Complete Guide to CRS Registration for Electronics Importers (2026)

The Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) is India's mandatory certification program for electronics and IT products. If you import or manufacture any of the 80+ product categories covered under CRS, you must register with BIS before selling in India. This guide covers everything from testing to certification grant.

What is CRS Registration?

CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme) was introduced in 2012 under the BIS Act. It requires manufacturers and importers of specified electronics products to get their products tested at BIS-recognized labs and register with BIS. Unlike ISI certification, CRS does not require factory inspection: only product testing and self-declaration of conformity.

Step-by-Step CRS Process

• Step 1: Identify the applicable IS standard for your product
• Step 2: Send product samples to a BIS-recognized lab for testing
• Step 3: Receive test report (4-8 weeks)
• Step 4: Submit online application on BIS Manakonline portal with test report
• Step 5: Pay BIS fees (₹1,000 application fee + marking fee)
• Step 6: BIS reviews application and grants registration (2-4 weeks)
• Step 7: Affix CRS mark (Standard Mark) on your product

CRS Cost Breakdown

Testing fees: ₹40,000-₹1,20,000 per model. BIS application fee: ₹1,000 per application. Annual marking fee: ₹1,000-₹10,000 (volume-based). Total estimated: ₹50,000-₹1,50,000 per product model.

Timeline

Lab testing: 4-8 weeks. Application processing: 2-4 weeks. Total: 6-12 weeks from sample submission to certification grant. Fast-track options available through experienced consultants can reduce this to 3-4 weeks.