BIS testing and certification for footwear and shoes

What is BIS testing and certification for footwear and shoes?

BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certification for footwear is a mandatory compliance requirement under Indian law for footwear manufacturers and importers. This certification ensures that shoes and their components meet the relevant Indian Standards for safety, quality, performance, and chemical compliance. 

Under the Government of India's Quality Control Orders (QCO), 29 footwear products, components, and materials must carry the ISI mark to enter the Indian market. The ISI mark confirms that the product has been tested and approved according to BIS standards and is legally authorised for sale or import into India.

For overseas manufacturers, BIS certification is issued under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), which provides the ISI mark required for clearance through Indian ports. 

Why is BIS certification important?

BIS approval is a guarantee of quality, safety, and trust across the entire supply chain.

It protects consumers by preventing substandard products from entering the market. For footwear manufacturers, it ensures compliance with Indian Standards (IS) for chemical safety, durability, structural integrity, and environmental impact of materials used.

Your challenges

With the enforcement of new Quality Control Orders (QCO), BIS certification is mandatory for all footwear sold or imported into India.

Without a valid certification, shipments risk being held at ports, causing costly delays, penalties, and reputational damage. Even leading brands have faced product recalls due to non-compliance or incorrect use of the ISI mark.

BIS certification ensures: 

• Legal Market Access – No ISI mark means no market entry.
• Quality & Safety Assurance – Compliance with Indian Standards for chemical safety, durability, and structural integrity.
• Brand Protection – Avoid recalls and maintain consumer trust.

What testing is involved in BIS footwear testing?

BIS footwear testing includes structural, chemical, and performance assessments based on the applicable Indian Standard. Testing cover durability, outsole bonding, abrasion resistance, chemical safety, and material performance. All testing must be carried out in BIS-recognised, ISO/IEC 17025:2017-accredited laboratories.

Steps to get a BIS certificate for footwear

The BIS certification process includes:

• Documentation
• Application submission
• BIS audit
• Sample testing
• Grant of licence

How can TÜV SÜD help you?

TÜV SÜD's state-of-the-art labs and technical experts help to support the growing demand and facilitate advanced, ready-to-use BIS LRS testing solutions for the following products, ensuring fast and reliable certification support.

Your business benefits

Ensure product quality: through performance testing in accordance with various global standards

Win customer confidence: by conducting independent tests to assure safety and reliability, thereby enhancing your brand reputation

Gain a competitive edge: by working with TÜV SÜD, a globally trusted provider of premium testing services

Footwear categories covered under BIS QCO

BIS certification applies to multiple footwear categories under Indian Standards, including:

• Footwear made from leather and other materials
• Footwear made from rubber and polymeric materials
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Footwear

Download our brochure for the complete list of IS codes and specifications.

Download our brochure

Why choose TÜV SÜD?

A global leader in testing and certification, TÜV SÜD's team of multidisciplinary experts has in-depth experience across most consumer product categories. We offer extensive industry expertise to support our customers in safety testing and meeting laws, directives, and standards on safety and quality.

By partnering with us, you gain access to expert-guided BIS testing services and comprehensive support throughout your product's lifecycle.

Ready to ensure BIS compliance for your footwear products? 

Get in touch with our experts to begin your BIS testing and certification journey.

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