FMCS CERTIFICATION
Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS): Explained
India, the world's fastest-growing economy, boasts a thriving industrial sector. Foreign manufacturers can set up factories in India after registering under this scheme. This scheme enables manufacturers to use the ISI marking on their products, authorizing them to sell their products in the Indian marketplace. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) governs the FMCS Scheme, making it mandatory for overseas manufacturers aiming to sell their products in India. Let's break down the scheme's legalities and underlying conditions.
An Overview of the FMCS Certification
BIS launched the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) in 2020. This scheme legalizes ISI marking for foreign manufacturers, granting the FMCS department authority to issue certificates for import. Manufacturers must ensure high-quality, safe, reliable, and risk-free products for end-users to obtain this certification.
To secure it, overseas manufacturers must apply via an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR). The certification's approval hinges on the site's performance in the audit process, conducted per BIS norms. Non-compliance may delay or lead to application rejection
Paperwork for FMCS Certification
When applying, provide the following paperwork:
- Production Flowchart:
- Factory Registration:
- Product Details:
- Quality Control Certificate:
- Product Testing Report:
- List of Equipment and Machinery:
- Trademark Registration:
- AIR Details:
A detailed diagram reflecting the step-by-step process of your manufacturing process. It also includes quality protocols used within the production line.
Documentation confirming that your production site is registered under the Factories Act 1948.
Comprehensive details concerning products you manufacture, including specs, materials used, and intended use.
A document evidencing that your products adhere to specific quality standards. It reflects your commitment to rendering high-quality goods.
Detailed outcomes from product testing procedures issued by the certified lab.
A detailed list reflecting all the machinery and equipment installed within the production site, contributing to the product manufacturing.
Proof evidencing that your brand name is registered in the prevailing trademark act.
Detailed concerning the AIR (Authorized Indian Representative) liable for addressing licensing formalities on behalf of the non-Indian applicant
Conditions to be fulfilled by the applicant seeking FMCS certification
- The products must conform to the Indian Standards Specification (ISS).
- The production facility must be situated outside of India.
- The factory must have all the equipment for production and testing.
- There should be an in-house lab with testing equipment and qualified personnel to ensure the product adheres to the applicable ISS.
- The manufacturer must comply with the Scheme of Inspection and testing (SIT) and pay the yearly marking fee. The company/manufacturer must abide by the underlying norms of the license.
What is the Role of AIR in FMCS certification?
The role of AIR (Authorized Indian Representative) plays a vital role in the BIS registration process. As per the BIS, overseas manufacturers are required to appoint an AIR who will be liable for addressing the filing legalities.
- The AIR must be an Indian resident.
- The AIR ensures compliance with norms of Indian Standards throughout the BIS registration process.
- They are accountable for furnishing the BIS license on behalf of the foreign manufacturer, assisting BIS officials during the factory inspection, ensuring that the required paperwork is free from any error, and paying prescribed fees.
Nomination of AIR for FMCS certification
Before nominating an AIR for FMCS certification, one must be aware of the conditions:
- Liaison/Branch office
- Proprietor/registered users
- Other Entity
If the manufacturer operates a branch or liaison office in India, they can act as the AIR
If the manufacturer has yet to open a registered office in India, but its trademark owner resides in India, the latter can serve the role of AIR.
In case both entities lack legal office in India, the other legalized entity can file the application on their behalf
Steps to Secure FMCS Certification
Here's a more detailed explanation of each step:
- Step 1: Prepare the necessary paperwork
- Step 2: Submit the online application
- Step 3: Conduct on-site vetting and sample selection
- Step 4: Lab testing and Report Generate
- Step 5: Pay fees and obtain the certificate
Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate. Refer to the above section to learn more about the paperwork. Documents containing incomplete or misleading details may lead the authority to revoke the application.
Visit the BIS portal to submit the online application. The e-form for BIS approval requires an applicant to provide details like the address of the production site, the product for which approval is required, details of the manufacturing process, quality control standards in practice, Indian standards applied to the product, etc.
BIS officials conduct on-site vetting to verify the manufacturing process and quality control management. Inspectors randomly select one or more product samples from the production lot for testing
The selected samples will then undergo specified tests as cited in the Indian stand. A product can only qualify for the next stage if it adheres to testing requirements. The certified lab shall conduct these tests and accordingly generate the test report.
Pay the prescribed fee for the BIS license, which is valid for one year
What if the FMCS certification application gets rejected?
If the application concerning the FMCS registration stands disqualified, the applicant will receive a notification from BIS reflecting the reason (s) for the same. The applicant can reapply for the certification soon after addressing the issues.
However, it is vital to note that the rejection can lead to many problems and defer the overall process. Therefore, the applicant needs to abide by underlying conditions without any error. Since it can be taxing to secure the license in one go, it is ideal to avail the services from a reputed third-party agency that is well-versed in BIS licensing.
Team up with Adviso: Your Reliable Licensing Partner
Obtaining a BIS license can be challenging due to hefty paperwork, intricacies, and rigorous on-site inspections. At Adviso, we understand the challenges of starting a production unit in India due to numerous legalities.
Our proactive professionals are experienced in FMCS registration and its norms. We ensure a hassle-free license grant. Share your requirements with our experts, and we'll handle the rest, expediting the registration process through liaison with authorities, including BIS.
Why Choose Adviso?
- Expertise in FMCS Registration: Adviso boasts a team of seasoned experts well-versed in FMCS registration and its complexities. We leverage our expertise to navigate you through the process with peace of mind.
- Hassle-Free License Grant: With Adviso, you can expect a hassle-free registration grant. We handle the documentation, ensuring a seamless and efficient application process.
- Streamlined Registration: We comprehend the pitfalls businesses encounter in India's regulatory landscape. Adviso optimizes the registration process by liaising with concerned authorities, ensuring your application moves seamlessly through the necessary channels.
- Comprehensive Support: From document to on-site inspections, we offer end-to-end support at every step of the way. Our experts deal with all aspects of BIS registration, letting you focus on your valuable operations
- Tailored Solutions: Each business adheres to unique requirements. Adviso provides bespoke solutions tailored to your specific needs
FAQs About FMCS Certification
FMCS Certification enables overseas manufacturers to use standard ISI markings on their products. This helps make their products tradable in India.
