CDSCO License for Intraocular lens guide
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
An intraocular lens guide is a device intended to be inserted into the eye during surgery to direct the insertion of an intraocular lens and be removed after insertion is completed.

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Intraocular Lens Guide (Class B Medical Device)
As seasoned regulatory consultants with over 25 years of experience and having supported 500+ medical device companies in India, we understand the critical importance of timely and compliant CDSCO licensing for ophthalmic devices like the Intraocular Lens Guide. This device, classified as Class B under CDSCO regulations, plays an essential role in eye surgeries by guiding the insertion of intraocular lenses.
Understanding the Intraocular Lens Guide and Its Regulatory Importance
An Intraocular Lens Guide is designed to be inserted temporarily during eye surgeries to ensure the precise placement of intraocular lenses. Given its direct interaction with ocular tissues, regulatory oversight ensures patient safety, device efficacy, and adherence to Indian medical device standards. The CDSCO notification Fts No. 29/MiscJO3/2020-DC (187) dated 9.8.2021 officially classifies this device under Risk Class B.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Intraocular Lens Guide
In India, medical devices are regulated by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). The classification system ranges from Class A (low risk) to Class D (high risk). Intraocular Lens Guides fall under Class B, which requires a manufacturing license granted by the State Licensing Authority through the MD5 License process. This ensures adequate controls over the quality and safety of the device.
Risk Classification and License Requirements: Class B Device
As a Class B device, the Intraocular Lens Guide requires:
- Obtaining a Test License (Form MD13) to conduct product testing from CDSCO-approved laboratories.
- Manufacturing License (MD5) application (Form MD3) submitted to the State Licensing Authority.
- Audit by a notified body to verify compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and the Quality Management System (QMS).
This process safeguards that the device meets the Essential Principles of Safety and Performance.
Manufacturing License Process (MD5 License) for Intraocular Lens Guide
The MD5 license application is a multi-step process:
- Test License Application (Form MD13): Initiate by applying for a test license via the CDSCO MD Online Portal. This license allows you to legally manufacture limited quantities for testing.
- Product Testing: Have the device tested at government-approved labs. Refer to the list of CDSCO Testing Laboratories for accredited facilities.
- Document Preparation: Compile all required documentation including Device Master File (DMF), Plant Master File (PMF), risk management files, and QMS documents.
- License Application (Form MD3): Submit the manufacturing license application along with supporting documents.
- Audit by Notified Body: A notified body, selected from the CDSCO Notified Bodies List, will audit your manufacturing site and documentation.
- Query Resolution: Address any queries raised by the authority or notified body promptly.
- Grant of License: Upon successful compliance, the MD5 license is granted.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Intraocular Lens Guide
Prepare the following essential documents meticulously:
- Company Constitution Documents: Certificate of incorporation, Memorandum and Articles of Association.
- Proof of Ownership of Premises: Lease agreement or ownership documents.
- Technical Staff Details: Qualification and experience certificates of responsible technical personnel.
- Fire Safety and Pollution NOCs: Clearance certificates from relevant authorities.
- Device Master File (DMF): Detailed design, manufacturing processes, and specifications. Our Device Master File guide can help in preparation.
- Plant Master File (PMF): Description of the manufacturing facility and equipment. See our Plant Master File guide for best practices.
- Essential Principles Checklist: Compliance matrix with regulatory standards.
- Risk Management File: Documented risk analysis and mitigation strategies as per ISO 14971. Learn more in our Risk Management guide.
- Test Reports: From CDSCO-approved labs.
- Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU): Compliant with Indian labeling regulations.
- Quality Management System (QMS) Documents: ISO 13485 certification and internal SOPs.
Import License Process (MD15) for Intraocular Lens Guide
If you intend to import the Intraocular Lens Guide into India, you must obtain an MD15 import license from the Central Licensing Authority. The process includes:
- Document preparation including valid manufacturing license from the country of origin, Free Sale Certificate, CE Certificate (if applicable), ISO 13485:2016 certificate.
- Submission of application on Form MD14 through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Addressing departmental queries.
- License issuance on Form MD15.
Note: No test license is required for import licenses, but document scrutiny is stringent.
Import License Documents Required
Key documents for import of Class B devices like the Intraocular Lens Guide include:
- Manufacturing License from the country of origin.
- Free Sale Certificate.
- ISO 13485:2016 and CE certificates.
- Device Master File and Plant Master File.
- Wholesale Drug License (if applicable).
- Company Constitution documents.
Timeline and Processing Duration for Intraocular Lens Guide Licensing
- Test License (MD13): 1.5 to 2 months.
- Product Testing: Typically 1 to 2 months depending on lab workload.
- MD5 Manufacturing License: 3 to 4 months including audit and query resolution.
Overall, expect a total duration of approximately 3 to 4 months from test license initiation to license grant for manufacturing.
Government Fees and Costs
- MD5 Test License (MD13): Rs. 5,000 per application.
- MD5 Manufacturing License Application: Rs. 5,000 initial fee plus Rs. 500 per product.
- Additional costs include notified body audit fees (varies by body) and testing laboratory charges.
Our MD5 License guide provides detailed cost breakdowns.
Common Challenges and Solutions
- Delays in Testing: Labs may have backlogs; plan testing schedules early.
- Document Non-Compliance: Ensure documents, especially DMF and PMF, are detailed and updated.
- Audit Findings: Prepare your quality systems thoroughly; conduct internal audits before notified body visits.
- Query Resolution Delays: Respond promptly with complete information to avoid processing delays.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating CDSCO licensing for ophthalmic devices like the Intraocular Lens Guide requires expertise and experience. Our regulatory consultants provide end-to-end support from documentation to audit readiness and query handling, ensuring smooth and timely approvals.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
- Evaluate Your Device Classification: Confirm Class B status using the Medical Device Classification tool.
- Initiate Test License Application: Register on the CDSCO MD Online Portal and submit Form MD13.
- Engage a Notified Body Early: Choose a notified body from the official list to align audit schedules.
- Prepare Key Documents: Utilize our DMF and PMF guides to assemble compliant documentation.
- Plan Your Testing: Book slots at CDSCO-approved labs and prepare the device samples.
- Monitor Timelines: Track each step diligently to meet regulatory expectations.
By following these carefully designed steps and leveraging our in-depth experience, manufacturers and importers can successfully obtain their CDSCO licenses and bring their Intraocular Lens Guide devices to the Indian market with confidence.