{"id":891,"date":"2026-06-04T11:40:22","date_gmt":"2026-06-04T11:40:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/?p=891"},"modified":"2026-06-04T11:40:27","modified_gmt":"2026-06-04T11:40:27","slug":"cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/","title":{"rendered":"Cosmetics Import License India 2026: The Only Step-by-Step Guide You Need"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<pre class=\"wp-block-verse has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Do you want to import your foreign cosmetics brand into India? From CDSCO registration to filling out Form COS-1  here is the complete truth, straight and simple.<\/strong><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_84 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#1_What_is_CDSCO_and_Why_Does_It_Control_Cosmetics\" >1. What is CDSCO and Why Does It Control Cosmetics?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#2_Cosmetics_Rules_2020_%E2%80%94_The_Law_You_Must_Know\" >2. Cosmetics Rules 2020 \u2014 The Law You Must Know<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#3_Do_You_Need_an_Import_License\" >3. Do You Need an Import License?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#4_Step-by-Step_Process_Form_COS-1_to_Import_Registration_Certificate\" >4. Step-by-Step Process: Form COS-1 to Import Registration Certificate<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#Step_1_%E2%80%94_Appoint_an_Authorised_Agent_in_India\" >Step 1 \u2014 Appoint an Authorised Agent in India<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#Step_2_%E2%80%94_Prepare_All_Required_Documents\" >Step 2 \u2014 Prepare All Required Documents<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#Step_3_%E2%80%94_File_Form_COS-1_on_CDSCO_Online_Portal\" >Step 3 \u2014 File Form COS-1 on CDSCO Online Portal<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#Step_5_%E2%80%94_CDSCO_Review_and_You_Get_Form_COS-2\" >Step 5 \u2014 CDSCO Review and You Get Form COS-2<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#Step_6_%E2%80%94_Post-Approval_Compliance_Renewal\" >Step 6 \u2014 Post-Approval: Compliance &amp; Renewal<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#5_Documents_Checklist_%E2%80%94_Cosmetics_Import_License_India\" >5. Documents Checklist \u2014 Cosmetics Import License India<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#Manufacturer_Manufacturing_Premises_Details\" >Manufacturer &amp; Manufacturing Premises Details<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#Product-Level_Documents\" >Product-Level Documents<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#Chemical_Technical_Information\" >Chemical &amp; Technical Information<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#Undertakings_Declarations\" >Undertakings &amp; Declarations<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#6_Complete_Fee_Structure_%E2%80%94_Cosmetics_Import_License\" >6. Complete Fee Structure \u2014 Cosmetics Import License<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#7_Timeline_%E2%80%94_How_Long_Does_It_Take_to_Get_a_Cosmetics_Import_License_in_India\" >7. Timeline \u2014 How Long Does It Take to Get a Cosmetics Import License in India?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#8_What_Cannot_Be_Imported_%E2%80%94_Prohibited_Items_Under_Cosmetics_Rules_2020\" >8. What Cannot Be Imported \u2014 Prohibited Items Under Cosmetics Rules 2020<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#9_Labelling_Requirements_for_Imported_Cosmetics_in_India\" >9. Labelling Requirements for Imported Cosmetics in India<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#10_Frequently_Asked_Questions_%E2%80%94_Cosmetics_Import_License_India\" >10. Frequently Asked Questions \u2014 Cosmetics Import License India<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/cosmetics-import-license-india-2026-the-only-step-by-step-guide-you-need\/#11_Why_Satori_One_Click_Solutions_%E2%80%94_And_Why_Not_Do_It_Yourself\" >11. Why Satori One Click Solutions \u2014 And Why Not Do It Yourself?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_What_is_CDSCO_and_Why_Does_It_Control_Cosmetics\"><\/span>1. What is CDSCO and Why Does It Control Cosmetics?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Before importing any cosmetics into India, there is one name you need to understand: <strong>CDSCO \u2014 Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">CDSCO is a regulatory body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare that ensures the quality, safety, and compliance of both drugs and cosmetics. In the context of cosmetics, <strong>CDSCO is India&#8217;s Central Licensing Authority<\/strong> \u2014 and the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) acts as the Central Licensing Authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">If you want to import any foreign cosmetic brand into India \u2014 whether it is Korean skincare, French perfume, or any international beauty product \u2014 then obtaining an <strong>Import Registration Certificate (IRC) from CDSCO is mandatory.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<p class=\"has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\"><strong><strong>&#x1f4cb; Legal Basis<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\">The Cosmetics Rules, 2020 (notified on 15th December 2020, vide G.S.R. 763(E)) operate under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. Rule 12(1) clearly states: <em>&#8220;No cosmetic shall be imported into India unless the product has been registered in accordance with these rules by the Central Licensing Authority.&#8221;<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Cosmetics_Rules_2020_%E2%80%94_The_Law_You_Must_Know\"><\/span>2. Cosmetics Rules 2020 \u2014 The Law You Must Know<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Earlier, cosmetics were regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945. In November 2020, the Central Government created a dedicated law \u2014 <strong>The Cosmetics Rules, 2020<\/strong> \u2014 which is exclusively for cosmetics and covers everything separately: import, manufacture, labelling, testing, and compliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">These rules apply to all types of cosmetics in India \u2014 all products defined as &#8220;cosmetic&#8221; under Section 3(aaa) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-style-plain is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>&#8220;A cosmetic means any article intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled or sprayed on, or introduced into, or otherwise applied to, the human body or any part thereof for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance.