India’s medical device industry is growing rapidly, with both domestic manufacturing and international imports driving the sector forward. However, importing medical devices into India requires compliance with strict regulatory frameworks governed by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). One of the critical steps in this process is obtaining a Medical Device Import License India. Let’s walk through what this means, why it’s important, and how forms like Form MD-14 and Form MD-15 fit into the process. 

Why Do You Need an Import License in India? 

The CDSCO, operating under India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, regulates the import, manufacture, and distribution of medical devices. As per India’s Medical Device Rules (MDR), 2017, medical devices are classified based on their risk into Class A, B, C, and D. 

For Class A (sterile) and B, Class C, and Class D medical devices, obtaining an Import License is mandatory to ensure that the products meet India’s safety, quality, and performance standards before entering the Indian market. 

The Import License Process in India 

1. Appoint an Indian Authorized Agent 

Foreign manufacturers intending to import medical devices must appoint an Indian entity to act as their Authorized Agent. This entity should hold a valid wholesale or manufacturing license. 

2. Obtain Form MD-42 

Before applying for an import license, the foreign manufacturer must ensure that their Authorized Agent has obtained a Medical Device Registration Certificate (Form MD-42) from CDSCO. This license authorizes the Indian Agent to import, sell, stock, exhibit, or distribute medical devices, including In-Vitro diagnostic devices, to retailers, wholesalers. 

3. Apply for Import License 

The first formal step in the licensing process is the submission of Form MD-14. This application form is submitted to the CDSCO via SUGAM portal, requesting approval to import specific medical devices into India. 

Key information required in Form MD-14 includes: 

• Details of the manufacturer and the Indian Authorized Agent. 

• Device-specific information like classification, intended use, and regulatory status in other countries. 

• Copies of international certifications such as US FDA approval, CE marking, ISO 13485 certificate, etc. 

• Free Sale Certificate from the country of origin. 

• Product master file and device master file. 

 4. CDSCO Review and Grant of Form MD-15 

After reviewing the Form MD-14 application and all supporting documents, the CDSCO will grant the Import License via Form MD-15 if everything is in order. 

The Form MD-15 Import License allows the importer (or their agent) to legally bring the medical devices into India and sell them within the Indian market. 

5. Customs Clearance & Post-Market Surveillance 

Once Form MD-15 is issued, importers can proceed with customs clearance for their medical devices. However, compliance doesn’t end here. Importers must ensure ongoing adherence to India’s post-market surveillance requirements, including reporting adverse events and periodic safety updates to the CDSCO. 

How OMC Medical Can Assist You? 

OMC Medical provides end-to-end support to help manufacturers navigate India’s regulatory landscape. Our services include: 

• Acting as your Indian Authorized Agent and securing Form MD-42 on your behalf. 

• Managing the entire MD-14 and MD-15 submission process. 

• Preparing technical documentation (PMF, DMF, predicate device tables). 

• Assisting in CDSCO communications and ensuring ongoing compliance post-approval. 

With OMC Medical, you’ll gain a trusted regulatory partner to simplify your market entry into India while staying fully compliant. 

1. Who can apply for an MD-42 license?

An Indian entity having valid wholesale or manufacturing license can obtain MD-42 license to import, stock, sell, exhibit or distribute medical devices on behalf of foreign manufacturer.

2. What is the price of Import License in CDSCO?

The fee for CDSCO import license is based on the type and class of the medical device as per Medical Devices Rules, 2017. Additional government fees may apply per manufacturing site and device.

3. How to obtain a medical device licence?

Get a medical device import license by appointing an Indian Authorized Agent, submitting Form MD-14 with the technical documents on the CDSCO SUGAM portal and receiving the import license in Form MD-15 on CDSCO approval.

4. What is the duty rate for medical devices?

In India, import duty on medical devices is calculated based on the product’s HS code, classification and other applicable customs notifications. Importers should check the latest rates of customs duty and IGST before the shipment.