The terms cosmetic import license and cosmetic import registration are often used interchangeably in India, but legally, the CDSCO follows a registration-based approval system.
Under the Cosmetics Rules, 2020, importers apply through Form COS-1, and after approval, CDSCO issues an Import Registration Certificate in Form COS-2. This COS-2 certificate legally authorizes the import and sale of cosmetic products in India.
In practice, businesses commonly refer to this approval as a cosmetic import license. However, from a regulatory standpoint, CDSCO grants registration approval, not a traditional license.
👉 For a detailed explanation of the CDSCO COS-1 & COS-2 process, eligibility, documentation, and compliance requirements, refer to our
👉 Cosmetic import registration process in India