&#8221; \u2014 Section 3(aaa), Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">This means that everything <strong>from face wash to nail polish, from shampoo to lipstick<\/strong> \u2014 everything falls under this law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Do_You_Need_an_Import_License\"><\/span>3. Do You Need an Import License?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Short answer: Yes, absolutely.<\/strong> But there is an important nuance here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">The Cosmetics Rules 2020 have two types of approvals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Approval Type<\/th><th>Form<\/th><th>Who Needs It<\/th><th>Validity<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Import Registration Certificate (IRC)<\/td><td>COS-2<\/td><td>Foreign manufacturer \/ brand owner \u2014 for first-time registration of their products<\/td><td>Perpetual (5-year retention fee)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Import Registration Number (IRN)<\/td><td>COS-4A<\/td><td>Any Indian importer who wants to import a product already registered by someone else&#8217;s IRC<\/td><td>3 Years<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">In this blog, we are talking about the <strong>Import Registration Certificate (IRC)<\/strong> \u2014 which is for the foreign manufacturer or their authorised agent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>&#x1f517; Want to understand the full difference between IRC and IRN? Read: <a href=\"http:\/\/satoriocs.com\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"satoriocs.com\">Import Registration Certificate vs Import Registration Number \u2013 Key Differences Explained<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Step-by-Step_Process_Form_COS-1_to_Import_Registration_Certificate\"><\/span>4. Step-by-Step Process: Form COS-1 to Import Registration Certificate<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Now let&#8217;s get to the real work. To import cosmetics into India, you need to follow these 6 steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_%E2%80%94_Appoint_an_Authorised_Agent_in_India\"><\/span><strong>Step 1 \u2014 Appoint an Authorised Agent in India<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">If you are a foreign manufacturer, you need to <strong>appoint an Authorised Agent in India<\/strong>. This agent will deal with CDSCO on your behalf, submit documents, and ensure compliance for your business in India.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Authorisation under Rule 12(3) is executed following the format given in the First Schedule. It must be authenticated:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Before a First Class Magistrate in India, <strong>or<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Before a competent authority in the country of origin, <strong>or<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Through Apostille<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-luminous-vivid-orange-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\"><strong>&#x26a0;&#xfe0f; Important<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-luminous-vivid-orange-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\">The authorised agent remains responsible even if the manufacturer withdraws the authorisation \u2014 for compliance of imported products. Therefore, the selection of the agent should be done carefully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_%E2%80%94_Prepare_All_Required_Documents\"><\/span><strong>Step 2 \u2014 Prepare All Required Documents<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Part-I of the Second Schedule contains the complete list of documents to be submitted with the application. The full documents checklist is given in Section 5 below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">This step is the most time-consuming \u2014 especially for overseas manufacturers who need to obtain a <strong>Free Sale Certificate, manufacturing license, and product approvals<\/strong> from their country of origin&#8217;s regulatory authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_%E2%80%94_File_Form_COS-1_on_CDSCO_Online_Portal\"><\/span><strong>Step 3 \u2014 File Form COS-1 on CDSCO Online Portal<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">The application is submitted in <strong>Form COS-1<\/strong> on the Central Government&#8217;s online portal. This includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Full name and address of the manufacturer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Details of the manufacturing site<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">List of cosmetics to be imported (brand name, variant, pack size)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Documents as per Part-I of the Second Schedule<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Fee payment receipt<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Under Rule 12(7), until the online portal becomes operational, offline applications are also accepted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Step 4 \u2014 Pay the Prescribed Fee<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Fees are paid in <strong>US Dollars<\/strong> (Third Schedule). Payment is made through challan at Bank of Baroda, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, New Delhi, or via electronic mode, under the Head of Account: &#8220;0210-Medical and Public Health, 04-Public Health, 104-Fees and Fines&#8221;.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">The complete fee structure is given in Section 6 below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_5_%E2%80%94_CDSCO_Review_and_You_Get_Form_COS-2\"><\/span><strong>Step 5 \u2014 CDSCO Review and You Get Form COS-2<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">After documents are submitted, the Central Licensing Authority reviews the application. If satisfied, the <strong>Import Registration Certificate is issued in Form COS-2.