Introduction:

presence globally but their shipment got stuck at Mumbai port during their attempted launch in India. Why? Because they did not have a CDSCO Import License for Cosmetic products.  

This happens much more frequently than one would think. Whether you are a new Indian startup marketing herbal shampoos or a large multinational importing luxury perfumes, you cannot afford to ignore the proper Cosmetic License. Why? Because it is compliance!! What do I mean by compliance? All cosmetics sold in India require a license according to the compliance requirement of India's Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.

Let's explain the meaning of a license, why the license is important, and how to avoid unnecessary delays with the license process.

What is a Cosmetic License in India?

A Cosmetic License is the official permission given to an organization by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) allowing them to manufacture, import, or distribute cosmetics in India.

It is like a "passport" for your cosmetic label; without it, your products cannot legally be sold on retail shelves, e-Commerce platforms and salons in India.

Why Do You Need an Import License for Cosmetic Products?

International brands like The Body Shop, L’Oréal, and K-Beauty brands can't come to India, pack their bags, and use the postal service to supply products, and sell them to consumers. Before they can put product on the market, they must first get every imported cosmetic product registered with the CDSCO and get an Import License. 

The Import License for Cosmetic allows for the following:

• Consumer Protection (meaning ingredients are in accordance with standards).

• No harmful chemicals in products, nor banned substances.

• Ingredient upon proper Labelling (as recommended by the BIS and CDSCO)

• Legal clearance at customs.

CDSCO Import License: Step-by-Step Process

The CDSCO has digitalised a lot of licensing and approval aspects of the SUGAM portal, however, all one can say, is that it is a very long process still. Here is the first-hand experience: 

A lot of documentation, including some of the following relevant examples: 

Step 1: Determine the License Type

• Form 42 – For import of cosmetics.

• Form 31 – For manufacturing in India.
  
  

Step 2: Appoint an Indian Authorised Agent

Foreign brands must appoint an Indian entity as their agent to interact with CDSCO.

Step 3: Prepare Documents

Common documents required:

• Power of Attorney from the manufacture.

• Product formulation and ingredients. 

• Free Sale Certificate (from market country).

• Labels, artwork, and packaging evidences.

• 3rd-party Order details.
  
  

Step 4: Apply via SUGAM Portal

The application is uploaded with fees 

Step 5: CDSCO Scrutiny & Approval

Officials may ask clarifications or require lab tests. Once cleared, you receive the CDSCO Import License, typically valid for 3 years.

Real-World Example: How Delays Cost Brands

One of our clients, a French perfume label, experienced an entire festive season lost due to their Import License being in limbo because they needed a Free Sale Certificate. Competitors had launched during Diwali, while our client's products launched in January and lost critical sales momentum.

Documents Checklist for Cosmetic License

Here’s a simple checklist:

•  Application Form (Form 42 / Form 31)

•  Power of Attorney

•  List of products (shade-wise for makeup)

•  Free Sale Certificate (FSC)

•  Manufacturing site documents

•  Label samples with ingredient details

•  Fee receipt

Cost & Timelines for Cosmetic License in India

• Application Fees: ~₹50,000 per category (import)

• Timeline: 3–6 months (if documents are complete)

• Validity: 3 years, renewable

Compare this with the US FDA system where licenses are quicker but stricter. India’s CDSCO focuses heavily on documentation, not just product testing.

Mistakes to avoid:-

• Submitting incomplete ingredient lists.

• Using foreign labels without translation.

• No authorised Indian agent for communication.

• Waiting until the shipment arrives before applying 

Conclusion: Cosmetic License & CDSCO Import License

Whether its a global brand or an Indian startup, having a Cosmetic License and CDSCO Import License for Cosmetic products is necessary. It protects your brand, ensures consumer safety, and opens up access to the beauty market in India.

Why Choose Diligence Certifications ?

Diligence Certifications is trusted, because we take away from you a complex and time-consuming process. With many years of dealing with CDSCO approvals, we make sure that your Cosmetic License or Import License for Cosmetic runs smoothly and is free of unnecessary delays and rejections. Our clients deal with us because we offer regulatory knowledge, combined with a practical and transparent approach; essentially making regulatory compliance stress-free and having brands enter the Indian market quicker.