The Indian cosmetic industry is growing rapidly, but each product in India should follow cosmetic rules, which are implicated under the 2020 Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. These rules ensure product safety, efficacy, and quality before they are provided to consumers.
For legal construction, imports or sales in India, businesses must apply through specific COS forms notified by the Central Drug Control Organisation (CDSCO). It is necessary to choose the right COS form to avoid compliance issues and punishment.
What Are COS Forms?
COS Form Cosmetic Rules, 2020 are official formats, which are used for applications such as cosmetic registration, manufacturing license, renewal or certificate. Each form has a unique purpose, which depends on whether you are a manufacturer, importer, exporter or distributor.
For example:
- Importers use COS-1 for registration.
- Manufacturers use COS-2 for license applications.
- Renewals are done using COS-3.
Read More: How to Start Small Cosmetic Business
Types of COS Forms and Their Uses
Here’s a complete list of COS Forms (1–9) under the Cosmetic Rules, 2020:
| Form No. | Purpose | Who Needs It | Authority | Validity |
| COS-1 | Application for Import Registration Certificate | Importers | CDSCO (Central Licensing Authority) | 3 years |
| COS-2 | Application for Grant of Manufacturing License | Manufacturers | State Licensing Authority | Perpetual (subject to fees) |
| COS-3 | Application for Renewal / Duplicate of License | Importers & Manufacturers | CDSCO/State | Same as original |
| COS-4 | Application for Free Sale Certificate (FSC) | Exporters/Manufacturers | State Licensing Authority | Case-specific |
| COS-5 | Application for License to Manufacture Cosmetics for Sale/Distribution | Manufacturers | State Licensing Authority | Perpetual (with fee compliance) |
| COS-6 | Application for Loan License (when using another’s facility) | Loan Licensee | State Licensing Authority | Perpetual (with fee compliance) |
| COS-7 | Application for Renewal of Loan License | Loan Licensee | State Licensing Authority | Same as original |
| COS-8 | Application for Grant of License to Manufacture Cosmetics for Test/Analysis | Testing Labs / Manufacturers | State Licensing Authority | Valid for test duration |
| COS-9 | Application for Approval of Label / Change in Particulars | Manufacturers / Importers | CDSCO/State | Case-specific |
Key Steps to File COS Forms
Step 1: Identify Your Business Role
- Importer – COS-1
- Manufacturer – COS-2 / COS-5
- Exporter – COS-4
- Loan Licensee – COS-6
Step 2: Prepare Required Documentation
- Product formula and ingredient details
- Safety, stability, and efficacy data
- GMP/ISO compliance certificates
- Business registration proof
- Label and packaging artwork (for COS-9)
Step 3: Submit the Application
- Import (COS-1): File online through the SUGAM portal of CDSCO.
- Manufacturing (COS-2, COS-5): File with State Licensing Authority.
- Renewal (COS-3, COS-7): Must be filed before the expiration.
Step 4: Review and Approval
- The CDSCO/State Authority will review the documents, request an explanation if necessary, and then issue a license or certificate.
- Specific approval time limit: 60-90 working days.
Validity of Approvals
- Import Registration Certificate (COS-1): valid for 3 years.
- Manufacturing license (COS-2, COS-5, COS-6): Always, the renewal fee is paid periodically.
- Renewal (COS-3, COS-7): Continue validity of the basic license.
- Free Sale Certificates (COS-4): Validity depends on the requirements of the foreign authority.
How ELT Corporate Can Assist You
At ELT Corporate, we simplify the complex regulatory process for cosmetics by:
- Helping you identify and file the correct COS form.
- Preparing and verifying all supporting documentation.
- Handling online submissions via CDSCO’s SUGAM portal.
- Managing renewals, label approvals, and regulatory follow-ups.
- Ensuring faster approvals so you can focus on business growth.
FAQs
Which COS form is required for importing cosmetics into India?
You need to apply using COS-1 for an Import Registration Certificate.
What form is needed to start cosmetic manufacturing in India?
You must file COS-2 (manufacturing license) with the State Licensing Authority.
What is the validity of an Import Registration Certificate?
COS-1 approvals are valid for 3 years.
Do I need to renew my manufacturing license every few years?
No, manufacturing licenses are perpetual, but you must pay renewal fees as per CDSCO’s rules.
Can I use someone else’s facility to manufacture cosmetics?
Yes, by applying for a Loan License (COS-6).
