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- BIS Certification for refined nickel is mandated by the QCO 2025 recommended by the Government of India.
- BIS certification for refined Nickel is mandatory under IS 2782:2023 for quality compliance and trade in India.
- The purpose of certification is to secure industrial safety, purity and environmental standards in the supply of metals.
- Without a BIS certificate, there can be no legal sales, customs clearance, and/or use of refined nickel in India when the QCO is enforced.
- The application process involves metal testing in a laboratory, and possibly an audit of the facility (for domestic refiners), or foreign certification via the FMCS.
- Failing to comply with the QCO can cost businesses crores in fines, delays or inventory being detained.
introduction
The Indian government has been tightening its grip over the game of product standards, which bring quality, safety, and consumer trust to a higher level. On 17th April 2025, the Ministry of Mines issued the Refined Nickel (Quality Control Order) 2025 under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act 2016. The Refined Nickel Quality Control Order, 2025, is one of the recent statutes that have come into the domain of this regulatory authority. The order made under the BIS regime mandates certification and compliance with standards for refined nickel required by the industry and manufacturing sectors.
Diligence Certifications guide describes the layers of the BIS Certification for Refined Nickel Quality Control Order, its effective date, BIS Certification for Refined Nickel and exactly how it applies to manufacturers, importers, and traders filing this BIS certification for refined nickel to gain easy market access.
What Is the Refined Nickel Quality Control Order, 2025?
The Refined nickel Quality Control Order for the year 2025 is a government decree promulgated by the Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in the government of India. Indeed, refined nickel shall conform to Indian Standard , and it shall have an ISI mark denoting its conformity to specifications of the BIS.
This Quality Control Order is intended to raise the standard of materials used for applications in important industries such as electronics, aerospace, automobile, metallurgy, etc. Making BIS certification mandatory for refined nickel will bring high-quality and safe products into the Indian market matter where they are made-would be ensured by government legislation.
Why Has the Government Introduced This QCO?
Nickel plays a really important role in the industry as one of the most widely used metals for developing stainless steel, batteries, as well as in superalloys and a few other components that are very high in performance. With the strategic importance of this metal to energy, defence, and automotive applications, the Indian government has taken proactive steps to ensure its quality.
The Refined Nickel Quality Control Order mainly wants to achieve the following:
- Allow for the uniformity of refined nickel quality across the country.
- Promote consumers’ safety and the reliability of industries.
- Prevent the importation of inferior or fake refined nickel imports.
- Foster the local adopters of international best practices.
- Enhance “Atmanirbhar Bharat” for India through quality manufacturing.
Commencement and Implementation Date
According to the advanced publicizing of the official notification in early 2025, the Refined Nickel Quality Control Order shall take effect six months after the date of publication, i.e, effective from 17th October 2025. On this date, no one may manufacture, store for sale, import, distribute, or sell refined nickel without a valid BIS certification and ISI marking. This grace period gives stakeholders sufficient time to apply for certification and modify their operations to meet the standards.
Scope and Applicability of the QCO
Refined Nickel QCO extends to all types of refined nickel.
Who is covered by it?
- Manufacturers of refined nickel in India.
- Importers who have brought refined nickel to the country.
- Distributors and Traders dealing in the sale of refined nickel.
- This is even if the material is imported for internal use (not for sale) as the order mandates it to be BIS certified.