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Under Rule 13(1), CDSCO has a <strong>6-month window<\/strong> \u2014 to grant or reject the application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">If rejected, the applicant can appeal to the Central Government within 45 days, which passes an order within 90 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_6_%E2%80%94_Post-Approval_Compliance_Renewal\"><\/span><strong>Step 6 \u2014 Post-Approval: Compliance &amp; Renewal<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Even after receiving the IRC, the work is not over. A <strong>retention fee must be paid every 5 years.<\/strong> Any change  in label, composition, or testing must be informed to CDSCO within 15-30 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column has-light-green-cyan-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Does the CDSCO process seem complicated? <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Satori One Click Solutions&#8217; experts handle the entire process for you \u2014 from documents to approval.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact: satoriocs@gmail.com<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Documents_Checklist_%E2%80%94_Cosmetics_Import_License_India\"><\/span>5. Documents Checklist \u2014 Cosmetics Import License India<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">As per Part-I of the Second Schedule, the following documents must be submitted with the application:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Manufacturer_Manufacturing_Premises_Details\"><\/span><strong>Manufacturer &amp; Manufacturing Premises Details<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Name and address of the manufacturer (manufacturing premises), telephone, fax, email<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Names and addresses of partners or directors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Name, address, and directors\/partners of the Authorised Agent in India<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Brief business profile of the manufacturer (domestic + global market)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Product-Level_Documents\"><\/span><strong>Product-Level Documents<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-medium-font-size\">\n<li>Names, brand names, categories, pack sizes, and variants of cosmetics to be imported<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Manufacturing license or registration or product permission or marketing authorisation or Free Sale Certificate \u2014 from the regulatory authority of the country of origin<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>List of countries where marketing authorisation or import permission has been granted<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chemical_Technical_Information\"><\/span><strong>Chemical &amp; Technical Information<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Name of each ingredient (in standard nomenclature) and percentage in the cosmetic<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Product specifications and testing method<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Labelling method (as per Cosmetics Rules 2020)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Package insert (if applicable)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Undertakings_Declarations\"><\/span><strong>Undertakings &amp; Declarations<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Undertaking \u2014 to comply with IRC conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Declaration \u2014 regarding manufacturing premises information and notification of changes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Undertaking \u2014 to comply with Chapter III of Cosmetics Rules 2020<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Declaration \u2014 quality compliance as per BIS standards (Ninth Schedule)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Declaration \u2014 no cosmetic will be imported after animal testing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Undertaking \u2014 to inform any change in label\/composition\/testing within 30 days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Undertaking \u2014 to immediately provide information about market withdrawal or regulatory restriction<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>&#x1f517; Need more details on this? Read: <a href=\"http:\/\/satoriocs.com\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"satoriocs.com\">Documents Required for Cosmetics Import License India \u2013 Full Checklist with Download<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Complete_Fee_Structure_%E2%80%94_Cosmetics_Import_License\"><\/span>6. Complete Fee Structure \u2014 Cosmetics Import License<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Fees are paid in <strong>US Dollars (USD)<\/strong> , as per the Third Schedule of the Cosmetics Rules 2020. This is the official fee structure:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Fee Item<\/th><th>Amount (USD)<\/th><th>Notes<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Grant of IRC \u2013 per cosmetic category<\/td><td><strong>$1,000<\/strong><\/td><td>80+ categories listed in Fourth Schedule<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Additional category of cosmetic<\/td><td><strong>$1,000<\/strong><\/td><td>Per additional category<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Per variant of cosmetic<\/td><td><strong>$50<\/strong><\/td><td>Each product variant<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Per additional manufacturing site<\/td><td><strong>$500<\/strong><\/td><td>Each manufacturing site<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Overseas site inspection<\/td><td><strong>$5,000<\/strong><\/td><td>Per manufacturing site if inspection is needed<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Permission for new cosmetic<\/td><td><strong>$500<\/strong><\/td><td>If product has a novel ingredient<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Duplicate