BIS Scheme X covers the machinery and electrical equipment that falls under the Omnibus Technical Regulation (OTR). Whether you are a domestic or foreign manufacturer, all you need is your product to be certified under Scheme X. It is mandatory to build trust among customers and for legal sales. But one common question that troubles many manufacturers is “How long does it take?”
The timeline for BIS Scheme X depends upon various factors, such as how well it is prepared with documents, how quickly the product passes lab testing, or factory audit. In this post, we’ll talk about the typical timeline, highlight what causes delays, and share practical tips to speed up the process so that you can get certified easily.
What is BIS Scheme X Certification?
BIS Scheme X Certification refers to a specific product certification scheme governed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)- India’s national standard body. Depending on the nature of the product and whether it’s manufactured in India or abroad, BIS offers different schemes to ensure quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
Scheme X can refer to one of the following:
- ISI Mark Scheme – for domestic manufacturers of products that must conform to Indian Standards.
- FMCS (Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme) – for foreign manufacturers who want to sell standard-marked products in India.
- CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme) – mostly for electronics and IT products requiring mandatory registration before sale.
BIS certification under any scheme ensures that the product meets the relevant Indian Standard (IS). It’s often a legal requirement and a mark of trust for Indian consumers. Without it, products may be stopped at customs, rejected from the market, or penalized by regulators.
Timeline for BIS Scheme X Certification (Omnibus Technical Regulation)
The timeline for obtaining BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certification with Scheme X (OTR) may be different; it takes 3 to 4 months for domestic manufacturers, and approximately 6 Months for foreign manufacturers. This depends upon the entity’s region and various situations. The period for domestic manufacturers may be slightly less, whereas the period for foreign manufacturers may be slightly more due to differences in logistics and compliance processes.
According to the new BIS Update, the Ministry of Heavy Industries, through the Omnibus Technical Regulation (OTR) Order 2024 issued on 28th August 2024, has mandated all manufacturers (domestic and international) to obtain Scheme X Certification and ensure that their products are compliant with the relevant Indian Standards by 28th August 2025.
Tips to Speed Up BIS Certification for Scheme X (OTR)
Below, you can go through a few pro tips to speed up your certification process and avoid delays:
- Choose Your Authorized Indian Representative (AIR): Pick an AIR that has experience with BIS processes to prevent delays in the submission of documents, communication, and compliance.
- Make Sure All Documentation Is Accurate and Complete: Your certification can be delayed if your documents are not submitted properly.
- Pre-Test Products at A BIS-Approved Laboratory: If possible, test your product at a BIS-recognized laboratory before applying (which can take place in India or overseas as long as it is permitted).
- Submit Documentation That Is As Accurate and Complete: The choice of IS Codes (indian standards), photos of your products, and all other documentation.
- Prepare Your Factory Audit: BIS requires you to complete a factory audit to inspect your overseas manufacturing site. Ensure that your manufacturing site is compliant.
- Ensure Communication with BIS: If you receive a request from BIS for documentation or clarification, make sure that you respond to BIS within 24-48 hours.
Conclusion
BIS Certification under Scheme X (foreign manufacturers) typically takes, on average, 4-6 Months. The time can vary depending on cost category, complexity of test(s), and how accurate the submission documentation is. However, all these issues can be fixed with the best scheme X consultant in india in India. ERCS Private Limited has experience in helping global brands reach Indian standards compliance. We will remove all the difficulties during product certification.
