Why Cosmetics Need Import Registration
Unlike many countries where branded cosmetics can be freely imported after customs clearance, India requires a pre-import CDSCO registration for all cosmetic products manufactured outside India. This applies to skincare, haircare, color cosmetics, oral care, and all other cosmetic products under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
What Documents Does CDSCO Require?
- Form CDSCO-Cosm-1 (the official application form)
- Full ingredient list with INCI names and exact percentage compositions
- Certificate of Analysis from accredited laboratory
- Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR) or equivalent safety data
- Free Sale Certificate (FSC) from regulatory authority of the country of origin
- Manufacturing authorization/license of the overseas manufacturer
- Label artwork (proposed Indian label featuring all mandatory statutory declarations)
Common Mistakes in Cosmetic Import Applications
- Incorrect INCI names (CDSCO strictly enforces international INCI nomenclature rules).
- Presence of restricted or prohibited ingredients under Indian cosmetic regulations.
- Health or medicinal claims on labels (which can cause CDSCO to reclassify the cosmetic as a drug).
- Missing Free Sale Certificate or submitting an FSC from the wrong issuing body.
- Indian label not complying with mandatory declarations (Mfg date, expiry, MRP, importer details).
Timeline and Government Fees
CDSCO scrutiny typically takes 45–90 days for cosmetic import registration. Each product or variant requires separate categorization and evaluation. Working with experienced consultants prevents costly query cycles.
Import your cosmetic brand legally
DK Reg reviews your formulation and ingredient safety sheets before filing on SUGAM.
Cosmetic Import Registration
