Compliance Services (UMSPCS) provides expert FMCS certification support.

Key Advantages:

• ✔️ Fast-track certification strategy

• ✔️ Strong BIS coordination

• ✔️ End-to-end compliance support

• ✔️ Dedicated support for foreign manufacturers

👉 UMSPCS helps reduce bis certification time and ensures smooth approval. Read more also: BIS ISI Certificate for Indian Manufacturer

FAQs — BIS FMCS Certification Timeline

1. How long does BIS FMCS certification take?

Typically 8–16 weeks, depending on product and process.

2. Can FMCS certification be completed faster?

Yes, with proper documentation and expert support.

3. What is the longest stage in FMCS certification?

Factory inspection scheduling usually takes the most time.

4. Is testing mandatory for FMCS?

Yes, product testing in BIS-approved labs is required.

5. Can delays occur?

Yes, due to documentation errors, testing issues, or inspection scheduling.

6. Do all products require FMCS certification?

Only products under mandatory BIS standards.

7. What is the role of AIR?

The Authorized Indian Representative handles BIS communication and compliance.

8. Can I apply without a consultant?

Yes, but the process is complex and may take longer.

9. How to avoid delays?

Ensure correct documentation, proper testing, and expert guidance.

10. Why choose UMSPCS?

UMSPCS provides fast, reliable, and expert FMCS certification services.

Conclusion

The timeline for the BIS FMCS certificate depends on multiple factors, but with proper planning, it can be completed efficiently. While the average duration is 8–16 weeks, delays can occur without the right approach.

By working with experienced consultants like UMS Product Compliance Services (UMSPCS), foreign manufacturers can significantly reduce timelines and ensure smooth entry into the Indian market.

Source: https://biscertificates.wordpress.com/2026/05/02/how-long-does-it-take-bis-fmcs-certification/