Medical Device Import and Manufacturing Services (CDSCO)
🏛️ Regulatory Overview
In India, the regulation of medical devices is governed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, through the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) under the provisions of the Medical Devices Rules, 2017.
Licenses for import and manufacturing of medical devices are issued by the following authorities based on the device class:
🔹 Import Licenses
All classes of medical devices—Class A, B, C, and D—are regulated centrally.
➡️ Import licenses are issued by the Central Licensing Authority (CLA) under CDSCO.
🔹 Manufacturing Licenses
Issuance of manufacturing licenses depends on the classification of the medical device:
Device Class-
|
Licensing Authority
|
Class A & B-
|
State Licensing Authority (SLA)
|
Class C & D-
|
Central Licensing Authority (CLA)
|
This tiered approach ensures that lower-risk devices are handled at the state level for faster approvals, while higher-risk devices undergo more detailed scrutiny at the central level.
Our team at IKargos works closely with both State and Central authorities to ensure smooth, compliant processing of your license applications.
Medical Device Import and Manufacturing Services
At IKargos, we specialize in providing comprehensive services for medical device importation and manufacturing, ensuring compliance with all regulatory frameworks and quality standards. Whether you are an overseas manufacturer entering a new market or a domestic player looking to expand operations, we support you throughout the regulatory and operational journey.
✅ Scope of Services
1. Medical Device Import Services
We help companies legally import medical devices into India, in full compliance with national regulatory bodies such as CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organization).
Key Services:
- Regulatory strategy and risk classification
- Import license application (e.g., Form MD-14 / MD-15)
- Coordination with authorized Indian agents
- Customs clearance support
- Labelling and packaging validation
- Post-market surveillance & adverse event reporting
2. Medical Device Manufacturing Services
From facility licensing to production and quality assurance, we support full-cycle medical device manufacturing under applicable rules like the Medical Devices Rules, 2017 (India) or equivalent jurisdictional laws.
Key Services:
- Manufacturing license (Form MD-5 / MD-9)
- Facility layout, validation & GMP compliance
- Device classification and documentation
- ISO 13485 QMS setup & audit support
- Clinical evaluation and safety data generation
- Sterilization and packaging compliance
Securing a CDSCO import license for medical devices provides several advantages:
- Assurance of compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Guarantees product safety and quality.
- Expands market opportunities.
- Enhances consumer protection by upholding quality standards.
Licenses for import and manufacturing of medical devices are issued by the following authorities based on the device class:
🔹 Import Licenses
All classes of medical devices—Class A, B, C, and D—are regulated centrally.
➡️ Import licenses are issued by the Central Licensing Authority (CLA) under CDSCO.
🔹 Manufacturing Licenses
Issuance of manufacturing licenses depends on the classification of the medical device:
Device Class-
|
Licensing Authority
|
Class A & B-
|
State Licensing Authority (SLA)
|
Class C & D-
|
Central Licensing Authority (CLA)
|
This tiered approach ensures that lower-risk devices are handled at the state level for faster approvals, while higher-risk devices undergo more detailed scrutiny at the central level.
Our team at IKargos works closely with both State and Central authorities to ensure smooth, compliant processing of your license applications.
🗂️ Documentation Required
Depending on the device class (A, B, C, or D) and service (import or manufacture), the following documents are typically required:
📦 For Importers (Form MD-14/15):
- Power of Attorney / Letter of Authorization
- Free Sale Certificate from country of origin
- ISO 13485 certificate of manufacturer
- CE/FDA/TGA approval copies (if applicable)
- Plant Master File (PMF)
- Undertaking for post-market surveillance
- Device labels and IFU (Instructions for Use)
🏭 For Manufacturers (Form MD-5/MD-9):
- Site Master File / Facility layout
- Quality Manual (ISO 13485:2016)
- Risk Management File (ISO 14971)
- Device design and product specifications
- SOPs for sterilization, validation & recalls
- Equipment calibration logs
- Bio-compatibility and clinical safety data
- Audit records & internal training logs
⏱️ Timelines for Approval
Here’s an overview of estimated timelines for approval under normal conditions:
Activity
|
Timeline
|
Import License (Class A/B/C/D)
|
3-4 Months
|
Manufacturing License (Class A/B)
|
6–8 weeks
|
Manufacturing License (Class C/D)
|
10–16 weeks (includes inspection)
|
CDSCO Site Inspection (if required)
|
2–3 weeks
|
ISO 13485 Certification (if not present)
|
2-3 weeks
|
⚠️ Note: Timelines may vary based on device class, completeness of documents, and regulatory workload.
💰 Government Fees
Fees are prescribed by CDSCO (or relevant authority) based on device class and type of application.
