08/05/2024
How to Get an ISBN in India
If you're an author or publisher, it's vital to secure an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) for your work. An ISBN is a unique 13-digit code used for recognition and tracking globally. This guide offers a comprehensive look at the ISBN, its importance, the application process, and its benefits.
ISBN Application Process in India
To acquire an ISBN, follow these steps:
1. Find the official ISBN agency in India.
2. Gather the necessary documents.
3. Understand the Cost of ISBN registration in India.
4. Obtain Final Approval for ISBN Allocation.
1. The Official ISBN Agency in India
The Raja Ram Mohan Roy National Agency is India's designated agency for ISBN issuance, playing a critical role in streamlining the publishing process in the country. Each country worldwide has only one official ISBN agency appointed by the ISBN International Organization.
2. Required Documentation for ISBN Application
Ensure you have essential documents such as book title details, author information, edition, and print format. You will need to register an account on the ISBN agency's website. There are two account types: "Author" for self-publishers and "Book Publisher" for registered businesses in India with a GST number.
For an author account, provide government-issued ID and address proofs like Aadhaar card, passport, PAN card, and rental agreement or utility bill.
3. Registration Costs
While ISBN registration is free in India, restrictions are in place to maintain authenticity and prevent misuse.
4. Final ISBN Approval
Self-publishers can acquire one ISBN at a time, with an allocation process taking at least 7 days. Once approved, visit the ISBN agency's website to input book metadata for publishing. Notifications will be sent for each action, excluding the ISBN allocation, which you must check manually.
For registered businesses with a book publisher account, bulk ISBN options are available - 10 or 100 ISBNs. This service is exclusively for book publishers.