BIS ISI Mark vs BIS CRS Registration: What's the Difference?

BIS ISI Mark vs BIS CRS Registration: What's the Difference?

BIS ISI Mark vs BIS CRS Registration: What's the Difference?

BIS operates two major mandatory certification schemes that are often confused: the ISI Mark (Product Certification under Scheme-I) and BIS CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme). Understanding the key differences helps manufacturers and importers navigate the correct certification path.

ISI Mark (Product Certification — Scheme-I)

AspectISI Mark
SymbolISI Mark (the rectangular BIS mark with the IS number)
Administered byBIS directly, through 34 Branch Offices
Licence holderThe manufacturer (factory)
RenewalAnnual, with factory surveillance
Factory auditMandatory — BIS officers visit the factory
Market surveillanceRegular BIS market sampling
Identifier on productISI Mark + Licence number (CM/L)
CoverageHundreds of product categories (cement, steel, food products, electrical equipment, etc.)
Primary use caseIndustrial and consumer products covered by QCOs

BIS CRS Registration (Compulsory Registration Scheme)

AspectBIS CRS
SymbolBIS Logo + R-number
Administered byBIS (CRS portal at crsbis.in)
Licence holderManufacturer OR importer
RenewalEvery 2 years
Factory auditRequired for initial registration; surveillance-based thereafter
Market surveillanceRegular BIS market sampling
Identifier on productR-number (Registration Number)
CoverageElectronics, IT products, LED products, solar products, batteries
Primary use caseConsumer electronics and IT products under CRO

Which Does Your Product Need?

  • IT and electronics products (laptops, TVs, phones, SMPS): BIS CRS Registration
  • LED lamps, luminaires, LED modules: BIS CRS Registration
  • Household electrical appliances under QCO (vacuum cleaners, geysers, ACs): ISI Mark
  • Industrial products (cables, switches, circuit breakers): ISI Mark
  • Solar photovoltaic products: BIS CRS Registration

Some Products Need Both!

Some products need multiple BIS certifications. For example, a smart TV may need BIS CRS registration under IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 (electronics component) AND BIS ISI mark under a separate standard for certain components. Always verify with a BIS expert which certifications apply to your specific product.