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- Learn the BIS requirement for import of steel and why compliance is non-negotiable in India.
- Understand NOC (No Objection Certificate) norms for steel importers and its BIS certification linkage.
- Explore real-world import issues handled by Diligence Certifications with expert compliance guidance.
- Discover how BIS certification impacts ISI marking for steel products and trade regulation.
- Know which steel categories fall under mandatory BIS scheme, with proper documentation & timelines.
Introduction
A Gurgaon-based construction firm once faced an unexpected nightmare: A full shipment of imported alloy steel pipes, valued over ₹5 crores, was held at Mumbai Port for lack of a valid BIS certificate. Their Korean supplier didn’t understand the Indian BIS import requirements. Customs slapped the importer with a delay notice and warned of confiscation unless BIS-compliant certification and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) were produced.
This story isn’t uncommon.
With the rising infrastructure boom and India’s tightening compliance norms, any importer dealing in steel – from reinforced bars to flat products – must meet the BIS requirement for import of steel to avoid penalties, rejections, and profit loss.
That’s where experts like Diligence Certifications step in – simplifying the chaotic and paperwork-heavy BIS process for clients across India and abroad.
What is BIS Certification and Why is it Required for Steel Imports?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is India’s national standards body under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. BIS ensures product quality, safety, and reliability through regulatory compliance. Steel, being a critical input for construction, defence, automobiles, and infrastructure, is stringently monitored under BIS norms.
Why Importers Need It:
- To ensure steel products meet Indian safety and performance standards.
- To clear customs without penalties or confiscation.
- To obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for each consignment.
Mandatory Steel Products under BIS Certification Scheme
Not all steel is regulated under BIS. However, a large number of items fall under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) or ISI Mark Certification Scheme. The steel grades and products covered are notified via Quality Control Orders (QCOs) by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
Common Steel Products Under BIS Scope:
- Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel Products (IS 1786)
- Hot Rolled Steel (IS 2062)
- Cold Rolled Sheets and Strips (IS 513)
- Stainless Steel Sheets (IS 6911)
- Steel Tubes (IS 1161, IS 1239)
“Importers should proactively verify the latest QCO updates from BIS.gov.in and consult technical teams before contracting overseas suppliers.”
What is No Objection Certificate (NOC) & How to Obtain It
The NOC is a written permission issued by BIS that allows the customs department to release imported steel shipments. Without a valid NOC, your steel consignment remains blocked at the port.
Who Needs It?
Every importer dealing in BIS-covered steel products.
Steps to Obtain NOC:
- Apply for BIS certification (ISI/CRS depending on category)
- Get your foreign manufacturing site audited (or file under Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme)
- Submit documentation, test reports, and sample evaluations
- Receive BIS license and apply for NOC per consignment
Diligence Certifications supports clients in obtaining both BIS and NOC approvals swiftly, even with technical constraints or foreign manufacturer delays.
NOC (No Objection Certificate) for Steel Importers: BIS & ISI Mark Exemption
Steel and steel products are among the most extensively imported commodities into India. Owing to large-scale imports, the risk of product dumping has significantly increased. To control this, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has made certification mandatory for approximately 145 steel products. These products must bear the ISI Mark, a hallmark of quality that ensures zero-defect, superior-grade steel reaches Indian markets.
However, certain steel products are currently exempt from mandatory BIS certification. In such cases, importers are required to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Steel to proceed with import and clear the consignment through customs.
Ministry of Steel’s Quality Control Order (QCO): Mandatory Clarification for Steel Imports
Under the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, issued in line with the BIS Act, 2016, imported steel must have:
- Valid BIS Certification
- ISI Mark on the product
- Mill Test Certificate with traceable origin
To streamline clarifications for steel importers, the Ministry of Steel launched the TCQCO Portal, a centralized digital interface. All importers must now file clarification requests for every steel consignment lacking BIS certification through this portal. Importers must submit fresh requests for each shipment unless the Ministry explicitly states otherwise.
When is a NOC (No Objection Certificate) Required?
A NOC becomes essential when the steel grade or product:
- Does not fall under BIS’s mandatory list
- Is incorrectly flagged by customs due to misleading HSN codes
- Is similar to a covered product but technically different
To avoid unnecessary delays, detention charges, or even confiscation, importers should obtain a Ministry of Steel NOC confirming the steel product is exempt from BIS norms.
Key Requirements for NOC:
- A valid justification for exemption from ISI marking
- Submission of detailed technical specifications
- Mill Test Certificates and third-party validations
- Application submitted per grade, per consignment via the TCQCO Portal
Important: Customs often confuse product codes, treating non-mandated products as BIS-regulated. This can lead to significant financial penalties if a valid NOC is not presented.
“To protect your shipments and reputation, Diligence Certifications recommends securing a pre-import BIS exemption or NOC through expert review.”
While the BIS certification is mandatory for most steel products, there are specific exemptions and conditional approvals where an importer may obtain a No Objection Certificate without the ISI mark, provided certain criteria are met.
When is NOC Issued Without BIS/ISI Mark?
