Starting a business in the healthcare sector—whether it’s manufacturing medical devices, cosmetics, or drugs—requires one important step: regulatory approval. In India, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is the main authority that grants registration for such products. If you want to understand the CDSCO Registration Process for medical devices and related products in simple terms, this guide by Corpbiz is for you.
What is CDSCO?
CDSCO, short for the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization, is the national regulatory body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in India. It oversees the approval, licensing, and monitoring of drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices.
The goal is simple: ensure the safety, quality, and effectiveness of products made available to Indian consumers.
What is the Medical Device Registration Process?
If you are a manufacturer or importer of medical devices in India, you must register your products with CDSCO. This Medical Device Registration Process helps verify that your device meets Indian quality and safety standards.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to the process:
Step 1: Check Classification of Medical Device
CDSCO classifies medical devices into four categories based on risk:
Class A – Low risk (e.g., tongue depressors)
Class B – Low to moderate risk (e.g., hypodermic needles)
Class C – Moderate to high risk (e.g., orthopedic implants)
Class D – High risk (e.g., heart valves)
Understanding your device's class is important because the registration process and authority involved depend on it.
Step 2: Appoint an Authorized Indian Agent (for Foreign Manufacturers)
If you're a foreign manufacturer, you must appoint an Indian Authorised Representative (AR) to handle your CDSCO Registration Process. Corpbiz can assist with this step.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
For registration, you’ll need:
Cover letter
Power of Attorney
ISO 13485 Certificate
Device Master File (DMF)
Free Sale Certificate
Clinical evaluation report
Instruction manuals and product labels
Proof of regulatory approval from other countries (if any)
Step 4: Apply for Registration on CDSCO SUGAM Portal
The SUGAM portal is the online system where manufacturers or importers can apply for registration.
Once documents are uploaded and the fees are paid, CDSCO starts the evaluation process.
Step 5: Review and Approval
CDSCO may ask for clarifications or more documents. Upon satisfaction, CDSCO will grant the registration certificate, generally valid for 5 years.
Why is CDSCO Registration Important?
✅ Ensures public safety
✅ Increases consumer trust
✅ Mandatory for marketing in India
✅ Required for imports and exports
✅ Protects you from legal liabilities
Cosmetic Manufacturing Registration Process
Apart from medical devices, if you're planning to manufacture or import cosmetics in India, CDSCO also regulates this segment.
Here’s a quick overview of the Cosmetic Manufacturing Registration Process:
Apply through the SUGAM portal
Submit key documents like:
Product formula
Label and packaging details
Free Sale Certificate (for imports)
Safety data
Pay the government fees and wait for CDSCO review and approval.
Once granted, your cosmetic product is legally ready for sale in India.
Drug Registration Process
For pharmaceuticals and drugs, the Drug Registration Process is more rigorous.
CDSCO evaluates drugs based on:
Quality
Safety
Clinical trial data
Manufacturing compliance with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices)
Manufacturers must obtain:
Test license (Form 29) for research and development
Manufacturing license (Form 25/28)
New Drug Approval (NDA) for new formulations
Foreign drug makers must go through a registration certificate (Form 41) and import license (Form 10) process.
How Corpbiz Can Help
At Corpbiz, we have a team of legal and regulatory experts who can guide you through:
Medical Device Registration Process
Cosmetic Manufacturing Registration Process
Drug Registration Process
CDSCO Portal Filings and Compliance
We make sure your application is accurate, compliant, and submitted with the right documentation, reducing the chances of delays or rejections.
FAQs
Q1. Who needs to register with CDSCO?
Ans: Anyone who manufactures, imports, or sells medical devices, cosmetics, or drugs in India must register with CDSCO.
Q2. What is the validity of CDSCO registration for medical devices?
Ans: The registration is valid for 5 years.
Q3. Can foreign companies apply for CDSCO registration directly?
Ans: No, they must appoint an Indian Authorised Representative.
Q4. What is the time frame for CDSCO approval?
Ans: The timeline can range from 3 to 9 months depending on the class of the product and the completeness of the documentation.
Q5. What if I sell an unregistered medical device?
Ans: Selling an unregistered medical device is illegal and can lead to fines, product seizures, and even imprisonment.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the CDSCO Registration Process is crucial for launching a compliant and successful healthcare product in India. Whether you’re into medical devices, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals, following the right registration path will help you build credibility and avoid legal trouble.
Need expert help?
Atul Shukla and the Corpbiz team are here to guide you through every step—from classification to certification.
