The growth of India’s beauty and health industry has turned the country into a hot destination for international and local beauty brands. If you want to introduce or sell concealers in India, knowing how to get an Import license for concealers is very important. No matter if you are a seller, distributor, or manufacturer, getting an Indian cosmetic business permit ensures compliance and legal protection.
This comprehensive guide explains how to obtain an Import license for concealer in India, covering the legal aspects and paperwork, to the detailed processes and responsibilities of compliance.
Why Is Obtaining An Import License For Concealer In India Mandatory?
It is essential to secure an import for concealer in India to ensure product safety, regulatory compliance, and consumer protection. The following are the reasons why it is mandatory:
- Legal compliance
- Safety Standards
- Proper labeling
- Tranceability & Quality
- Avoid penalties
Process To Obtain An Import License for Concealer in India
To obtain a cosmetics import license for concealer under the Drug and Cosmetics Act of 1945, you need to do the following:
Step 1: Know The Regulations
In the Indian context, a concealer is considered a cosmetic product. Cosmetics are regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940. For all cosmetics imported for resale in India, it is mandatory to register with the CDSCO before importing into India.
Step 2: Sign Up on the SUGAM Portal
Register as an importer or an authorized agent on the CDSCO’s SUGAM portal (cdsco.gov.in). You will also need to submit PAN, Aadhaar, IEC, and GST documents for account verification, which are basic.
Step 3: Designate an Indian Agent (If Applicable)
As a foreign manufacturer, you must appoint an authorized agent in India and will need a notarized and apostilled Power of Attorney to represent you in India.
Step 4: Collect Documents for Registration
Collect documents like COS 1, which is the application, a Free Sale Certificate from the country of origin, composition of the product, labeling, license for manufacturing, and an affidavit declaring no testing on animals was done. Indian labeling regulations must also be met for draft labels and artwork.
Step 5: Make the Payment
The cosmetics import registration fee can be paid through the Bharatkosh portal. The fee is USD 2000 for each brand and USD 50 for each variant. A payment receipt must be saved for submission with the application.
Step 6: Application Submission
SUGAM portal allows the user to log in and complete Form 42. After all the necessary documents and proof of payment are uploaded and the application is submitted, it will be available for CDSCO’s assessment.
Step 7: Answer CDSCO Questions
CDSCO may have queries about your application and clarifications to be made. Timely and precise replies help avoid holdups in processing.
Step 8: Obtain Import Registration Certificate (COS 2)
COS 2 registration certificate for the cosmetic products is issued upon approval by CDSCO. This certificate is issued for 3 years and is required for import clearance.
Step 9: Product Import
With COS 2 issued, you may now proceed to lodge your Bill of Entry at customs and submit documents such as invoice, packing list, FSC, and registration certificate. The products may be tested or inspected at the port.
Step 10: Follow Post-Import Regulations
Please ensure that when labelling your product that it complies with CDSCO laws regarding product name, ingredients, name of the manufacturer, MRP, batch number, and manufacturing and expiry dates. Also, ensure you are documenting everything and keeping your documents and records ‘audit-ready’ for compliance with documentation.
Documentation Checklist To Obtain An Import License For Concealer In India
Here is the list of documents you may require to import concealer legally in India.
- Cover Letter
- Application Form COS-1
- List of Ingredients
- Product Labels
- Free Sale Certificate (FSC)
- Product Specification and Testing Methods
- Cosmetic Manufacturing License/Registration (from the country of origin)
- Other Important Documents
- Power of Attorney
- Non-Animal Testing Declaration
- Heavy Metals Declaration
- Fee Receipt
Regulatory Authorities That Issue The Import License For Concealer
For this situation, the following authorities will grant an import license for cosmetics:
- CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organization): Licensing authority for Cosmetics Imports
- DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade): Authority that will issue Import Export Code (IEC)
Legal Consequences For Non-Compliance With CDSCO Rules
Importing concealers without appropriate CDSCO approval can result in significant criminal and monetary fines under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and Cosmetics Rules, 2020. Listed below are the primary consequences:
- Product Seizure: Customs can detain or confiscate unregistered products.
- Fines: Heavy monetary penalties may apply.
- License Cancellation: The Importer’s license can be suspended or revoked.
- Product Recalls: CDSCO can order a recall of non-compliant products.
- Criminal Action: May lead to prosecution or imprisonment (up to 3 years).
- Blacklist: The Importer may be blacklisted by CDSCO and customs.
How ELT Corporate Can Help?
ELT Corporate is a regulatory consultancy that specializes in CDSCO compliance and can simplify the entire import licensing process for concealer and other cosmetics in India. Here’s how they can help:
- CDSCO Registration: Handles Form COS-1 submission via the SUGAM portal.
- Document Preparation: Drafts PoA, FSC, ingredient list, and declarations.
- Fee & Application Support: Guides you through correct fee payments.
- Query Resolution: Responds to CDSCO objections quickly.
- Post-License Help: Supports labeling, renewals, and customs clearance.
FAQs
Is CDSCO Approval Needed For Sample Products?
Yes, even sample-size concealers need registration before import.
Can I Import Multiple Concealer Shades Under One Application?
You’ll need to pay USD 50 per shade/variant in the same brand category.
How Long Does The CDSCO Process Take?
Typically 3–6 months, depending on documentation and query resolution.
