Importing products into India offers huge business potential — but it also comes with legal and compliance responsibilities. Before any shipment enters the country, importers must obtain specific import licences and certifications to ensure that products meet India’s trade, safety, and environmental standards.
This comprehensive guide explains all mandatory licences for importing products into India, including IEC, BIS, LMPC, EPR, WPC, and IMEI certifications, and how proper planning helps businesses avoid costly customs delays.
1. IEC Certificate – The Starting Point for Every Importer
The Import Export Code (IEC) is the fundamental licence for anyone wishing to import or export goods in India. Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), it serves as a unique identification number for all international trade transactions.
Without an IEC, no import or export can legally occur.
Key facts:
- Issued by DGFT, under the Ministry of Commerce.
- Required for both individuals and companies involved in import/export.
- Apply online with PAN, address proof, bank details, and digital signature.
- Very easy to apply with Rs. 500 Goverment fees to get one
- Issued same day as the application
Once you obtain your IEC, create an account on the ICEGATE (Indian Customs E-Gateway) portal to manage customs filings, track shipments, and handle electronic documentation.
2. AD Code Registration – Linking Your Bank with Customs
After getting your IEC, the next step is AD Code registration. This code is issued by your Authorized Dealer Bank and connects your business bank account with Indian Customs.
Without an AD Code, importers cannot file Bills of Entry or complete payment transactions for imported goods.
Steps to register your AD Code:
- Request the AD Code letter from your bank branch.
- Upload it on the ICEGATE or Customs portal.
- Get verification from the customs office at your designated port.
3. Appointing a Custom House Agent (CHA)
Navigating customs clearance requires expertise. A Custom House Agent (CHA) acts as your licensed intermediary, handling all documentation, classification of goods under the correct HSN code, duty payments, and coordination with customs officials.
Engaging a professional CHA ensures:
- Error-free documentation.
- Quick customs clearance.
- Full compliance with DGFT and Customs regulations.
4. Product-Specific Licences Based on HSN Codes
Each imported product is assigned an HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) code, determining whether it is freely importable, restricted, or prohibited.
Depending on the product category, several specific licences and certifications may be required.
4.1 LMPC Certificate – Legal Metrology for Packaged Imports
If you are importing pre-packaged goods intended for direct sale to consumers, you must obtain registration under the Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities (LMPC) Rules.
- Purpose: Ensures accurate labeling of MRP, quantity, manufacturer/importer details, and expiry date.
- Issuing Authority: Legal Metrology Department, Ministry of Consumer Affairs.
4.2 BIS Certification – Ensuring Quality and Safety Standards
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) enforces product safety and quality standards for both domestic and imported goods. Two main schemes apply:
(a) BIS CRS Registration (Compulsory Registration Scheme)
- Mandatory for electronic and IT products such as mobile phones, LED lamps, adapters, and batteries.
- The importer or manufacturer must test the product in a BIS-recognized laboratory and register it on the BIS portal before import clearance.
(b) BIS ISI Mark Certification (Scheme-I)
- Applicable to foreign manufacturers of regulated products such as electrical goods, steel, or cement.
- The certification requires appointing an Indian Authorized Representative (IAR) and can take 6–8 months, so it should be planned well before importing from countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, or EU nations.
4.3 EPR Certification – Environmental Compliance for Importers
The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system ensures that importers manage waste generated by their products or packaging. The certification is issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Types of EPR Licences:
- EPR for Plastic Waste – Mandatory for all importers the imports as the customs it is assumed that all the products will come with plastic packaging
- EPR for E-Waste – Required for electronic items and components like phones, chargers, or consumer electronics.
- EPR for Battery Waste – Needed for any imported product containing batteries of any chemistry or size.
Obtaining EPR certification demonstrates your brand’s commitment to environmental sustainability and legal compliance.
4.4 WPC Certificate – For Wireless, Bluetooth & Wi-Fi Devices
If your imported product uses radio frequency technology such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or RFID, you must secure approval from the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
Examples include: smart watches, bluetooth speakers, smart watchs , etc wireless headphones, and IoT devices.
WPC approval ensures your product operates within India’s permitted frequency bands, avoiding interference with public communication systems.
4.5 IMEI ICDR Registration – For Telecom & GSM Devices
Any GSM-enabled device, such as mobile phones, smart trackers, or tablets with cellular connectivity, must be registered with the IMEI Certificate Database Registration (ICDR) portal managed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
This step verifies the authenticity of IMEI numbers and prevents the circulation of counterfeit or cloned devices in India.
4.6 Restricted Item Approvals
Products categorized as restricted imports — such as drones, chemicals, defense items, or pharmaceuticals — require special import authorizations or No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from DGFT or relevant ministries.
These approvals must be obtained before the goods are shipped to India.
5. Why Import Compliance & Certification Matter
Following India’s import compliance rules isn’t just a legal necessity — it’s a business safeguard. Proper licences and certifications ensure smoother customs clearance, protect consumer safety, and reduce financial risk.
Failure to comply can result in:
- Customs detention or confiscation of goods.
- Heavy penalties under the Customs Act or BIS Act.
- Blacklisting of IEC or importer credentials.
When planned correctly, import certification streamlines logistics and gives your business a competitive edge in the Indian market.
6. How Instacertify Simplifies Import Compliance
At Instacertify, our subject-matter experts help importers and foreign manufacturers navigate India’s complex import compliance and certification ecosystem.
We manage the entire process — from DGFT IEC registration to BIS, EPR, WPC, and IMEI approvals — under one roof, saving time and cost while ensuring full regulatory compliance.
Instacertify’s services include:
- End-to-end documentation and portal submissions.
- Coordination with DGFT, BIS, CPCB, DoT, and Customs.
- Product testing via NABL-accredited labs.
- Certification planning for importers and foreign manufacturers.
Whether you import consumer electronics, industrial machinery, or packaged products, Instacertify ensures faster certification, smoother customs clearance, and total compliance confidence.
In Summary, India’s import ecosystem is governed by structured regulations designed to maintain product safety, quality, and environmental responsibility. From IEC registration to EPR, BIS and WPC approvals, every step plays a crucial role in ensuring your import process is legally sound and future-ready.
With Instacertify as your compliance partner, you can focus on scaling your business while we handle the certification and regulatory complexities — ensuring your imports reach the market faster, safer, and fully compliant.