Documents Required for BIS Certification for Refined Nickel
A. For Indian Manufacturers – ISI Scheme (Domestic)
| Document | Purpose |
| 1. Application Form (Form VI) | Official application on the ManakOnline portal |
| 2. Test Report (from BIS-recognized lab) | Confirms product complies with IS 3074:1985 standard |
| 3. Factory Registration Certificate | Proof of business & manufacturing facility (e.g., Udyam/MSME, GST) |
| 4. Factory Layout & Process Flow Chart | Required for inspection and understanding of production |
| 5. In-house Quality Control Documents | SOPs, equipment list, and inspection logs |
| 6. Raw Material Purchase Invoices | Validates traceability and input quality |
| 7. Authorization Letter | If application is submitted by consultant/authorized person |
| 8. Electricity Bill or Utility Proof | Validates the operational status of the plant |
| 9. Bank Statement or PAN Copy | Financial document for identity verification |
| 10. Packaging Label Design Sample | To ensure BIS Mark and details are printed correctly |
| 11. Pollution NOC / Environmental Clearance | Required for metal refineries as per local norms |
B. For Foreign Manufacturers / Exporters – FMCS (via Indian Agent)
| Document | Purpose |
| 1. Application Form (Form VI & VII) | FMCS application and Indian agent nomination |
| 2. Test Report (from BIS-recognized foreign lab or Indian lab) | Verifies compliance with IS 3074:1985 standard |
| 3. Factory Registration / Business Licence | Proof of manufacturing unit’s legal identity |
| 4. Quality Assurance Plan (QAP) | Covers raw material checks, in-process checks, and final inspection |
| 5. List of Manufacturing Machinery & QC Equipment | Required for factory audit |
| 6. Product Photographs | Clear photos of refined nickel units, packaging, and marking |
| 7. Nomination Letter from Indian Agent | Mandatory for foreign applicants |
| 8. Affidavit & Undertaking by Indian Agent | Legal commitment to represent manufacturer |
| 9. Indian Importer Agreement (if any) | Supply or distribution agreement (optional but helpful) |
| 10. Packing Label with ISI Mark | Sample label showing IS 3074:1985 compliance & BIS Licence No. |
| 11. Payment Receipt for Application Fee | Proof of fee submission (₹1 lakh approx. for FMCS) |
| 12. Copy of Past Shipment Invoices (if any) | Helps BIS assess import credibility (optional) |
BIS Certification for Refined Nickel: Step-by-Step Process
Getting the BIS certification for refined nickel under the compulsory registration scheme appears to be a difficult task, but it can be smooth sailing with a partner like Diligence Certifications. Here are the detailed steps:
1. Applicability Check
Check whether the product is covered under Indian Standard and falls under Quality Control Order (QCO). Diligence Certifications will assess the scope of your product.
2. Appointment of AIR (Authorized Indian Representative) [For Foreign Manufacturers]
Foreign manufacturers should appoint an AIR who will communicate with BIS on their behalf and ensure compliance with BIS rules.
3. Apply to BIS
The application is duly completed, and along with the application form the following documents are to be submitted:
- Factory license
- Product drawings/specifications
- Test reports
- Quality control manual
- Production process details
4. Product Testing
The testing of the product is carried out at a BIS-recognized laboratory according to IS 9550:2001, and it tests for chemical composition, physical form, and purity, including what impurities can be present.
5. Factory Audit
BIS officials conduct an on-premises audit of the manufacturing unit to determine whether the production processes and quality systems comply with the documentation submitted.
6. License Granting
Upon successful auditing and testing of the product, BIS issues certification and licensing for the use of the ISI mark on the product.
Timeline and Validity of Certification
The BIS certification for refined nickel is typically acquired within the time span of 90 to 120 days; however, it varies depending on the readiness of documents and testing duration.
The normative grant under the BIS license will be for a period of one year; thereafter, it will continue on compliance and submission of periodic reports by the licensee.
Benefits of BIS Certification for Refined Nickel
Conformity to the updated nickel QCO provides multiple strategic advantages:
- Market Access: Only certified products will be sold or imported in India after July 2025.
- Customer Trust: The ISI mark provides buyer confidence in the quality and reliability.
- Competitive Advantage: BIS certification offers a better status for companies during government and industrial procurement.
- Global Standards Alignment: This enables manufacturers to meet international quality standards.
- Legal Protection: Avoids penalties, seizure, or disruption of business.
Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting Your Application for BIS Certification for Refined Nickel
As of October 17, 2025, BIS Certification for Refined Nickel will be mandatory due to the Refined Nickel Quality Control Order (QCO 2025) that has been issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). As a result, both manufacturers and importers will need to ensure that they comply with this order. Unfortunately, there are a number of mistakes that can delay or complicate your application process. We’ve put together a list of the Top 10 mistakes you should avoid:
1. Overlooking the Applicability of QCO 2025
Many businesses still mistakenly believe that the QCO is limited to sellers or traders. In actuality, all participants including importers and internal users, and manufacturers of refined nickel, need to get BIS Certification if they wish to do business in a compliant manner in India
2. Submitting Incomplete Documentation
Failure to submit required documents such as a factory plan, quality control reports, or pollution NOC could result in immediate rejection or unnecessary delays. It is essential that the documentation provided adheres to the BIS documentation checklist as it relates to compliance with IS 3074:1985.
3. Using a Non-Recognized Testing Lab
Reports from non-BIS recognized laboratories cannot be accepted. Testing must take place in a BIS approved lab whether that lab is in India or anywhere in the world (in the case of FMCS)
4. Not Preparing the Factory for the Audit
The onsite audit is a major aspect of the BIS certification. If the factory isn’t ready for the audit – for example, not organizing SO, QC equipment or simple process flows, this can cause audit failure.