- For testing and R&D purposes in recognised labs
- For temporary imports (re-export after exhibition or demonstration)
- For government procurement with approved exemptions
- When QCO updates are in transitional phase
Key Requirements:
- Strong justification for non-use of ISI mark
- Importer must submit alternate quality certificates and compliance documentation
- Prior intimation to BIS with evidence and contract details
- Conditional NOC is valid for one-time clearance only
“Exemptions are never blanket. Each NOC is considered on a case-by-case basis, often requiring close coordination with BIS officers.”
Importers should never assume exemption unless BIS has granted it in writing. Otherwise, customs will classify the import as illegal, triggering seizure and fines.
Documentation Required for BIS Steel Import Certification
To apply for BIS certification and NOC, importers must submit the following documents:
- Company incorporation certificate & IEC (Importer Exporter Code)
- Product specifications & drawings
- BIS-approved lab test reports (from India)
- QCO compliance declaration
- Factory address & production details
- Packaging & labelling samples
- Copy of overseas supplier license (if any)
In case of foreign manufacturing units, additional documentation includes:
- Factory inspection reports
- Test raw material sources
- Product formulation process chart
Step-by-Step Process to Get BIS Certification for Steel Products
The BIS certification process for steel imports involves regulatory filing, lab testing, and inspection protocols that vary based on the origin of the product. Here’s how Diligence Certifications simplifies the process for both domestic and foreign steel manufacturers:
ISI Certification Process (For Indian Manufacturers)
The ISI mark certification is mandatory for Indian manufacturers of regulated steel products. The stepwise process includes:
- Application Filing
Submit the ISI application form through the official BIS portal. - Factory Inspection by BIS
BIS auditors conduct an on-site inspection of manufacturing infrastructure, quality systems, and testing facilities. - Sample Selection & Testing
Product samples are drawn during inspection and sent to BIS-approved labs. - Test Report Review
BIS evaluates the lab test results for conformity with the applicable Indian Standards. - Grant of ISI Certification
If all parameters are met, BIS issues the ISI license, authorising use of the standard mark on steel products.
FMCS Certification Process (For Foreign Manufacturers)
Overseas suppliers must secure BIS certification under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS). This ensures imported steel meets Indian quality benchmarks:
- Application Submission
File a detailed FMCS application specifying the steel grade, IS code, and production facility details. - Fee Payment
Pay the required application fee and audit charges. - Factory Audit
BIS dispatches a team to inspect the foreign manufacturing unit’s facilities, process controls, and quality management systems. - Sample Testing in India
Samples collected during the audit are tested in BIS-approved labs in India. - Compliance Evaluation
Both audit findings and lab results must align with BIS standards. - Payment of Licensing & Marking Fees
Upon approval, pay the license fee and advance minimum marking fee. - Grant of FMCS License
BIS issues the license, enabling legal import and distribution of certified steel products in India.
The Role of ISI Mark in Steel Import
An ISI mark is mandatory for many steel categories under Indian law. Without this mark, the product is deemed non-compliant and unfit for commercial use.
Key Insight:
ISI marks ensure Indian users get steel of a consistent grade, thickness, corrosion resistance, and tensile strength – especially important in public infrastructure.
Diligence Certifications provides extensive handholding for:
- Acquiring the ISI license (with factory audit support)
- Renewal and amendment of existing licenses
- Managing multi-country suppliers under one certification
Timeline & Cost for BIS Steel Import Certification
General Timelines:
- Documentation & Pre-check: 2-3 days
- BIS Application Review: 7-15 working days
- Product Testing & Lab Reports: 10-15 days
- NOC Release: 3-5 days per consignment
Costs Involved:
- BIS License Fee
- Lab Testing Charges
- Consultant or BIS agent fees (if applicable)
Delays in test results or factory non-conformities may stretch timelines, which is why experienced partners like Diligence Certifications make a difference.
Conclusion
For steel importers in India, BIS requirement for import of steel are no longer optional. They’re essential for smooth customs clearance, legal operation, and consumer safety. Missing a single certification step can mean shipment delays, financial loss, and reputation damage.
Trust professionals like Diligence Certifications to help you decode the BIS maze. With years of experience across sectors, global coordination teams, and dedicated compliance managers, we make your steel import process seamless.
Ready to import steel without hurdles? Contact Diligence Certifications today to begin your BIS journey.
FAQs
Is obtaining BIS Certification compulsory for importing steel into India?
Yes, most steel products listed in the Quality Control Orders require BIS certification.
Who will issue the BIS Certification?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the Ministry of Steel.
Can importers directly apply for BIS certification?
No, only manufacturers (Domestic/ Foreign manufacturers) apply for certificate. Importers can purchase only from the manufacturers who have OEM certification.
How will foreign manufacturers apply for BIS certification?
Through the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).
What are the requirements that needed for applying BIS Certification?
The Application Form, Factory License, Manufacturing Processes, Quality Control Plan, and BIS Test Report.
What will be the process for BIS Certification?
Application→Document Verification→Factory Inspection→Sample Testing→Granting of license.
How long will it take to get the BIS Certification?
Normally it is between 4-6 months, depending on inspection as well as testing.
If the steel gets imported without BIS Certification what will happen?
The consignment could be rejected, seized and penalty from the customs.
What is the validity of the BIS license?
Normally, it is for 2 years which is renewable.
Where to check the BIS Certification by steel manufacturers?
You can check on the Official BIS website to find the list of DAM manufacturers for approvals.
