CDSCO Cosmetic Import License Online

Regulating the Cosmetic Market

Apply for CDSCO cosmetic import registration. We help with SUGAM portal filing, ingredient analysis, and obtaining the COS-2 license for global brands.

Get the mandatory CDSCO registration (Form COS-2) to legally import and sell international cosmetic brands in the Indian market.

Bring global beauty to India. Obtain your official registration from CDSCO to legally import and market foreign cosmetic products.

The import of cosmetics into India is strictly regulated by the CDSCO under the Cosmetics Rules, 2020. No cosmetic product can be imported unless it is registered with the central licensing authority. This is to ensure that products are safe for human use and do not contain harmful or prohibited substances.

The registration is granted to the brand owner or the authorized agent in India. Each product category must be registered, and details of the manufacturer and the ingredients must be disclosed. The goal is to provide Indian consumers with safe, high-quality international personal care products.

QuickTaxperts provides professional support for cosmetic importers, including assistance with ingredient list analysis, documentation, and managing the application on the SUGAM portal.

• Category: Health & Medical
• Covers products like Creams, Lotions, Lipsticks, Perfumes, and Shampoos.
• Requires a Free Sale Certificate from the country of origin.
• Mandatory testing for heavy metals and microbiological parameters.
• Strict labeling requirements including importer details and veg/non-veg origin.
• Mandatory for all imported cosmetics (Skincare, Haircare, Makeup, etc.)
• Registration certificate issued in Form COS-2
• Requires a valid Manufacturing License from the country of origin
• Must comply with the Cosmetics Rules, 2020

Who can apply for Cosmetic Registration?

The authorized applicants for the license.

• Brand Owner: The foreign manufacturer or the owner of the cosmetic brand.
• Authorized Agent: A registered Indian entity authorized by the manufacturer to handle compliance.
• Subsidiary: The Indian subsidiary of a global cosmetic company.

Documents required

Document requirements vary by entity type, state, premises, and authority. These are the usual groups we verify before submission.

• Cosmetic Checklist: Manufacturing License of the foreign unit (in English).; Free Sale Certificate (FSC) from the national health authority.; Detailed list of ingredients (with concentrations).; Product specification and testing reports.; Labels of the products showing the artwork and claims.; Authorization letter from the manufacturer to the Indian agent.; Power of Attorney for the consultant/agent.

Process and timeline

• Ingredient Review: Checking the product ingredients against the banned substances list in India.
• Document Collection: Gathering the FSC and manufacturing proofs from the international brand.
• SUGAM Filing: Creating an account and submitting the application for registration (Form COS-1).
• Technical Query: Responding to CDSCO's queries regarding specific ingredients or product claims.
• Registration Grant: Receipt of the Registration Certificate in Form COS-2.

Expert review

CDSCO Cosmetic Import License Online content is reviewed by QuickTaxperts FMCG Compliance Team, Cosmetic Regulatory Consultants.

• Checklist-led review
• Document pre-verification
• Authority-specific next steps

Frequently asked questions

These quick answers cover common planning questions before you request a checklist or quote.

• What is CDSCO cosmetic registration?: It is the mandatory registration required to import any cosmetic product into India for sale.
• What is Form COS-2?: Form COS-2 is the official Registration Certificate issued by CDSCO for the import of cosmetics.
• Can an individual import cosmetics for sale?: No, a corporate entity with a valid GST and IEC is required to apply as an authorized agent.
• What is a Free Sale Certificate?: It is a document from the manufacturer's home country stating that the product is legally sold there.
• Is animal testing allowed for cosmetics in India?: No, India has banned the import and sale of cosmetics that have been tested on animals.
• How long is the registration valid?: The CDSCO cosmetic registration is valid for 5 years and must be renewed thereafter.
• What are the labeling requirements?: Labels must show the name of the product, manufacturer details, importer details, batch number, and expiry date.
• How long does the process take?: The entire process usually takes 3 to 6 months depending on document readiness.