5. Incorrect ISI Marking or Label Designs
If on the product label, there is no correct ISI mark shown, or a format of the standard number (IS 3074:1985), or format of license number, then the application will be delayed. Furthermore, we see many rejections taking place because of poor packaging samples or no sample packaging that comply with the scheme.
6. Not Appointing a Proper Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
Foreign manufacturers applying to the FMCS scheme must appoint a properly qualified Authorized Indian Representative (AIR). Poor choice of AIR, without experience in BIS or legal experience for AIR can lead to communication failure and resulting in major procedural errors.
7. Ignoring Environmental Compliance (Pollution NOC):
If you’re a domestic refiner, you will need a valid Pollution NOC. Some applicants believe that this isn’t part of the BIS process and, more often than not, pollution licensing comes up during document review or when audited.
8. Incorrect Payment Receipt or Fee Paid Late:
Fee payments made late or incorrectly – even if it’s only for the FMCS application (which costs approx. ₹ 1 lakh) – can freeze the process. Even if the fee structure is different for the mandate, remember to cross check it before proceeding to submit your application.
9. Unclear or incomplete product photos:
When you submit your application, it must include clear, high-quality pictures of the refined nickel product. This also includes packaging, where the ISI mark will be placed, presentations of the labels, and other graphic representations of the product. If you include blurry or incomplete pictures, they will be rejected or come back with revisions.
10. Believing BIS Certification Is A One-Time Effort
Once you are granted your BIS certification, you have to maintain certification by undergoing surveillance audit, ongoing testing, and renewals. If you don’t put your certification maintenance obligations into practice after certification, then you could risk having your certification suspended.
Role of Diligence Certifications in BIS Compliance
Diligence Certifications, a premier compliance consultancy, provides exclusive, comprehensive assistance in getting BIS certification for refined nickel. Such services involve:
• Classification of the product and interpretation of standards,
• Application filing and documentation support,
• Coordination with BIS,
• Lab testing and preparation for an audit,
• Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) service, and
• Post-certification compliance work.
Diligence Certifications makes the entire BIS registration journey smooth and hassle-free for domestic producers as well as foreign suppliers intending to enter the Indian market.
Conclusion
The Refined Nickel Quality Control Order 2025 is not simply a formal perception of regulations; it is, in reality, a deliberate transition towards uncompromised quality, safety and accountability in the Indian industrial ecosystem. The Refined Nickel Quality Control Order (QCO) becomes a mandatory requirement. whosoever failing in certification to comply will face the repercussions of market withdrawal, lawsuits, and broken brand credibility.
If you’re a manufacturer keeping your head above water with evolving regulatory aesthetics or an importer suffering Indian standards complexities, BIS certification for refined nickel is no longer optional-it’s an imperative in doing business.
At Diligence Certification, we do not just get certification for you. We help you partner with us to make that transition easy, swift, and successful to full compliance. Our proven expertise, end-to-end support, and unsurpassed understanding of BIS processes mark us as the first choice of companies in India and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BIS Certification a requirement for every type of refined nickel?
Yes. BIS requires certification for refined nickel in every form, including cathodes, pellets, briquettes, and powders, as long as it is refined nickel per IS 3074:1985.
Can I import refined nickel, without BIS certification?
No. Under the QCO 2025 regulation, it would be illegal to import refined nickel without BIS approval.
How long does it take to get BIS Certification?
For Indian manufacturers, 30-60 days. For foreign applicants, under FMCS, anywhere from 90-120 days depending on scheduling of audits.
What if I allow my BIS license to expire?
You must renew your license at least 30 days in advance of the expiration. Operating with an expired license can expose you to legal issues.
Does a single BIS license cover both nickel refined at multiple grades?
No. Depending on specifications, each grade of refined nickel may require a separate application.
Is BIS certification mandatory if nickel is only used for research & development?
In some instances certification may not be necessary, if the nickel is not commercialized, and is only used for research purposes. Otherwise, you should consult with BIS, as they will be able to provide guidance specific to your conditions.
Are there any national, or BIS certified labs that can test nickel?
Yes, BIS has provided a listing of recognized labs that can test refined nickel against IS 3074 standards.
How do I find BIS approved refined nickel suppliers?
BIS maintains a list of certified manufacturers and importers, which is publicly available. You can check licenses on the BIS website.
What are the testing parameters for nickel purity?
IS 3074:1985 requires purity of ≥99.8%. Testing includes impurities, such as iron, sulfur, cobalt, copper, carbon, and lead.
What happens in the factory inspection?
BIS inspectors perform inspections relating to manufacturer’s process, machinery, raw material control, and quality systems to ensure conformance to the standard.
