If you want to launch international skincare or beauty products in India, you must complete CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR. This process ensures your products meet India’s safety standards and follow the Cosmetics Rules, 2020. Whether you are a new skincare brand or a global exporter entering India, understanding the complete process of CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR helps you avoid delays, rejections, and penalties. This guide explains the top 10 steps, required documents, forms, timelines, and compliance rules-all in simple, clear words.
Steps for CDSCO Cosmetic Registration and Import License in Delhi NCR for Skincare Brands
1. Identify Whether Your Product Needs CDSCO Cosmetic Registration
Not all cosmetics require approval, but all imported cosmetics need CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR under Form COS-1.
Examples:
- Sunscreens
- Moisturisers
- Serums
- Facewash
- Toners
- Sheet masks
- Lipsticks, foundations, cleansers
If it is a cosmetic under the rules, you must apply for CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR.
2. Appoint an Authorized Indian Agent
Foreign brands must appoint an Indian company to act as:
- Local representative
- Compliance manager
- Applicant for CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR
The agent must have a valid Import-Export Code (IEC) and GST registration.
3. Collect All Documents for COS-1 Application
To apply for CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR, prepare these documents:
- Free Sale Certificate (FSC) from country of origin
- Ingredient list with percentages
- Specifications & test reports
- Stability test data
- Label artwork as per India standards
- Manufacturing license of foreign manufacturer
- GMP or ISO certificate
- Importer’s undertaking
- Product category list
- Brand and product details
- Pack size and variants list
These documents are mandatory for CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR.
4. Prepare Labels According to CDSCO Standards
India has strict labeling rules. Labels must include:
- Brand name
- Product name
- Ingredient list
- Batch number
- Mfg & Exp date
- Manufacturer details
- Importer details
- Net quantity
- Warnings (if any)
Incorrect labels can delay CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR.
5. Submit Online Application on CDSCO SUGAM Portal
Your authorized agent must create a SUGAM account and submit the Form COS-1 application for CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR.
6. Pay Government Fees
The fee depends on product category and number of variants.
Fee is paid online during submission of CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR.
7. CDSCO Evaluation of Documents
CDSCO checks:
- Ingredients safety
- Label accuracy
- Product compliance
- Manufacturing safety
- Document completeness
Errors can lead to queries. Queries must be answered correctly to avoid rejection of CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR.
8. Respond to Queries and Provide Clarifications
CDSCO may ask for:
- Updated label
- Revised document
- Additional safety proof
- Missing declarations
Quick responses ensure faster approval for CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR.
9. Receive COS-2 Import Registration Certificate
After approval of Form COS-1, CDSCO issues Form COS-2, which is the actual cosmetic import registration certificate that allows legal import into India.
10 Start Importing and Maintain Compliance
After receiving the license:
- Import through authorized ports
- Keep batch records
- Maintain quality standards
- Follow labeling rules
- Renew certificates when required
Non-compliance can cancel your CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR.
Required Documents for CDSCO Cosmetic Registration in Delhi NCR
To complete CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR, these documents are necessary:
- Free Sale Certificate
- Ingredient list
- Product testing report
- Label artwork
- Specifications
- Stability data
- Manufacturing license
- GMP certificate
- Authorization letter
- Importer’s IEC and GST registration documents
- Brand undertaking
Animal Testing Ban in India
Testing cosmetics on animals is against the law in India. It is also against the law to bring in any beauty product that has been tested on animals. This rule is important for skincare enterprises that send products to India. The foreign manufacturers should sign a document that shows:
- The product should be clean, not tested on animals
- None of the substances in the product were tested on animals.
- Basically, the company follows guidelines that indicate animals shouldn’t be hurt
The Cos-1 application for cosmetic import registration will not be accepted by CDSCO unless this statement is made. India also wants to companies to use computer models and safety checks in labs instead of testing on animals to make sure their products are safe and don’t require animals.
Why Skincare Brands Choose Delhi NCR for CDSCO Cosmetic Registration
Delhi NCR is India’s cosmetic import hub because:
- Fast approval timelines
- Easy access to customs
- Large consumer market
- Presence of experienced regulatory consultants
- Close to the CDSCO headquarters
This makes Delhi ideal for CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR.
Conclusion
Getting a CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR is mandatory for all skincare brands importing cosmetics into India. When done correctly, the process ensures safety, compliance, and quicker market entry. By following the top 10 steps—documents, labelling, application submission, and compliance—you can smoothly launch your products in India without delays or penalties.
If you need support with CDSCO filing, document preparation, labelling, or Form COS-1 submission, expert guidance can help reduce errors and speed up the approval process.
Is CDSCO cosmetic registration mandatory for imported skincare?
Yes, all imported skincare products require CDSCO cosmetic registration and import license in Delhi NCR.
How long does COS-1 approval take?
Usually 4–8 weeks, depending on document accuracy and CDSCO queries.
Can one COS-2 certificate cover multiple products?
Yes, multiple products and variants under the same brand can be covered in one COS-1 application and approved under a single COS-2 certificate.
Do Indian manufacturers need COS-1?
No, COS-1 is only for imported cosmetics.
