6-Month Extension Announced for Class C and Class D Medical devices

On October 12, 2023, the CDSCO released a circular, extending the deadline by six months for manufacturers and importers dealing with non-notified Class C and Class D medical devices. Originally slated for mandatory licensing from October 1, 2023, this extension aims to smoothen the transition. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of the CDSCO circular and guide you through the approval procedures for Class C and Class D medical devices.

CDSCO Addresses the Industry Concern

The circular grants manufacturers and importers of class C and D devices a six-month grace period to continue operations seamlessly. The shift to a fully licensed regime has triggered concern in the medical industry, prompting fears of a potential shortage of medical devices. Various stakeholders voiced apprehensions about the disruption. Acknowledging these concerns, the CDSCO extended the mandatory licensing timeline, allowing those who applied for licenses on or before September 30, 2023, to import or manufacture devices for an additional six months from 01st Oct 23.

Overview of the Registration and Licensing Process

The registration process for medical devices in India is intricate and demands substantial documentation. The CDSCO serves as the central authority, responsible for issuing import and manufacturing licenses for all medical devices. Here's a concise breakdown:

Import Licensing Procedure for Class C and D Medical Devices

– Register on the Sugam portal.
– Pay the prescribed fee.
– Submit an online application on Form-14 with required documents.
– Upon review and satisfaction, CDSCO issues an import license in Form-15.

Procedure for Issuing a Manufacturing License for Class C and D Medical Devices

– Register on the Sugam portal.
– Pay the prescribed fee.
– Submit an online application in Form MD-7 (or MD-8 for loan License) with the necessary documentation.
– Undergo an audit of manufacturing facility by Central Licensing Authority.
– Upon compliance and satisfactory inspection, receive the manufacturing authorization in Form 9 (or MD-10 for loan License).

Conclusion:

The CDSCO’s extension of the licensing period addresses the medical device industry’s concerns, aiming to prevent disruptions in the manufacturing and import of medical devices. This initiative ensures a smoother transition to the new approval regime.

How RSI Supports Class C and D Medical Device Licensing:

If you have still not submitted your application for Class C & D devices, we could assist you with the same. With over a decade of experience in the medical device regulatory domain, RSI has successfully registered 450+ medical devices across all categories and fostered success stories for clients from over 15 countries.

Explore RSI’s spectrum of services:

  1. CDSCO Medical Device Registration
  2. CDSCO Medical Device Import License
  3. Wholesale License/Distributor License for medical devices
  4. Post Approval Changes in Medical Device
  5. Medical Device Label Compliance Review

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FAQ's

1. Who is eligible for the 6-month extension provided by CDSCO?

The extension applies to manufacturers and importers who applied for licenses before September 30, 2023, allowing them to continue importing or manufacturing devices for an additional six months from 1st Oct 23.

2. What is Form-14 used for in the medical device licensing process?

Form-14 is an essential legal application form for obtaining an import license for medical devices in India. It requires submitting necessary documents alongside the application on the Sugam portal.

3. What is Form-15 in the import licensing procedure?

Form-15 is issued by the CDSCO upon a satisfactory review of Form-14, allowing the importation of medical devices into India once approved.

4. What is Form-7 in the medical device licensing process?

Form-7 is an essential application form used to obtain a manufacturing license for medical devices in India.

5. What is the significance of Form-9 in the medical device manufacturing process?

Form-9 is the permission granted upon satisfactory inspection and compliance, signifying the authorization for manufacturing Class C & D medical devices in India.

Transitioning to Full Licensing: Class C and D Medical Devices in India

Introduction:

On April 12, 2023, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) of India released a circular reminding Indian manufacturers and importers that all Class C and Class D non-notified medical devices, currently under mandatory registration, will require a full license starting October 1, 2023. This blog will provide you with an overview of the new licensing regime and assist you in transitioning to the new license requirements.

Full License Requirement for Class C and Class D non-notified medical device

It is important first to understand what is meant by a non-notified medical device. These are medical devices which have fallen under the ambit of the licensing regime after the adoption of the new enlarged definition for Medical Devices by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in Feb 2020. (Not sure whether your device is non-notified or not? We can help)

This full license requirement deadline is the final step for transiting the Class C & Class D non-notified medical devices to the Licensing regime.  Currently, all class C and D non-notified medical devices are exempt from Manufacturing/Import licence and can be manufactured/ imported into India basis their mandatory registration with CDSCO. From October 1, 2023, for such devices, it will compulsory to have a license if you want to introduce your medical device in India.

For medical device importers:

Getting a CDSCO medical device import license in India can take up to six months post the submission of application. The preparation for the application submission is also a time-consuming process and can easily take 1-3 months depending on the level of preparedness of an organization. Hence, it is important that all Class C and Class D non-medical device importers apply for the import license at the earliest to avoid any business disruption post 1st Oct 23.

For medical device manufacturers:

Similarly, obtaining a medical device manufacturing license in India is a time consuming process involving not only the extensive documentation but also an inspection by a Medical Device Officers of the Central Licensing Authority (CLA) within 60 days of application submission. Hence, if you have not started the application process, there is an urgency to do so now to maintain business continuity.

Conclusion:

The transition from mandatory registration to manufacturing/import license for Class C and D non-notified medical devices is the final step towards the full licensing regime for such devices. Manufacturers/importers need to be aware of the new regulation and take proactive steps to obtain a manufacturing/ import license. Given that CDSCO can take up to 6 months to issue a license there is an urgent need for impacted importers/manufacturers to start their application process immediately, if not done till now. Timely compliance will not only avoid disruption in the supply chain but also ensure continued access to these medical devices for patients.

Why Choose Regulatory Solutions India for your regulatory compliance needs?

When it comes to your regulatory compliance needs, Regulatory Solutions India (RSI) stands out as a trusted and reliable choice. With over 12 years of experience and a track record of success since its establishment in 2011, RSI has effectively registered over 400 products in various categories, including medical devices, IVDs, and cosmetics. The satisfaction of our clients from 15+ countries is a testament to our commitment to excellence. With a team of seasoned regulatory professionals, we are well-equipped to handle all your compliance requirements. Our expertise extends to providing technical, strategic, and project management support to ensure your success. Whether you require assistance with CDSCO medical device registration, import licensing procedures, post-approval changes, or dossier preparation, RSI is here to help.

Don't hesitate to contact us for all your regulatory compliance needs.

FAQ

What are Class C and Class D medical devices in India?

According to the Medical Device Rule of 2017, medical devices in India are classified into four categories: Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class D, based on their intended use, level of risk, and other factors. Class C and Class D medical devices are considered to have a moderate to high risk and are subject to stricter regulatory requirements compared to Class A and Class B medical devices.