CDSCO License for Corneoscleral punch
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
A hand-held, manual ophthalmic surgical instrument designed to excise a segment of tissue from the sclera or cornea of a patient or from grafts taken from cadaver donors.

Comprehensive CDSCO Licensing for Corneoscleral Punch (Class B Ophthalmic Device)
As specialists with over 25 years of experience and having supported more than 500 companies in securing CDSCO approvals, we understand the nuances of navigating India's regulatory landscape for medical devices. The Corneoscleral Punch, a Class B ophthalmic surgical instrument designed for excising tissue segments from the sclera or cornea, falls under the medium-risk category requiring careful compliance with CDSCO requirements. This guide provides practical, step-by-step insights into obtaining the necessary CDSCO manufacturing or import license with clear timelines, costs, and documentation specifics tailored for this device.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Corneoscleral Punch
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) regulates medical devices in India under the Medical Device Rules (MDR) 2017. The Corneoscleral Punch is notified under Fts No. 29/MiscJO3/2020-DC (187) dated 9.8.2021 and classified as a Class B device — moderate risk, requiring a manufacturing license from the State Licensing Authority.
To legally manufacture or import the Corneoscleral Punch in India, manufacturers and importers must comply with the MDR 2017 provisions, including quality management systems, testing, and audits.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Class B Devices
According to CDSCO's risk classification, Class B devices like the Corneoscleral Punch require an MD5 license for manufacturing. This license is granted by the respective State Licensing Authority. Importers require an MD15 license from CDSCO central licensing.
- Manufacturing License: MD5 (Form MD3)
- Testing License: MD13 (pre-requisite for testing products)
- Import License: MD15 (Form MD14)
Our detailed knowledge of these processes ensures efficient handling of all stages from testing to audit and final license grant.
Manufacturing License Process (MD5) for Corneoscleral Punch
The MD5 license process is methodical and typically unfolds over 3 to 4 months:
- Apply for a Test License (MD13): Before the manufacturing license, obtain a test license to allow product testing, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 months.
- Product Testing: Conduct mandatory product testing through CDSCO-approved laboratories to validate compliance. Refer to the Testing Laboratories list for government-approved centers.
- Document Preparation: Compile all required documents, including Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, and Essential Principles checklist.
- Application Submission: Submit the manufacturing license application (Form MD3) via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Audit by Notified Body: Undergo an on-site audit by a notified body to verify compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Consult the Notified Bodies List for authorized auditors.
- Resolve Queries: Address any queries or clarifications raised by CDSCO or the notified body promptly.
- Grant of License: Upon successful audit and documentation review, the MD5 license is issued on Form MD5.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Corneoscleral Punch
Successful applications hinge on thorough and accurate documentation. For the Corneoscleral Punch, ensure the following are prepared:
- Company Constitution (Incorporation Certificate, Memorandum & Articles of Association)
- Proof of Ownership or Lease Agreement for Manufacturing Premises
- Technical Staff Qualification and Experience Details
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File (DMF): Detailed information on device design, specifications, raw materials, and manufacturing process. Learn more from our Device Master File guide.
- Plant Master File (PMF): Details about the manufacturing facility, equipment, and quality control systems. See our Plant Master File guide for preparation tips.
- Essential Principles Compliance Checklist
- Risk Management File applying ISO 14971 principles tailored for ophthalmic devices. Helpful insights available in our Risk Management resource.
- Product Test Reports from CDSCO-approved labs
- Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System (QMS) Documents, preferably ISO 13485:2016 certified
Import License Process (MD15) for Corneoscleral Punch
For importers, the CDSCO mandates an MD15 license granted by the Central Licensing Authority. The process generally lasts 5 to 6 months and involves:
- Document Preparation: Collate manufacturing license of the foreign manufacturer, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485:2016, CE Certificate, Device and Plant Master Files, Wholesale License, and Company Constitution.
- Application Submission: File the application on the CDSCO MD Online Portal using Form MD14.
- Queries Resolution: Promptly respond to any questions or requests for clarification.
- License Grant: MD15 license is issued upon satisfactory evaluation.
Note that unlike manufacturing, no test license (MD13) is required for importers.
Import License Documents Required
Key documents for the MD15 license for Corneoscleral Punch include:
- Valid Manufacturing License of the foreign manufacturer
- Free Sale Certificate from the country of origin
- ISO 13485:2016 Certification
- CE Certificate or equivalent
- Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Wholesale Drug License issued by State Authorities
- Company Constitution and Address Proof
Timeline and Processing Duration
License Type | Timeline (Approximate) |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 to 2 months |
Manufacturing License (MD5) | 3 to 4 months (including test license and audit) |
Import License (MD15) | 5 to 6 months |
Proactive preparation and prompt responses significantly reduce processing delays.
Government Fees and Costs for Corneoscleral Punch Licensing
License Type | Fee Structure |
---|---|
MD5 License | Rs 5,000 per application + Rs 500 per product |
MD13 Test License | Included within MD5 process (no separate fee usually) |
MD15 Import License | Class B: 1,000 per product |
Ensure fees are paid online via the CDSCO portal to avoid any processing delays.
Common Challenges and Solutions
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing Device or Plant Master Files often cause delays. Use our detailed guides to prepare these documents meticulously.
- Audit Non-compliance: Unprepared facilities can fail audits. Schedule mock audits and ensure staff training beforehand.
- Testing Delays: Testing at government labs can be bottlenecked. Plan tests early and consider multiple approved labs.
- Query Resolution: Delayed responses to CDSCO queries prolong timelines. Assign dedicated personnel for regulatory communication.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating the CDSCO licensing for the Corneoscleral Punch can be complex. Our seasoned consultants provide:
- Customized gap assessments
- Document preparation and review
- Audit readiness support
- Liaison with CDSCO and notified bodies
Our proven track record ensures smoother approvals and market entry for your ophthalmic devices.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
To embark on your CDSCO licensing journey for the Corneoscleral Punch:
- Classify your device accurately and confirm risk class using resources like the Medical Device Classification guide.
- Initiate test license application (MD13) via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Engage a notified body early for audit scheduling.
- Prepare comprehensive documentation leveraging our Device and Plant Master File guides.
- Plan product testing at CDSCO-approved labs to avoid last-minute surprises.
- Submit your MD5 application (Form MD3) post testing and document readiness.
- Maintain active communication with regulatory officials and auditors.
With deliberate planning and expert guidance, securing your CDSCO manufacturing or import license for the Corneoscleral Punch can be a streamlined process, unlocking access to the growing Indian ophthalmology market.
For personalized assistance, contact our regulatory consultancy team today and leverage our 25+ years of expertise to fast-track your regulatory compliance.