Regulatory Resources
Useful links, guides, and answers to common questions about cosmetic regulations in India — all in one place.
Key Links & Guides
CDSCO
Official CDSCO portal links, fee schedules, and guidance documents.
BIS Standards
Bureau of Indian Standards documents and certification requirements.
Regulatory Guides
Our in-house guides to help you understand the regulatory landscape.
Regulatory Glossary
Plain-language definitions of 40 India cosmetics regulatory terms — CDSCO, BIS, Cosmetics Rules 2020, legal metrology, and more.
Useful Links
Key government portals and regulatory bodies relevant to cosmetics in India.
CDSCO Import Fee Calculator
Select your product category and number of variants to estimate CDSCO registration fees and timelines.
Between 1 and 50
Fee per variant
₹1,500
Total for 1 variant
₹1,500
Est. timeline
3–6 months
Fees correct as of 2025 — verify against the current CDSCO fee schedule before submission. Processing timelines are estimates and depend on dossier completeness and CDSCO workload.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CDSCO registration and do I need it?
CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation) regulates cosmetics imported into India. Any cosmetic product imported from outside India must be registered with CDSCO before it can be sold. Domestically manufactured products are exempt from CDSCO registration but must comply with the Cosmetics Rules, 2020.
Which cosmetics require BIS certification?
Several categories of cosmetics are covered under mandatory BIS certification under the IS standards — including soaps, shampoos, skin creams, talcum powder, and hair oils. The list is periodically updated. We recommend checking with us to confirm whether your specific product category requires BIS certification.
How long does CDSCO registration take?
Typical timelines range from 3 to 9 months depending on the product category, completeness of the dossier, and current CDSCO workload. With a well-prepared application and proactive follow-up, our clients typically receive approvals in the 3–5 month range.
Can I sell my product while the registration is pending?
No. Import and sale of cosmetics without a valid CDSCO registration is a violation of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Products found in the market without registration are subject to seizure and legal action.
What labelling requirements apply to cosmetics sold in India?
All cosmetics sold in India must have labels in English or Hindi that include the product name, list of ingredients (INCI names), manufacturer's name and address, country of origin, batch number, manufacturing and expiry date, net content, and any necessary warnings. Imported products must also display the importer's name and address.
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