BIS Registration For Electronic Video Games [IS 616:2017]

If you manufacture or import electronic video games, BIS Registration for Electronic Video Games under IS 616:2017 is your gateway to the Indian market. Regulatory compliance is a must in this booming gaming industry, and a BIS certificate will ensure that electronic gaming devices meet safety standards before they enter the Indian market.

Recognising the widespread popularity of video games, especially among children, the Government of India and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) made it mandatory to register electronic video games under the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) in July 2013, under Scheme II, Schedule II.

As per IS 616:2017, all video games must comply with safety and quality standards before being sold in India. Therefore, let’s explore why BIS certification for electronic video games is essential and how it ensures the safety, credibility, and marketability of your gaming products.

Overview Of IS 616:2017 Electronic Video Games

IS 616:2017 is a standard established by the BIS to regulate the quality and safety of electronic video games, gaming consoles, and related devices. The primary objective of this standard is to ensure that gaming products meet safety requirements before they are introduced into the Indian market.

To protect users, especially children, the Government of India has made BIS certification mandatory for all electronic gaming products sold in the country. Without this certification, businesses cannot manufacture, import, or sell gaming devices in India.

Key Highlights Of IS 616:2017 For Electronic Video Games

Here are the key highlights of Indian Standard 616 required for obtaining BIS certification for electronic video games:

• Product Name: Safety Requirements for Electronic Video Games and Similar Devices
• Applicable Indian Standard: IS 616:2017
• Applicable Certification Scheme: BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)
• Applicable Mark: BIS CRS Mark
• Compliance Requirement: Mandatory for manufacturing, import, and sale in India
• Ministry: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
• Scope: Covers electrical safety, fire hazards, radiation control, and mechanical durability to ensure user protection, especially for children.
• Major Countries of Import: China, Japan, USA, South Korea, etc.

Documents Required To Get BIS Certificate For Electronic Video Games

To obtain BIS certification for electronic video games as per IS 616:2017, the following documents are required:

• Business Registration Certificate
• Manufacturing License (for manufacturers)
• Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) Letter (for foreign manufacturers)
• Product Specification Sheet (including model numbers & variants)
• Circuit Diagram & PCB Layout
• User Manual & Installation Guide
• Test Reports from BIS-recognized laboratories
• Declaration of Conformity to IS 616:2017
• Safety and EMC Compliance Certificates (if applicable)
• Brand/Trademark Registration Certificate (if available)
• Undertaking for Compliance with BIS Guidelines
• IEC Code (Import Export Code)
• Bill of Entry & Shipping Documents (if applicable)

How To Get BIS Certification For Electronic Video Games?

To obtain BIS registration for electronic video games and gaming consoles, you need to follow these steps:

• Product Testing in BIS-Recognized Labs: Gaming products must be tested in an authorized BIS laboratory before applying for BIS certification. These tests verify whether the product meets IS 616:2017 safety requirements. Once the testing is completed, a test report is issued.
• Submit Application for BIS Registration: Once the test results are approved, you must submit the documents such as the manufacturer’s business license, test reports, trademark certificates, etc.
• Verification and Approval: Once the application is submitted, BIS authorities review the documents and test reports. If the product meets all safety requirements, BIS certification is approved.
• BIS Certification Grant: Once the application is approved, BIS grants the BIS CRS Certificate, allowing the electronic video game product to carry the BIS CRS Mark, which is mandatory for sale in India.

Essential Factors For BIS Certification For Electronic Video Games

Certain key factors must be met to obtain a BIS registration for electronic video games. Without these, no manufacturer can apply for a BIS license in India. Here are the four essential requirements:

• Product Category: If a manufacturer produces more than one type of product, each product requires a separate BIS certification. For example, if a company manufactures both electronic video games and gaming remotes, they must submit two separate applications to BIS.
• Manufacturer Eligibility: BIS certification is only issued to the manufacturer, not to importers, traders, or retailers. However, if a foreign manufacturer does not have an office in India, an Indian Authorized Representative (AIR) can apply on their behalf. Still, the certification will be granted in the manufacturer’s name.
• Manufacturing Address: The BIS application must provide a valid manufacturing unit address. If a manufacturer has multiple production units for the same product, each unit must obtain a separate BIS certification.
• Trademark/Brand Registration: If a manufacturer produces the same product under multiple brands, they must apply for separate BIS licenses for each brand. For example, a company making electronic video games under Brand A and Brand B needs two distinct BIS certifications.

Who Needs BIS Certificate For Electronic Video Games?

The BIS certification for Electronic Video Games IS 616:2017 is mandatory for anyone involved in manufacturing, importing, distributing, or selling electronic video games in India. So, if you’re involved, you must obtain a BIS certificate under IS 616:2017. This certification ensures that gaming devices meet safety and quality standards before they reach consumers.

• Manufacturers: Whether you’re an Indian manufacturer or a foreign company, if you produce gaming consoles, handheld devices, or accessories, you need BIS approval to sell your products in India.
• Importers: Bringing gaming devices from other countries? Your products won’t clear customs unless they are BIS-certified.
• Retailers & Distributors: If you sell or distribute gaming products in India, you must ensure they are BIS-compliant to avoid legal issues and sales restrictions.
• E-commerce Sellers: Online platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and other marketplaces require gaming devices to be BIS-certified before listing them for sale.
• OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers): If you manufacture gaming products for other brands, you must also comply with BIS regulations to ensure product approval.

Without BIS certification, businesses risk product bans, heavy fines, and a loss of consumer trust. So, if you need help with the registration process? ELT Corporate can guide you every step of the way.

How Can ELT Corporate Help You With BIS Registration For Electronic Video Games?

Obtaining BIS certification can be challenging for you, but ELT Corporate simplifies the process. We assist with:

• End-to-end compliance management
• Quick product testing and documentation
• Seamless BIS registration filing
• Regulatory updates and guidance

If you’re looking to register your electronic video games under IS 616:2017, contact us today to ensure hassle-free BIS certification and smooth market access.

List Of Products Covered Under Compulsory Registration Scheme Of BIS

Below is a comprehensive list of products covered under BIS CRS along with their respective Indian Standards and implementation dates: