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Know More About Cosmetic Licence Registration
Introduction and Its Compliance
In India, the manufacturing, import, sale or distribution of cosmetics requires a valid Cosmetic Licence under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Cosmetics Rules, 2020. These regulations are enforced by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) and respective State Licensing Authorities to ensure consumer safety, product quality and compliance with national standards. Whether you're an Indian manufacturer or a foreign brand looking to enter the Indian market, obtaining the right licence is mandatory. Lawfinity India Private Limited provides expert guidance and professional support to businesses seeking a cosmetic manufacturing or import licence. We help you navigate complex regulatory procedures, compile the right documents and liaise with authorities to ensure your business is fully compliant and future-ready.
Why It Is Needed
Cosmetics directly affect human skin and health. Hence, their ingredients, formulation and packaging are regulated by law. A valid Cosmetic Licence ensures that your products meet the required safety and labelling standards before reaching consumers. For both local manufacturers and importers, this licence acts as legal proof of compliance, allowing you to operate smoothly in the highly competitive beauty and personal care market. Lawfinity India Private Limited makes this regulatory journey simple, so you can focus on branding and distribution while we handle the legalities.
Benefits and Advantages
- Legal Market Entry A Cosmetic Licence provides the legal authorization needed to manufacture, import or sell cosmetics in India. It helps your business comply with Indian regulations and prevents product seizures, penalties or restrictions from drug regulatory authorities.
- Consumer Safety Compliance With a valid licence, your cosmetic products are ensured to meet quality, labelling and BIS standards. This safeguards public health, enhances product safety and builds strong consumer confidence in your brand’s credibility and commitment to compliance.
- Competitive Edge Licensing improves your brand’s reputation and trustworthiness, making it easier to enter high-end retail chains, online marketplaces and global beauty markets. It demonstrates professional standards and gives you a clear edge over unlicensed competitors.
- Business Expansion A Cosmetic Licence allows smoother addition of new products, including medicated cosmetics or ayurvedic formulations, under regulatory approvals. It supports scalability and multi-category diversification without facing delays or compliance issues during market expansion.
- Avoid Regulatory Action Proper licensing keeps your operations compliant, preventing fines, business closure or legal notices from CDSCO or State Authorities. It also protects your brand from damage caused by forced product recalls or public safety violations.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a Cosmetic Licence in India, the applicant must:
- Be a registered business entity (proprietorship, partnership, LLP or private limited company).
- Have a physical premise with adequate space, sanitary conditions and necessary equipment.
- Appoint a qualified technical person (with a degree in Pharmacy, Science or Chemistry).
- For importers: Have an authorized Indian agent, along with a valid Free Sale Certificate from the exporting country.
- The product must conform to BIS standards and labeling guidelines as per Rule 34 of the Cosmetics Rules, 2020.
Documents Required
For Cosmetic Manufacturing Licence (Form COS-8):
- Application in Form COS-5
- Company PAN and proof of constitution (MOA/AOA/Partnership deed)
- Proof of premises (ownership or rent agreement)
- Site plan and layout of the manufacturing unit
- Details of machinery and quality control setup
- Qualification and experience certificates of technical staff
- Product specifications and testing protocols
- Water testing report for manufacturing use
- Affidavit of compliance and non-conviction
For Cosmetic Import Licence (Form COS-2):
- Application in Form COS-1
- Covering letter with product details
- Free Sale Certificate from exporting country
- Label and product artwork
- Ingredients list with concentration
- Product specifications and safety data
- Power of Attorney (if foreign applicant)
- Authorization letter from manufacturer
- Fee receipt for online payment
Steps for Getting Registration
- Initial Consultation: We evaluate your product range, business structure and identify the right type of cosmetic licence.
- Document Preparation: Lawfinity collects and verifies all required documents, formats declarations and prepares forms as per CDSCO guidelines.
- Online Application: We file your application on the Sugam Portal (CDSCO) or with the State Licensing Authority.
- Fee Payment: Prescribed government fees are paid online with payment confirmation submitted.
- Site Inspection (for Manufacturing): Drug Inspectors visit the site to verify setup, compliance and technical personnel.
- Approval & Grant: After document scrutiny and inspection clearance, the licence is issued via digital certificate or hard copy.
- Post-licence Support: Lawfinity assists with any follow-up, renewals, modifications and periodic compliance updates.
Penalties
- Seizure of products by regulatory authorities
- Fines up to ₹3 lakhs under Sections 26 and 27 of the Act
- Imprisonment up to 3 years for serious violations
- Ban on further imports or cancellation of manufacturing licence
- Product recall and defamation in the market
Timelines
Cosmetic Manufacturing Licence (Form COS-8)
Around 30 to 60 working days after site inspection.
Cosmetic Import Licence (Form COS-2)
Around 20 to 45 working days depending on product categories and document accuracy.
*Delays may occur if documents are incomplete or if inspection reports are unsatisfactory.
Timelines may vary depending on document verification and government approvals.
Fee
Frequently Asked Questions
Because every great business starts with the right answers.
Cosmetic licences are issued by the CDSCO (for imports) and State Licensing Authorities (for manufacturing) under the Cosmetics Rules, 2020.
Yes. A valid cosmetic licence is required to manufacture, import or sell cosmetic products in India as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
No. Importing cosmetics without a valid COS-2 licence is illegal and will result in product seizure by customs.
Key documents include Free Sale Certificate, ingredient list, label artwork and authorization letter from the foreign manufacturer.
Cosmetic licences remain valid unless suspended or cancelled. However, periodic compliance and renewals for imported products may be required.
It is a certificate from the country of origin stating that the product is freely sold and approved in that country. Mandatory for imports.
Yes, for specific categories of cosmetics listed under BIS standards (like hair oils, powders, toothpaste), certification is compulsory.
Yes. Applications are filed through the Sugam Portal of CDSCO. Lawfinity can assist you with the entire digital process.
Lawfinity offers complete legal and technical support—right from classification, documentation, application filing and site inspection assistance to final licence grant and renewals.
Voices of Success
Hear from those who have thrived with us and discover how businesses have transformed and grown with our expert guidance and support.
Anil Yadav
Shaperz India Grain Private Limited
“From FSSAI to Trade License, Lawfinity handled all our approvals efficiently. One-stop solution for all licensing needs.”
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