copy of IRC<\/td><td><strong>$200<\/strong><\/td><td>If original is lost\/defaced<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Retention fee (every 5 years)<\/td><td><strong>$1,000<\/strong><\/td><td>Per category (same as grant fee)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>&#x26a0;&#xfe0f; Late Fee on Retention<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">If the retention fee is not paid by the due date, a late fee of 2% per month applies for 180 days. If payment is still not made after 180 days, the IRC is deemed cancelled. Once cancelled, a fresh application must be submitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>&#x1f4a1; Testing Fees Are Separate<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Apart from the CDSCO registration fee, if your products are selected for testing, testing fees are paid separately \u2014 directly to the laboratory. These are listed in the Fifth Schedule (separate rates for physical, chemical, and microbiological tests).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Timeline_%E2%80%94_How_Long_Does_It_Take_to_Get_a_Cosmetics_Import_License_in_India\"><\/span>7. Timeline \u2014 How Long Does It Take to Get a Cosmetics Import License in India?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Stage<\/th><th>Timeframe<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Document collection (from manufacturer side)<\/td><td>2\u20138 weeks<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Authorised Agent appointment + authentication<\/td><td>1\u20133 weeks<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Form COS-1 preparation and filing<\/td><td>1\u20132 weeks<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CDSCO review window (statutory)<\/td><td>Up to 6 months<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>If CDSCO requests clarification<\/td><td>Additional 2\u20134 weeks<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Total realistic timeline<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>4\u20137 months<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">If CDSCO rejects the application, you can appeal to the <strong>Central Government within 45 days<\/strong>, which passes an order within 90 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column has-light-green-cyan-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<p><strong>&#x2705; How Can the Timeline Be Shortened?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Applying through experienced compliance experts helps avoid common mistakes that often cause delays. <a href=\"http:\/\/satoriocs.com\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"satoriocs.com\">Satori One Click Solutions<\/a>&#8216; team files the application with correct documents from day one, so that queries from CDSCO are minimized.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>&#x1f517; More details? Read: Cosmetics Import License Timeline India \u2013 <a href=\"http:\/\/satoriocs.com\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"satoriocs.com\">Why Delays Happen and How to Avoid Them<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_What_Cannot_Be_Imported_%E2%80%94_Prohibited_Items_Under_Cosmetics_Rules_2020\"><\/span><strong>8. What Cannot Be Imported \u2014 Prohibited Items Under Cosmetics Rules 2020<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Under Rule 18, the following cosmetics <strong>cannot<\/strong> be imported into India:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Products banned in the country of origin<\/strong> \u2014 cosmetics that are prohibited for manufacture, sale, or distribution in the country of origin cannot be imported into India (even under a different name)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Expiry date less than 6 months<\/strong> \u2014 products with a &#8220;Use Before&#8221; date less than 6 months from the date of import cannot be imported<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Cosmetics containing Hexachlorophene<\/strong> \u2014 completely banned (soaps may contain up to 1% with a special caution label)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Animal-tested products<\/strong> \u2014 cosmetics tested on any animal after 12 November 2014 cannot be imported<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>&#x1f517; For the complete list, read: Cosmetics Banned From Import in India \u2013 <a href=\"http:\/\/satoriocs.com\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"satoriocs.com\">Prohibited Ingredients &amp; Rules <\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Labelling_Requirements_for_Imported_Cosmetics_in_India\"><\/span><strong>9. Labelling Requirements for Imported Cosmetics in India<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Under Rule 34, <strong>every cosmetic imported into India<\/strong> must have the following information on its label:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Name of the product<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Name and complete address of the manufacturer (or &#8220;Made in [Country]&#8221;)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Use Before \/ Expiry Date (month and year)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Batch Number (preceded by &#8220;B&#8221; or &#8220;Batch No.&#8221;)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Import Registration Certificate Number<\/strong> \u2014 it is mandatory to mention preceded by &#8220;RC&#8221; or &#8220;RC No.&#8221;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Name and address of the importer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Net contents (weight\/volume)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\">List of ingredients (>1% in descending order, with the heading &#8220;INGREDIENTS&#8221;)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column has-pale-pink-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Label and compliance is a complex process. Satori&#8217;s experts review every product&#8217;s label before CDSCO submission \u2014 to ensure rejection does not happen.