CDSCO License for Corneal light shield
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
A device, typically made of a non- abrasive fluid-absorbing material that is placed on the surface of the cornea to shield the retina from excessive illumination during an ophthalmic procedure.

Introduction to Corneal Light Shield and Regulatory Importance
The Corneal Light Shield is a critical ophthalmic device designed to protect the retina from excessive illumination during eye procedures. Made from non-abrasive, fluid-absorbing materials, it ensures patient safety by preventing potential phototoxic damage. Given its direct application on the cornea, the device falls under Class B risk category, necessitating stringent regulatory compliance in India.
Navigating the CDSCO licensing process is vital for manufacturers and importers aiming to market this device in India. With over 25 years of experience and having supported 500+ companies, we understand the nuances of regulatory requirements and can guide you through each step to ensure timely and successful license approval.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Corneal Light Shield
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) regulates medical devices under the Medical Device Rules 2017. The Corneal Light Shield, classified as Class B, requires a manufacturing license issued by the State Licensing Authority under the MD5 license category (Application Form MD3).
The regulatory framework mandates:
- Compliance with Essential Principles of Safety and Performance
- Submission of Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Risk Management documentation tailored for ophthalmic devices
- Testing from CDSCO-approved laboratories
This comprehensive oversight ensures that the Corneal Light Shield meets the quality, safety, and efficacy standards demanded by Indian regulations.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Corneal Light Shield
According to the Medical Device Classification guidelines, the Corneal Light Shield is classified as Class B due to its contact with the eye's surface but non-invasive nature.
For Class B devices:
- License Type: MD5 (Manufacturing License)
- Issuing Authority: State Licensing Authority
- Application Form: MD3
This classification influences the documentation, testing, audit, and fee structure uniquely applicable to your device.
Manufacturing License Process (MD5) for Corneal Light Shield
The MD5 manufacturing license process typically spans 3 to 4 months and involves the following key stages:
Test License Application (Form MD13): Initiate by obtaining a test license, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 months. This allows you to legally manufacture limited quantities for testing.
Product Testing: Send the Corneal Light Shield samples to government-approved testing laboratories for verification of material safety, biocompatibility, and performance. Refer to the Testing Laboratories list for authorized labs.
Document Preparation: Compile comprehensive technical dossiers including Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, Essential Principles Checklist, and Quality Management System (QMS) documents.
License Application Submission: Submit the MD5 license application through the CDSCO MD Online Portal using Form MD3.
Audit by Notified Body: A notified body from the official Notified Bodies List will conduct a plant audit to verify compliance.
Query Resolution: Address any deficiencies or queries raised by the State Licensing Authority or the notified body promptly.
Grant of MD5 License: Upon satisfactory compliance, the license is granted in Form MD5, allowing full-scale manufacturing.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Corneal Light Shield
To ensure a smooth application process, prepare the following documents meticulously:
- Company Constitution Documents: Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Technical Staff Qualifications and Experience Certificates: Qualified personnel details
- Fire and Pollution NOCs: Compliance with local environmental and safety regulations
- Device Master File: Detailed device specifications, manufacturing process, and materials (Device Master File Guide)
- Plant Master File: Description of manufacturing facilities and quality systems (Plant Master File Guide)
- Essential Principles of Safety and Performance Checklist
- Risk Management File: Risk analysis and mitigation strategies specific to the Corneal Light Shield (Risk Management)
- Test Reports: From CDSCO-approved laboratories confirming device safety and performance
- Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU): Compliant with Indian regulatory standards
- Quality Management System Documents: ISO 13485 certification and SOPs
Import License Process (MD15) for Corneal Light Shield
If you intend to import the Corneal Light Shield, an MD15 import license from the Central Licensing Authority is mandatory. This process typically takes 5 to 6 months.
Key steps include:
Document Preparation: Assemble documents including the manufacturing license from the country of origin, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485 certification, CE Certificate (if applicable), Device Master File, Plant Master File, Wholesale License, and Company Constitution.
Application Submission: File the application on the CDSCO MD Online Portal using Form MD14.
Query Resolution: Respond to any queries raised by CDSCO promptly.
Grant of Import License: MD15 license is issued permitting import and sale within India.
Import License Documents Required
The import license application must include:
- Manufacturing License from the country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate
- ISO 13485:2016 certification
- CE Certificate (if applicable)
- Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Wholesale License issued by State Authorities
- Company Constitution documents
Timeline and Processing Duration
Process Stage | Duration |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 – 2 months |
Product Testing | 3 – 4 weeks |
Document Preparation | 2 – 3 weeks |
MD5 License Application & Audit | 1.5 – 2 months |
Total Duration | Approximately 3 – 4 months |
For import license (MD15), expect approximately 5 to 6 months total processing time.
Government Fees and Costs
For the Corneal Light Shield (Class B), the fees are as follows:
- MD5 License: Rs. 5,000 per application plus Rs. 500 per product
- Test License (MD13): Included in the overall process
Additional costs may include:
- Testing laboratory fees (varies by test scope)
- Notified body audit charges
- Consultancy fees if availing expert support
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge: Delays due to incomplete documentation
Solution: Utilize detailed checklists and templates from our MD5 License Guide to ensure completeness before submission.
Challenge: Difficulty in sourcing CDSCO-approved testing laboratories
Solution: Refer to the official Testing Laboratories directory and plan sample shipments early to avoid delays.
Challenge: Audit non-conformities
Solution: Conduct internal mock audits and maintain updated QMS documents aligned with ISO 13485 before notified body inspections.
Expert Consultation and Support
Our seasoned team provides end-to-end support, including:
- Gap analysis of technical documentation
- Assistance in test license and MD5 application preparation
- Coordination with notified bodies and testing labs
- Post-approval compliance management
With over two decades of regulatory expertise, we streamline your approval journey, reducing lead times and minimizing compliance risks.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application for Corneal Light Shield
Conduct a Preliminary Assessment: Review your current manufacturing setup and documentation against CDSCO requirements.
Apply for Test License (MD13): Submit this first via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Arrange Product Testing: Book slots at CDSCO-approved labs early to avoid bottlenecks.
Prepare Comprehensive Dossier: Follow our guides on Device Master File and Plant Master File to compile robust technical documentation.
Submit MD5 Application (Form MD3): After successful testing, file your manufacturing license application.
Prepare for Audit: Coordinate with a notified body and ensure your facility is ready.
Respond to Queries Promptly: Stay engaged with the licensing authority and auditors.
Starting early and leveraging expert guidance will position you for a successful CDSCO license grant, enabling your Corneal Light Shield to reach the Indian ophthalmology market confidently and compliantly.