In today’s competitive market, where quality speaks louder than branding, Indian and foreign footwear manufacturers are increasingly seeking compliance with Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). With the Quality Control Order (QCO) for footwear notified by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), BIS certification is no longer optional—it is essential. Whether you’re producing leather shoes, sports sneakers, or rubber slippers, meeting BIS norms means entering the Indian market with trust, legitimacy, and long-term credibility.
Footwear Products Covered Under BIS Mandatory Certification
The Indian government, through various notifications, has brought multiple types of footwear under compulsory BIS certification. The following are some key categories:
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Leather Safety Boots and Shoes
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Canvas Shoes (Rubber Sole)
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Rubber Hawai Chappals and Sandals
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Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) Footwear
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Sport Shoes with Polyurethane Soles
Each of these products must comply with Indian Standards such as IS 15298, IS 6721, IS 10702, and IS 15844 among others. The applicable standard depends on the type of footwear and its intended use (industrial, casual, or protective).
The Role of ISI Mark for Footwear in Market Compliance
The ISI Mark for Footwear is a symbol of assurance that the footwear conforms to Indian Standards. For manufacturers and brand owners, it means:
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Legal compliance with QCO regulations
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Enhanced consumer trust and brand value
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Increased acceptability in government tenders
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A safeguard against cheap, non-standard imports
Footwear products without the ISI mark, once the QCO becomes effective, cannot be legally sold in India. This makes ISI marking not just a quality badge but a mandatory entry ticket to the Indian footwear market.
BIS for Shoes: Safety and Comfort Come Standard
Footwear, particularly shoes, is more than fashion—it is about ergonomics, durability, and safety. The BIS for Shoes ensures that critical parameters such as:
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Sole adhesion
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Flexing resistance
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Upper and lining materials
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Water resistance
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Anti-slip properties
are all tested and verified. For example, safety footwear must meet anti-impact and anti-compression tests as per IS 15298 (Part 2), while rubber footwear must comply with water absorption and tensile strength limits.
This certification helps eliminate risks from substandard products like heel breakage, chemical irritation, or slipping hazards—making every pair safe to wear and compliant to sell.
Manufacturers: Domestic vs. Foreign—Both Need Compliance
Whether the manufacturer is based in India or abroad, the BIS scheme applies to all. Domestic manufacturers are certified under the ISI Scheme, while foreign manufacturers must go through the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS). The difference lies in the process, not the stringency.
Foreign brands entering India’s booming footwear market need to complete:
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BIS lab testing in India
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Nomination of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
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Factory inspection by BIS officials
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Final license issuance for the ISI mark
Without this license, even globally known brands cannot legally sell their footwear products in India.
The Hidden Risks of Non-Compliance
Failing to comply with BIS regulations can be costly. Some consequences include:
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Immediate product seizure by regulatory authorities
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Heavy penalties or legal action under the BIS Act
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Business license cancellations or import bans
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Loss of reputation and consumer trust
For manufacturers and traders, investing in BIS compliance today is better than facing regulatory hurdles tomorrow. Especially with India’s tightening grip on quality control across multiple sectors.
How a BIS Consultant for Footwear Simplifies the Journey
Navigating the BIS process can feel like walking through a maze—applications, documentation, standards, testing protocols, inspections, and more. This is where an experienced BIS consultant for Footwear proves invaluable.
Consultants provide:
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End-to-end documentation and submission support
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Selection of appropriate Indian Standards
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Coordination with BIS-recognized laboratories
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Pre-audit preparation and mock inspection
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Fast-tracked communication with BIS officials
By outsourcing the process to a trusted consultant, manufacturers can save months of effort and avoid rejection delays, while focusing on what they do best—producing great footwear.
BIS Certification Timeline and Documentation Requirements
The average BIS certification process for footwear takes about 60–90 days. The timeline varies depending on:
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Testing turnaround time
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Responsiveness of the applicant
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Factory readiness for inspection
Required Documents:
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Manufacturing process flow chart
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Quality control equipment list
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Factory layout
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Product samples for lab testing
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Application form and undertaking
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Details of raw material suppliers
Ensuring that your documentation is complete and accurate is critical to avoid delays or queries from the BIS assessment team.
Frequently Asked Questions About Footwear Certification
1. Is BIS certification mandatory for all types of footwear?
Yes, as per the latest QCO notifications, specific categories of footwear have been brought under mandatory BIS certification.
2. Can a trader apply for BIS certification?
No. Only actual manufacturers (domestic or foreign) can apply. However, traders can coordinate through a BIS consultant or act as the Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) for foreign brands.
3. How long is a BIS license valid?
A BIS license is typically valid for two years, after which it must be renewed based on continued compliance.
4. Can I use the ISI mark before getting the license?
Absolutely not. Using the ISI mark without approval is a punishable offense under the BIS Act.
Why Footwear Brands Are Rushing to Certify in 2025
With India’s increased emphasis on "Make in India" and consumer safety, footwear is now a focal point in quality regulation. Brands across categories—sports, formal, industrial, and casual—are racing to complete their certification processes.
The deadline for compliance under QCO is approaching fast, and only BIS-certified products will be allowed on retail shelves, e-commerce platforms, and exports to government departments.
Delaying certification could lead to stock pullbacks, import/export issues, or total business disruption.
Conclusion: Stay Ahead with BIS-Compliant Footwear
EVTL India is one of the leading BIS Consultant in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licences hassle-free. The footwear industry in India is at a turning point. As regulations become more stringent, only those manufacturers and brands who prioritize certification will thrive. From quality assurance to legal compliance and enhanced consumer trust, BIS-certified footwear sets you apart in a crowded marketplace.
Whether you’re a domestic manufacturer or an international brand planning your India entry, it's time to ensure your products carry the stamp of quality—the ISI mark.
