License ยท Business License
ISBN/ISSN Registration
Unique identifier registration for books and periodicals.
What is ISBN/ISSN Registration?
ISBN (for books) and ISSN (for periodicals/serials) are unique international identifier numbers assigned to publications, required for listing in bookstores, libraries, and online marketplaces, issued in India through the Raja Rammohun Roy National Agency for ISBN.
ISBN/ISSN registration exists to give every distinct publication a unique, internationally standardised identity โ enabling accurate cataloguing, inventory tracking, and sales reporting across bookstores, libraries, and distribution systems worldwide, so that the same title isn't confused with a different edition, format, or publisher's release.
An ISBN is assigned per specific edition and format of a book โ a paperback, hardcover, and e-book version of the same title are each treated as distinct publications and need their own number โ while an ISSN is assigned once to a periodical title and covers all its ongoing issues. Both identifiers are free to obtain in India through the national agency, though the process and turnaround differ slightly for first-time publishers versus those adding a new title to an existing publisher record.
Who Needs It
Types & Categories
ISBN
A unique identifier assigned per edition/format of a book โ print, hardcover, or e-book each require a separate number.
ISSN
A unique identifier assigned once to a periodical or serial title, covering its ongoing issues.
Key Benefits
Documents Required
- Publisher registration details
- Book/periodical title and edition information
- Sample cover page or title page
- Author and publisher declaration form
- Publication date and format details (print/e-book/hardcover)
Our Process
Publisher Registration
We register the publishing entity on the national ISBN/ISSN portal.
Title Details Compilation
Title, edition, format, and author details are compiled for submission.
Title Application
The specific title/edition is submitted for identifier allotment.
Number Allotment
The unique ISBN/ISSN is issued for use on the publication.
Validity & Renewal
Once allotted, an ISBN/ISSN remains valid indefinitely for that specific title/edition โ no renewal required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does each edition need a new ISBN?
Yes โ a new edition, format (hardcover vs. paperback vs. e-book), or significant revision of a title typically requires its own ISBN.
Is there a fee for ISBN/ISSN registration in India?
No โ allotment through the national agency is provided free of cost, unlike most other business registrations covered in this file.
Can a self-published author register directly?
Yes โ self-published authors can register as their own publisher on the national portal and apply for an ISBN for their title.
Does an ISSN need to be renewed for each new issue?
No โ an ISSN is assigned once to the periodical title itself and continues to apply to all subsequent issues under that title.
Which government body actually issues the ISBN in India?
The Raja Rammohun Roy National Agency for ISBN, functioning under India's Ministry of Education, is the sole authorised ISBN agency for the country โ applications are filed through its official online portal (isbn.gov.in), and no other private or state agency can validly issue an Indian ISBN.
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