The toy industry in India is growing rapidly due to increasing demand for safe, educational, and innovative toys. However, with this growth comes the responsibility of ensuring child safety. To regulate quality and safety, the Government of India has made BIS certification for toys mandatory under the Toy Quality Control Order (QCO).

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national body responsible for setting quality benchmarks and ensuring that all toys sold in India meet strict safety requirements. Whether toys are manufactured domestically or imported, obtaining BIS certification is compulsory before they reach the market.

This detailed guide explains the step-by-step process of how to get BIS certification for toys, along with eligibility, documents, testing, compliance, and benefits.

Understanding BIS Certification for Toys

BIS certification for toys is a legal approval issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards that confirms a toy meets Indian safety and quality standards.

The certification ensures:

Toys are safe for children

No harmful chemicals are used

Mechanical and electrical safety standards are met

Products comply with Indian Standards (IS codes)

Once certified, manufacturers can use the ISI mark, which acts as proof of compliance and quality assurance.

For the Indian market, BIS certification is not optional—it is mandatory for both manufacturers and importers.

Eligibility Criteria for BIS Certification for Toys

To apply for BIS certification for toys, the following entities are eligible:

1. Indian Manufacturers

Companies manufacturing toys in India must obtain certification before selling.

2. Foreign Manufacturers

International brands must apply under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).

3. Importers and Brand Owners

Importers must ensure all toys are BIS certified before entering Indian ports.

Eligibility ensures that only regulated and safe products enter the Indian toy market.

Pre-Application Preparation for BIS Certification for Toys

Before starting the application process for BIS certification for toys, manufacturers must prepare:

1. Identify Applicable Standards

IS 9873 (Parts 1–9) for non-electric toys

IS 15644 for electric toys

2. Product Design Compliance

Ensure toys are free from sharp edges, toxic materials, and choking hazards.

3. Internal Quality Control System

A strong quality management system is required for consistent production.

4. Documentation Preparation

Technical documents, safety reports, and factory details must be ready.

Proper preparation reduces delays during certification.

Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process for Toys

The process of obtaining BIS certification for toys involves multiple structured steps:

Step 1: Online Application Submission

The first step is to apply through the official BIS portal.

You must:

Register as a manufacturer or importer

Fill out the application form

Provide product details

Select the applicable IS standard

This step officially initiates the certification process.

Step 2: Document Submission

Applicants must submit required documents, including:

Company registration certificate

Factory license and address proof

Product technical specifications

Manufacturing process details

Quality control documentation

Authorized signatory details

Accurate documentation is essential for smooth approval of BIS certification for toys.

Step 3: Sample Testing in BIS-Approved Laboratory

Product samples are sent to BIS-recognized laboratories for testing.

Tests include:

Mechanical Safety Tests

Sharp edge testing

Small parts safety

Impact resistance

Chemical Safety Tests

Lead content analysis

Heavy metal testing

Toxic substance evaluation

Flammability Tests

Fire resistance

Burning rate evaluation

Electrical Safety Tests (if applicable)

Battery safety

Shock resistance

Voltage control

Only products passing all tests qualify for further processing.

Step 4: Factory Inspection by BIS Officials

After successful testing, BIS officials conduct an on-site factory inspection.

They verify:

Manufacturing process quality

Machinery and equipment

Production consistency

Safety compliance systems

This ensures that the factory can consistently produce safe toys under BIS certification for toys requirements.

Step 5: Evaluation of Test Reports

Once inspection is complete, BIS reviews:

Laboratory test reports

Factory inspection findings

Submitted documents

If everything meets Indian Standards, the process moves forward.

Step 6: Grant of BIS License

If all conditions are satisfied, BIS issues the certification license.

This allows the manufacturer or importer to:

Use the ISI mark

Legally sell toys in India

Operate in compliance with BIS regulations

This is the final stage of obtaining BIS certification for toys.

Post-Certification Compliance Requirements

After receiving certification, ongoing compliance is mandatory:

Proper use of ISI mark on all products

Regular product quality testing

BIS surveillance audits

Renewal of certification before expiry

Maintaining production records

Non-compliance can lead to license cancellation.

Timeline for BIS Certification for Toys

The timeline depends on several factors:

Application review: 1–2 weeks

Product testing: 2–4 weeks

Factory inspection: scheduled based on availability

Final approval: 1–2 weeks after evaluation

Overall, the process may take 4 to 8 weeks depending on readiness.

Common Challenges in BIS Certification Process

Applicants may face challenges such as:

Delay in laboratory testing

Incomplete documentation

Misinterpretation of IS standards

Factory non-compliance issues

Inspection scheduling delays

Proper planning helps reduce these obstacles in BIS certification for toys.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Toys

Obtaining certification provides multiple advantages:

Legal permission to sell toys in India

Higher customer trust and brand reputation

Market access in retail and e-commerce

Assurance of child safety

Compliance with government regulations

Competitive advantage in the toy industry

BIS certification is essential for long-term business success.

Conclusion

The process of obtaining BIS certification for toys is a structured and mandatory requirement in India. It ensures that all toys meet strict safety, quality, and performance standards before reaching children.

By following the step-by-step process—application, documentation, testing, inspection, and approval—manufacturers and importers can successfully enter the Indian market.

In today’s regulated environment, BIS certification for toys is not just a legal requirement but a crucial step toward building trust, safety, and sustainable business growth.

FAQs on BIS Certification for Toys

1. What is BIS certification for toys?

It is a mandatory approval ensuring toys meet Indian safety and quality standards.

2. Is BIS certification compulsory for toys in India?

Yes, it is mandatory under the Toy Quality Control Order.

3. Who needs BIS certification for toys?

Manufacturers, importers, and foreign companies selling toys in India.

4. How long does BIS certification take?

It usually takes 4 to 8 weeks depending on the process.

5. What standards apply to toys?

IS 9873 and IS 15644 are the main standards.

6. What is ISI mark in toys?

It is a quality symbol indicating BIS-certified products.

7. Can imported toys be sold without BIS certification?

No, imported toys must be BIS certified before sale.

8. What tests are required for toys?

Mechanical, chemical, flammability, and electrical safety tests.

9. What happens if BIS rules are not followed?

Products may be seized and penalties imposed.

10. Why is BIS certification important for toys?