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Talk to Us Now \u2192<\/strong> satoriocs@gmail.com <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Frequently_Asked_Questions_%E2%80%94_Cosmetics_Import_License_India\"><\/span><strong>10. Frequently Asked Questions \u2014 Cosmetics Import License India<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Is it mandatory to get a license to import cosmetics into India?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Yes. Under Rule 12 of the Cosmetics Rules 2020, no cosmetic can be imported into India unless it has a valid Import Registration Certificate (IRC) issued by CDSCO. Importing without an IRC is illegal and punishable under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>How long does it take to get a cosmetics import license in India?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">CDSCO has a statutory window of 6 months to grant or reject the application. Including document preparation, Authorised Agent appointment, and application filing \u2014 realistically, it takes 4\u20137 months. With experienced consultants, unnecessary delays can be avoided.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>What is the fee for cosmetics import registration in India?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">USD $1,000 per cosmetic category, plus $1,000 per additional category, $50 per variant, and $500 per additional manufacturing site. Fees are as per the Third Schedule of the Cosmetics Rules 2020 and are paid in US Dollars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Who can apply for a cosmetics import registration certificate in India?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Under Rule 12(2), the application can be made by the manufacturer themselves, or by their Authorised Agent in India, or by the importer in India, or by a subsidiary in India authorised by the manufacturer. For foreign manufacturers, appointing an Authorised Agent is the most practical option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Can cosmetics that were tested on animals be imported into India?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">No. Under Rule 18(4), cosmetics tested on animals after 12 November 2014 cannot be imported into India. This is an absolute ban \u2014 no exceptions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>How long is the cosmetics Import Registration Certificate valid?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">The IRC is valid in perpetuity \u2014 meaning technically for a lifetime. But a retention fee must be paid every 5 years. If the retention fee is not paid by the due date, a late fee of 2% per month applies for 180 days. If payment is still not made after 180 days, the IRC is deemed cancelled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Can multiple products be covered under a single Registration Certificate?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Yes! Under Rule 13(4), one or more cosmetics can be included in a single application \u2014 if they are from the same manufacturer. A single COS-2 can cover multiple products, with additional fees according to categories and variants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>What is the difference between Cosmetics Rules 2020 and the old Drugs Rules 1945?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">The Cosmetics Rules 2020 separated all cosmetic provisions from the Drugs Rules 1945 and compiled them into a dedicated, updated law. The new rules include online application, updated GMP requirements, animal testing ban, and the concept of perpetual validity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Why_Satori_One_Click_Solutions_%E2%80%94_And_Why_Not_Do_It_Yourself\"><\/span><strong>11. Why Satori One Click Solutions \u2014 And Why Not Do It Yourself?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Technically, you can apply to CDSCO on your own. But here are some practical realities:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Document errors = rejection<\/strong> \u2014 if even one document is incorrect or incomplete, CDSCO can reject the application, and you will have to wait another 6 months<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Labelling non-compliance<\/strong> \u2014 missing India-specific labelling requirements is very common, and this is the most common reason for rejection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Overseas authentication<\/strong> \u2014 authenticating the Authorised Agent&#8217;s authorisation, obtaining free sale certificates, and getting translations done \u2014 these are especially challenging for manufacturers outside India<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Post-approval compliance<\/strong> \u2014 even after receiving the IRC, you have to follow retention fees, change intimation, and voluntary recall procedures<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Satori One Click Solutions is your partner throughout this journey from the first consultation to the certificate in your hand.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Do you want to import your foreign cosmetics brand into India? From CDSCO registration to filling out Form COS-1 here is the complete truth, straight and simple. 1. What is CDSCO and Why Does It Control Cosmetics? Before importing any cosmetics into India, there is one name you need to understand: CDSCO \u2014 Central Drugs [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":898,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"pagelayer_contact_templates":[],"_pagelayer_content":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1,5],"tags":[122],"class_list":["post-891","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-home","category-global-regulatory-pathways-for-cosmetics","tag-cosmetic"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/891","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=891"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/891\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":897,"href":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/891\/revisions\/897"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/898"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=891"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=891"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/satoriocs.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=891"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}