📦 Import License (per application):
- Class A Medical Devices: $1,000 per site and Per device $ 50.
- Class B Medical Devices: $2,000 per site and Per device $ 1000.
- Class C and D Medical Devices: $3,000 per site and Per device $ 1500.
- Class A or Class B in vitro diagnostic: $ 1000 Per site and per device $ 10
- Class C or Class D in vitro diagnostic: $ 3000 Per site and per device $ 500
🏭 Manufacturing License:
- Class A/B (per site): ₹5,000 and Per Product ₹500.
- Class C/D (per site): ₹50,000 and Per product ₹1000.
💡 Fees are subject to periodic revisions by the government. We will guide you with the latest official fee structure.
📋 Our End-to-End Process
- Consultation & Classification
We begin by evaluating your product and identifying its regulatory classification.
- Documentation Preparation
We help you compile, review, and submit all mandatory files.
- Application Submission
Applications are filed online through the CDSCO SUGAM portal or equivalent.
- Regulatory Review & Response
We coordinate with regulators and provide clarifications if needed.
- Approval & Compliance
Once approved, we ensure labeling, PMS, and market compliance is maintained.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is India's National Regulatory Authority under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It is responsible for regulating medical devices to ensure their safety quality and efficacy. Medical device registration with CDSCO is mandatory for manufacturers and importers to legally market and sell their devices in India, protecting public health and ensuring compliance with the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Medical Device Rules.
The Medical Devices Rules, 2017 define a broad range of items as "medical devices," including:-
• In-vitro diagnostic substances.
• Surgical dressings.
• Contraceptives.
• Disinfectants.
• Devices used for diagnosis, treatment or prevention of diseases in humans or animals.
Essentially, any instrument, apparatus, implement, machine, appliance, implant, reagent for in vitro use, software, material or other similar or related article intended by the manufacturer to be used alone or in combination, for humans or animals for one or more of the specific medical purposes.
Medical devices in India are classified as:-
• Class A: Low Risk.
• Class B: Low-Moderate Risk.
• Class C: Moderate-High Risk.
• Class D: High Risk.
The classification determines the regulatory requirements and the licensing authority.
Typically, the following entities are involved in the CDSCO registration process:-
• Manufacturers: Both domestic and foreign manufacturers of medical devices.
• Importers: Entities that import medical devices into India.
Foreign manufacturers are usually required to appoint an Authorized Agent in India to facilitate the registration process.
Obtaining CDSCO registration offers several advantages:-
• Legal Market Access: Allows you to legally sell and market your medical devices in the Indian market.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to Indian laws and regulations, avoiding penalties and legal issues.
• Enhanced Credibility: Builds trust with healthcare professionals and consumers, showcasing your commitment to safety and quality.
• Market Expansion: Opens up opportunities to tap into the growing Indian healthcare market.
The general process for obtaining a CDSCO import license involves:-
1. Preparation of Documentation: Compiling all the necessary technical and regulatory documents.
2. Online Application Submission: Submitting the application through the designated CDSCO online portal (e.g., SUGAM).
3. Application Review: CDSCO authorities review the submitted application and documentation.
4. Query Resolution: Addressing any queries or requests for additional information from CDSCO.
5. License Grant: Upon successful review, CDSCO grants the import license.
The required documents can vary depending on the device classification. However, some common documents include:-
• Manufacturing license from the country of origin.
• Device description and specifications.
• Safety and performance data.
• Clinical trial data (if required).
• Quality management system (QMS) information.
• Labeling and packaging information.
• Post-market surveillance plan.
• And other documents as per CDSCO guidelines.
iKargos can provide a detailed document checklist tailored to your specific device.
The fees and timelines for CDSCO registration may vary based on the device classification and the complexity of the application. Contact iKargos for a customized quotation and timeline estimate.
The validity of the CDSCO registration can vary. It's essential to confirm the current validity period with CDSCO regulations or through consultation with iKargos. Re-registration is required to continue marketing the device in India.
Some common challenges include:-
• Complex regulatory requirements.
• Extensive documentation requirements.
• Navigating the CDSCO portal and processes.
• Meeting timelines and addressing queries effectively.
iKargos can help you overcome these challenges by providing:-
• Expert guidance on regulatory pathways.
• Assistance with document preparation and submission.
• Management of the entire registration process.
• Effective communication with CDSCO authorities.
Yes, iKargos can facilitate the CDSCO registration process including assisting with the Authorized Agent requirements.
To begin your CDSCO medical device registration journey with iKargos, please contact our dedicated team:-
• Rekha Atri: +91 98118 03136.
• Manju Laur: +91 9711994042.
• Kapish Laur: +91- 99717 70603.