Everything You Need to Know About BIS for Footwear

The Indian footwear industry is one of the largest in the world, contributing significantly to the country’s economy and employment. However, with the rise in production and global exports, the quality and safety of footwear products have come under the radar. That’s where BIS Certification for Footwear plays a crucial role. This certification ensures that shoes and other footwear products meet the safety and quality standards as defined by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything about BIS certification for footwear, its importance, procedures, the meaning of ISI Mark, and how a BIS consultant can simplify the entire process.

What Is BIS Certification?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India. It is responsible for setting quality benchmarks and ensuring products comply with these standards to protect consumers and improve product quality.

BIS certification signifies that a product conforms to the Indian quality standards. For footwear, BIS has issued mandatory guidelines to ensure the safety, comfort, and durability of shoes sold in the Indian market.

Why Is BIS Certification Required for Footwear?

Footwear is a daily necessity and directly impacts user comfort and health. Improper or poor-quality footwear can lead to injuries, posture issues, and skin problems. To address these concerns, the Indian government made BIS certification mandatory for certain categories of footwear under Quality Control Orders (QCOs).

Here’s why the certification is important:

• Consumer Safety: Ensures that the material used in the footwear is safe and free from harmful chemicals.

• Quality Assurance: Encourages manufacturers to maintain consistent product quality.

• Market Access: Enables manufacturers to sell their products legally in the Indian market.

• Brand Trust: Enhances the credibility of the product among consumers and retailers.

Types of Footwear Covered Under BIS Standards

The certification covers various categories of footwear, including:

• Rubber Hawai Chappals

• Leather Safety Boots and Shoes

• Canvas Shoes

• Sports Footwear

• PU Sole Footwear

• PVC Sandals and Shoes

• Industrial and Safety Footwear

Each category has a specific Indian Standard (IS) code that manufacturers must comply with. For example, IS 15298 specifies standards for safety footwear.

Understanding the ISI Mark for Footwear

The ISI Mark is a standard compliance symbol issued by BIS. When you see an ISI mark on footwear, it means the product meets the requirements set by Indian Standards.

For consumers, this mark is a stamp of trust. For manufacturers, it's a license to sell in the market. According to the latest QCOs, certain footwear products cannot be sold in India without the ISI mark.

Important points about ISI Mark:

• It can only be used after BIS grants a license.

• The mark must be visibly placed on the footwear or its packaging.

• Any misuse of the ISI mark is punishable under law.

BIS Certification Process for Footwear Manufacturers

The BIS certification process for footwear involves several key steps. Manufacturers must go through this structured process to obtain the BIS license:

1. Application Submission

Manufacturers must apply for BIS certification through the official BIS portal. The application should include product specifications, manufacturing details, factory layout, and test reports.

2. Product Testing

Footwear samples are tested in BIS-recognized laboratories. The tests ensure that products comply with relevant Indian Standards such as IS 15298, IS 6721, etc.

3. Factory Inspection

A BIS officer conducts an inspection of the manufacturing facility to verify processes, quality control, and testing procedures.

4. Grant of License

If the factory and products meet the required standards, BIS grants the license, and the manufacturer can use the ISI mark.

5. Surveillance & Renewal

Even after certification, BIS conducts periodic surveillance and inspections to ensure continued compliance. The license must be renewed periodically.

Documents Required for BIS Certification for Footwear

Here’s a checklist of essential documents:

• Factory layout and process flowchart

• Details of raw materials and suppliers

• In-house testing capabilities

• Quality control manual

• Product test reports

• ISO 9001 certificate (optional but recommended)

• Authorized representative details (for foreign manufacturers)

Role of a BIS Consultant for Footwear

The BIS certification process can be technical and time-consuming. That’s where a BIS consultant for footwear comes in. These experts simplify the process and help you achieve certification without errors or delays.

Here’s how a BIS consultant can help:

• Assess product category and applicable IS code

• Handle documentation and form submission

• Coordinate with BIS officials

• Assist in sample testing and result interpretation

• Prepare the facility for factory inspection

• Provide end-to-end compliance support

Working with a consultant ensures faster processing and minimizes the risk of rejection.

Foreign Manufacturers and BIS Certification

If you're a foreign manufacturer wishing to sell footwear in India, you must obtain BIS certification under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS). In this case, you’ll need:

• A branch office or authorized Indian representative

• Testing of samples in India

• Compliance with Indian standards

Foreign brands are increasingly hiring a ISI Mark Consultant for Footwear to meet BIS requirements and enter the Indian market smoothly.

Benefits of BIS Certified Footwear

Let’s look at the broader advantages of BIS-certified footwear:

For Manufacturers:

• Eligibility to participate in government tenders

• Increased consumer trust and sales

• Fewer returns and complaints

• Competitive advantage in the market

For Consumers:

• Confidence in product quality

• Assured safety and comfort

• Value for money

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Selling footwear without BIS certification or using the ISI mark illegally can attract heavy penalties. As per BIS Act, 2016, violations can result in:

• Fines up to ₹2 lakhs

• Imprisonment up to 2 years

• Cancellation of business license

Hence, it’s crucial for manufacturers to obtain certification before launching products in India.

Latest Updates on BIS for Shoes

The Indian government is actively tightening compliance norms for footwear. Here are some latest developments:

• Recent QCOs issued in 2023 expanded the list of regulated footwear types.

• BIS has improved the online portal for faster application processing.

• Small-scale manufacturers can now get technical support under MSME schemes.

It is important to stay updated with BIS circulars and announcements to avoid legal complications.

Final Thoughts

EVTL India is one of the leading BIS Consultant in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licences hassle-free. In today’s competitive and quality-driven market, BIS for shoes is not just a legal formality — it's a necessity. Whether you're an Indian or foreign manufacturer, getting BIS certification ensures your footwear meets the highest quality and safety benchmarks.

By securing BIS approval and using the ISI mark correctly, businesses can improve their market position, increase consumer trust, and achieve long-term growth. And if the process seems overwhelming, don’t hesitate to hire a qualified consultant to make the journey easier and more efficient.