How to Apply for NABL Accreditation Online — Step-by-Step 2025

The NABL accreditation application process is now fully online through the NABL portal. This guide walks you through every step of the online application process for medical laboratories.

Applying for NABL accreditation can seem daunting, but breaking it down into clear steps makes the process manageable. Here is a comprehensive walkthrough of the NABL online application process for medical laboratories in 2025.

Before You Apply — Prerequisites

Before submitting your NABL application, ensure the following are in place:

• Quality Manual compliant with ISO 15189:2022 (or current applicable version)
• All major SOPs written, approved, and implemented for at least 3–6 months
• IQC records covering at least 3–6 months of operation
• EQA enrolment and at least one cycle of results available
• Staff competency records for all testing personnel
• Equipment calibration certificates (NABL-accredited calibration)
• Internal audit completed within the last 6 months
• Management review meeting held and documented

Step 1: Register on the NABL Portal

Visit the official NABL website (nabl-india.org) and register your laboratory. You will need:

• Lab name, address, and contact details
• Lab Director details and qualifications
• Type of accreditation sought (medical laboratory / ISO 15189)
• Scope of accreditation (disciplines and specific tests)

Step 2: Define Your Scope

The scope of accreditation defines exactly which tests your lab is seeking accreditation for. Be specific. Each test or test group must be listed with the method used. NABL only accredits the specific tests you apply for — not your entire menu by default.

Step 3: Upload Documents

Upload the following through the NABL portal:

• Quality Manual (current version)
• List of documents (master list)
• Equipment list with calibration status
• Staff list with qualifications
• Layout/floor plan of the laboratory

Step 4: Pay Application Fee

NABL charges a non-refundable application fee based on the scope and discipline. Payment is made online through the portal.

Step 5: Await NABL’s Response

NABL reviews your application and documents. They may request additional information or clarification. Once satisfied, they schedule an assessment.

Step 6: Assessment

NABL assigns 1–3 assessors (technical experts in your discipline) who visit your lab. The assessment typically takes 1–3 days depending on the scope.

Step 7: Close Non-Conformances

After the assessment, NABL provides an assessment report with any non-conformances (major or minor). You must submit evidence of closure within the stipulated timeframe.

Step 8: Accreditation Certificate

Once NABL is satisfied with your NC closures, they issue the NABL accreditation certificate. This is valid for 2 years, with annual surveillance assessments.

Need Help with Your NABL Application?

Ease Care Consultancy handles the entire NABL application process on behalf of our clients — from portal registration and scope definition to document upload, fee payment, and NC closure. Contact us today to get started.