Step-by-Step Guide to BIS Scheme X Certification Process

Introduction

India’s manufacturing ecosystem is growing rapidly, with strong emphasis on product safety, reliability, and consumer trust. To ensure that machinery and electrical equipment meet stringent standards, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced Scheme X Certification.

The BIS Scheme X Certification process is mandatory for manufacturers of pumps, transformers, cranes, gears, and other industrial machinery listed under Schedule-II. Both domestic and foreign manufacturers must comply before selling their products in India. With the introduction of the OTR Scheme, OTR Registration also plays an important role.

This article offers a detailed, step-by-step roadmap for obtaining Scheme X Certification, helping manufacturers avoid delays and achieve faster compliance.

Step 1: Identify Applicability of Scheme X

The first step is to check if your product falls under the categories covered by Scheme X Certification. These include:

• Pumps and pumping sets
• Transformers and switchgear assemblies
• Cranes and lifting machinery
• Machine tools and gears
• Electrical equipment, components, and assemblies

Products not covered by other BIS Orders or exempted under the OTR Scheme will require both OTR Registration and BIS Scheme X Certification.

Step 2: Review OTR Scheme and OTR Registration Requirements

Before applying for certification, manufacturers must determine if OTR Registration applies. Effective from September 2026, the BIS OTR Scheme expands the scope of regulated products.

Key points:

• Registration is mandatory for machinery and electrical equipment.
• Domestic manufacturers producing only for export are exempt.
• Construction equipment under CMVR is excluded.

Only after completing OTR Registration can manufacturers proceed with Scheme X Certification.

Step 3: Prepare Documentation

The most critical stage in the process is gathering and preparing documents.

For Domestic Manufacturers:

• Business registration (CIN, GST, PAN)
• Factory address proof
• Technical file (design, drawings, safety compliance)
• QA/QC protocols
• Internal test reports

For Foreign Manufacturers:

• All of the above
• Appointment of an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
• Legal documents authorizing AIR to liaise with BIS

Well-prepared documentation reduces queries and speeds up approval.

Step 4: Submit Application

Applications are submitted online through the BIS portal under the Scheme X Certification section.

Steps include:

1. Fill in company and product details.
2. Upload required documents.
3. Pay applicable application and inspection fees.
4. For foreign applicants, attach AIR details and authorization forms.

Once submitted, BIS issues an acknowledgement and initiates the factory audit process.

Step 5: Factory Audit

BIS officials visit the manufacturing site to verify compliance.

• Domestic Manufacturers: The audit usually takes 1–2 days. BIS inspectors examine production processes, QA/QC systems, and witness testing of samples.
• Foreign Manufacturers: Audits are more detailed, lasting 3+ days. Costs for travel, visa, accommodation, and logistics are borne by the applicant.

Any non-conformities identified must be rectified before proceeding.

Step 6: Sample Testing

Product samples are tested to verify compliance with Indian Standards.

• Domestic: Samples may be tested at the manufacturer’s lab (under BIS witness testing) or at BIS-approved labs in India.
• Foreign: Samples are generally shipped to BIS-approved Indian labs for testing, which may add extra time.

Only upon successful test reports can the certification move forward.

Step 7: Evaluation and Grant of Licence

BIS evaluates the audit findings, test reports, and documentation. If all requirements are met, a licence is granted under BIS Scheme X Certification.

The licence allows manufacturers to use the Standard Mark (ISI Mark) along with the unique licence number (CM/L-XXXXXXX). This mark assures consumers and industries of safety and compliance.

Step 8: Post-Certification Obligations

Certification is not a one-time process. Manufacturers must:

• Maintain strict QA/QC systems.
• Submit periodic production and testing reports to BIS.
• Renew the licence on time (usually every 2 years).
• Facilitate surprise audits by BIS inspectors.

Foreign manufacturers must ensure their Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) remains active and updated with BIS.

Timelines

• Domestic Manufacturers: ~90 working days (if documents and testing are complete).
• Foreign Manufacturers: 6–7 months (due to audits, shipping samples, and AIR coordination).

Costs

• Application Fee – Standard charges for processing.
• Audit Fee – Varies depending on product and location.
• Marking Fee – Annual fees for using the Standard Mark.
• Additional Costs for Foreign Applicants – AIR fees, auditor travel and accommodation.

Benefits of Scheme X Certification

• Legal authorization to sell in India.
• Competitive edge with a certified quality mark.
• Increased customer trust and brand credibility.
• Simplified market entry for foreign manufacturers.
• Compliance with international best practices.

Step-by-Step Flow Summary

1. Check product applicability under Scheme X.
2. Complete OTR Registration if applicable.
3. Prepare and compile documentation.
4. Submit online application with fees.
5. Undergo factory audit.
6. Conduct sample testing in BIS labs.
7. BIS evaluates and grants licence.
8. Maintain compliance and renewals.

Conclusion

Obtaining BIS Scheme X Certification is a structured process requiring careful planning, documentation, audits, and testing. With the added requirement of OTR Registration under the new BIS OTR Scheme, manufacturers must be even more diligent.

Domestic applicants enjoy faster timelines, while foreign manufacturers must account for longer approval cycles and additional costs. By following each step carefully, businesses can achieve certification smoothly and establish a strong presence in India’s regulated industrial market.

The role of Scheme X Certification Consultants goes beyond paperwork—they act as compliance partners. From understanding product-specific standards to preparing test samples and managing audits, these consultants guide you at every stage. Our expert BIS Certification Consultants ensure that your brand achieves full compliance while minimizing delays. With our expertise, you can be confident about entering and sustaining growth in the Indian market.

Sun Certifications India is India's top product certification consultant.