BIS Fee Concessions for MSMEs, Startups & Women Entrepreneurs

The BIS marking fee structure is one of the most important factors that determines the overall BIS certification cost for manufacturers in India. In March 2026, the Bureau of Indian Standards introduced a significant revision in the Annual Minimum Marking Fee under Quality Control Orders (QCOs).

This update brings major relief in the form of fee concessions for MSMEs, startups, and women entrepreneurs, making compliance more affordable and encouraging wider adoption of Indian standards.

If you are planning to obtain a BIS license or are already operating under a QCO, this update can directly impact your cost structure and business strategy.

What is the Minimum Marking Fee?

Under various Quality Control Orders in India, certain products must comply with Indian standards and carry the ISI mark. To use this certification, manufacturers are required to pay a marking fee, which includes:

• Annual Minimum Marking Fee (fixed base fee)
• Variable marking fee based on production volume

The minimum marking fee under QCO ensures that BIS receives a fixed annual amount regardless of production levels. It is a mandatory part of the BIS license fee structure and plays a key role in overall certification expenses.

As per the latest Gazette notification, BIS has introduced concessional rates on the annual minimum marking fee, valid until 31 May 2029:

• Micro Enterprises: 80% concession
• Small Enterprises: 50% concession
• Startups: 80% concession
• Women Entrepreneurs: Additional 10% concession on applicable fees

This update significantly reduces the BIS certification cost, especially for small and emerging businesses.

Detailed Breakdown of Fee Concessions according to latest QCO

Micro Enterprises - Maximum Benefit

Micro enterprises can avail an 80% reduction in the QCO minimum marking fee. This is a major relief for small manufacturers who often face financial constraints in meeting compliance requirements. Lower fees make it easier to enter regulated markets.

Small Enterprises - Substantial Savings

Small enterprises are eligible for a 50% concession, which reduces the ongoing cost of maintaining BIS certification and encourages more businesses to comply with mandatory standards.

Startups - Encouraging Innovation

To support innovation and new businesses, startups are also offered an 80% concession. This makes BIS certification for startups much more accessible, especially for companies launching new products in regulated sectors.

Women Entrepreneurs - Additional Advantage

Women-led businesses receive an extra 10% concession on the already reduced fee. This initiative promotes inclusive growth and encourages greater participation of women in manufacturing and compliance-driven industries.

How This Update Impacts BIS Certification Cost

The BIS marking fee 2026 revision directly reduces the financial burden associated with certification. Since the minimum marking fee is a compulsory annual cost, lowering it has several benefits:

• Makes BIS certification more affordable
• Reduces entry barriers for new manufacturers
• Encourages MSMEs to comply with QCO requirements
• Promotes adoption of Indian quality standards

For many businesses, this update translates into significant yearly savings, making compliance more practical and sustainable.

Check complete details about documentation, cost, and process.

Conclusion

The BIS marking fee 2026 update is a major step towards making compliance more accessible and business-friendly. With concessions of up to 80%, MSMEs, startups, and women entrepreneurs can now obtain and maintain BIS certification at a significantly lower cost.

If you are planning to apply for BIS certification or want to understand how these concessions apply to your business, expert guidance can help you navigate the process efficiently.

• ISI Mark Certification Scheme
• BIS FMCS (Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Quality Control Order (QCO)?

A Quality Control Order (QCO) is a government regulation that mandates BIS certification for specific products. It ensures that these products meet Indian safety and quality standards before being sold in the market.

2. What is the minimum marking fee in BIS?

The minimum marking fee is a fixed annual charge that manufacturers must pay to BIS for using the ISI mark, regardless of production volume. It is part of the total BIS certification cost.

3. Who gets concessions under the BIS marking fee 2026 update?

Micro enterprises, small enterprises, startups, and women entrepreneurs are eligible for concessions ranging from 50% to 80%, along with additional benefits for women-led businesses.

4. What is the validity of these concessions?

The concessions are valid until 31 May 2029, as per the official notification.

5. Do MSMEs get benefits in BIS certification?

Yes, MSMEs receive significant fee reductions under this update, making BIS certification more affordable and easier to maintain.

6. How can startups apply for BIS certification?

Startups can apply through the BIS online portal by submitting required documents, product test reports, and application forms. Professional consultants can help simplify the process.

7. Does this update reduce overall BIS certification cost?

Yes, the reduction in the minimum marking fee directly lowers the annual cost associated with maintaining a BIS license.

8. Is this applicable to all QCO products?

The concession applies to eligible enterprises dealing with QCO-covered products. However, applicability may vary depending on specific product categories and BIS guidelines.