CDSCO License for Eye muscle sleeve
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
An implantable device made from synthetic materials that is used to encase or isolate an ocular muscle.

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Eye Muscle Sleeve (Class C Medical Device)
As a trusted partner with over 25 years of experience and having supported more than 500 companies in navigating the regulatory landscape, we understand the critical importance of securing a CDSCO license for your medical device. The Eye Muscle Sleeve, an implantable ophthalmic device made from synthetic materials designed to encase or isolate ocular muscles, falls under Class C risk category as per the latest CDSCO framework. This classification mandates a stringent approval process to ensure patient safety and product efficacy.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Eye Muscle Sleeve (Ophthalmology Implant)
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) regulates medical devices in India through a structured licensing system based on risk classification. The Eye Muscle Sleeve is notified under Fts No. 29/MiscJO3/2020-DC (187) dated 9.8.2021, categorizing it as a Class C device. Class C devices generally pose moderate to high risk and require central licensing authority approval, ensuring thorough compliance checks.
Risk Classification and License Requirements
- Device: Eye Muscle Sleeve (implantable ophthalmic device)
- Risk Class: Class C (moderate to high risk)
- Regulatory Pathway: MD9 Manufacturing License (Central Licensing Authority)
- Import License: MD15 (if device is imported)
For Class C devices like the Eye Muscle Sleeve, manufacturers must obtain an MD9 license from CDSCO. This entails a comprehensive process including product testing, documentation review, and audit by CDSCO inspectors.
Manufacturing License Process (MD9) for Eye Muscle Sleeve
The MD9 license process spans approximately 4 to 5 months and involves the following key steps:
- Test License Application (Form MD13): Initiate by applying for a test license, valid for 1.5 to 2 months, allowing necessary product testing.
- Product Testing: Conduct mandatory testing at government-approved laboratories to verify safety and performance. Find Testing Laboratories for your device.
- Documentation Preparation: Compile detailed technical files including Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, and Essential Principles Checklist.
- MD9 License Application (Form MD7): Submit your manufacturing license application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Audit: CDSCO inspectors will conduct a thorough audit of your manufacturing facility and quality management system.
- Query Resolution: Address any observations or queries raised by CDSCO or auditors promptly.
- License Grant: Upon satisfactory compliance, the MD9 license is granted, authorizing manufacturing of the Eye Muscle Sleeve.
Manufacturing License Documents Required
To ensure a smooth application process, prepare the following documents meticulously:
- Company Constitution Documents (e.g., MOA, AOA)
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Technical Personnel Qualifications and Experience
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control Board NOC
- Device Master File detailing design, materials, manufacturing processes (Device Master File Guide)
- Plant Master File describing the manufacturing environment and quality systems (Plant Master File Guide)
- Essential Principles Compliance Checklist
- Risk Management File reflecting hazard analysis and mitigation (Risk Management)
- Test Reports from CDSCO-approved laboratories
- Product Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System documentation (ISO 13485:2016 compliance)
Import License Process (MD15) for Eye Muscle Sleeve
If you are an importer of the Eye Muscle Sleeve, the MD15 license from CDSCO’s Central Licensing Authority is mandatory before market entry. The process takes around 5 to 6 months and includes:
- Preparation of import-specific documents
- Submission of application using Form MD14 via the CDSCO MD Online Portal
- Resolution of departmental queries
- Final grant of import license (Form MD15)
Documents Required for Import License:
- Valid Manufacturing License (MD9) 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
- Company Constitution Documents
Timeline and Processing Duration
Process Step | Estimated Duration |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 – 2 months |
Product Testing | 3 – 4 weeks |
Document Preparation | 3 – 4 weeks |
MD9 License Application | 4 – 5 months total (including audit and query resolution) |
For importers, the MD15 license takes around 5 to 6 months.
Government Fees and Costs
License Type | Fees per Application | Fees per Product |
---|---|---|
MD9 License | INR 50,000 | INR 1,000 |
MD15 License* | Varies by class | Varies by class |
*For import license (MD15), fees vary by device class:
- Class C: USD 3,000 per site + USD 1,500 per product
Note: All fees are payable online through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge: Delays in product testing due to lab bottlenecks.
- Solution: Engage with multiple government-approved labs early to schedule tests promptly. Refer to the Testing Laboratories list.
Challenge: Incomplete or inconsistent documentation leading to queries.
- Solution: Develop a comprehensive Device Master File and Plant Master File well in advance. Utilize our detailed Device Master File Guide and Plant Master File Guide.
Challenge: Audit non-compliance issues related to quality management systems.
- Solution: Implement and maintain ISO 13485:2016 QMS standards rigorously, conduct internal audits, and train staff accordingly.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating the CDSCO licensing pathway for a Class C implantable device like the Eye Muscle Sleeve requires precision, compliance, and strategic planning. Our regulatory experts provide end-to-end support—from initial classification, documentation preparation, test license facilitation, to audit readiness and application submission. Partnering with us ensures:
- Tailored guidance based on your specific device and business model
- Coordination with notified bodies and government labs
- Timely responses to CDSCO queries
- Up-to-date regulatory intelligence reflecting recent policy changes
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
- Assess your Device’s Classification: Confirm the Class C risk status and regulatory requirements using our Medical Device Classification resource.
- Obtain a Test License (MD13): Submit Form MD13 via the CDSCO MD Online Portal to begin product testing.
- Engage Accredited Testing Laboratories: Book your product testing slots early to avoid delays.
- Prepare Comprehensive Documentation: Assemble your Device Master File, Plant Master File, and Risk Management documents.
- Apply for MD9 Manufacturing License: Submit Form MD7 on the CDSCO portal.
- Prepare for Audit: Ensure your facility and QMS comply with CDSCO requirements.
- Respond Promptly to Queries: Expedite the license grant by addressing any CDSCO or auditor concerns quickly.
For importers, initiate the MD15 license application with all necessary import documentation.
By following this detailed, actionable roadmap, manufacturers and importers of the Eye Muscle Sleeve can confidently achieve CDSCO approvals, paving the way for successful market entry in India’s rapidly growing ophthalmology sector.
For further personalized assistance or turnkey regulatory solutions, contact our expert team today and leverage our 25+ years of CDSCO licensing excellence.