ISSN Number Registration

Introduction to ISSN Number Registration Process

ISSN (International Standard Serial Number) is a unique code for serial publications. In India the ISSN is assigned by the National ISSN Centre at the National Science Library (CSIR-NIScPR). Publishers and editors apply online, submit basic title and imprint details and receive the ISSN once the record is validated

An ISSN helps libraries, databases and readers identify a serial exactly. It stops confusion between titles. For journals and magazines, ISSN enables indexing, cataloguing and easier distribution. Publishers who want credible reach should register early.

Who Should Apply for ISSN Number?

Apply for ISSN Number, if you publish a serial. This includes print journals, online journals, newsletters, and continuing series. Both institutions and individual editors can request an ISSN. Even conference series and annual reports that continue over issues qualify.

Official portal for ISSN Number Registration

Start on the National ISSN Centre web pages. The portal hosts the online application, guidelines, and FAQs. Create an account, fill the publisher profile, and then add a title record. The portal shows required attachments and status tracking.

ISSN Number Registration Process in 2025

• Create publisher account on the ISSN India portal.
• Choose print or online or both formats for your title.
• Fill title metadata: title, frequency, language, publisher name, country.
• Upload sample pages: title page, imprint page, cover image or homepage screenshot for online titles.
• Submit and wait for verification by the National Centre.
• On approval you receive the ISSN and a certificate; the record is added to the international register. 

Documents Required for ISSN Registration

Collect clear scans before you apply. Typical items the Centre asks for are:

• Title page and cover image (print).
• Imprint page with publisher details and frequency.
• For online: homepage screenshot showing title and publisher, plus ISSN placeholder if any.
• Publisher proof: organization registration or declaration if you are self-publisher
• Identity and contact of responsible editor or publisher.

Keep files tidy and labelled to avoid delays.

Eligibity Criteria for ISSN

The Centre checks that the title is a serial. They look for continuity, clear editorial control, and an imprint. One-off reports do not qualify. Titles must have a clear frequency or a plan to continue. Misleading or duplicate titles may be refused.

Fees and Timeline to Obtain ISSN Number

Timeline

The National Centre aims to process requests within about 30 working days, but actual time may vary. If documentation is complete and the title is straightforward, issuances can happen faster. Complex or multi-title requests may take longer. Plan at least a month before launch. 

Fees and Costing for Registration

India’s National ISSN Centre does not levy a fee for issuing ISSNs to publishers. The service is free of charge when you apply directly through the official portal. Avoid paid middlemen who offer to do what the portal does for free.

Print vs Online ISSN Rules

Print and online versions are separate ISSNs. If you publish both forms of the same title, request two ISSNs. For online titles provide stable URLs, and ensure the homepage shows the title and publisher. If you later add a print version file a new request for the print ISSN

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Wrong or missing imprint page: always include publisher name and address
• Unclear frequency: state planned schedule clearly.
• Duplicate title names: check the international portal before applying.
• Low quality scans: upload legible, high resolution images.

A short pre-check checklist saves time and keeps the record clean.

How to Manage Multiple Titles or Series?

Large publishers can request multiple ISSNs. The portal supports batch submissions, but the Centre may ask for evidence of publishing activity. Keep metadata consistent across titles and use a clear internal naming system to avoid mixups.

Post ISSN Registration Compliances

Once you get an ISSN, use it on the title page, the imprint, and the cover. Include it in citations and on the website. Keep metadata up to date: if frequency, publisher, or title changes, notify the National Centre. Some changes require a new ISSN — for example a major title change.

Indexing, Distribution and Sales

ISSN helps journals get indexed in databases and found by libraries. Bookstores and aggregators rely on the identifier for sales and subscription management. Including DOI and ISSN together improves article discoverability

Quick Checklist for ISSN Number Registration Process

• Create ISSN account and verify email.
• Prepare title page, imprint and cover image.
• For online: capture homepage screenshot with date.
• Upload publisher proof and ID of responsible person.
• Fill frequency and language clearly.
• Save confirmation emails and ISSN certificate when issued.

When to get help from a consultant

The process is free and straightforward for most titles. Hire help if you manage many titles, cross-border publications, or need metadata feeds to aggregators. A consultant can batch prepare files and ensure consistent metadata for indexing services.

Final note

Always use the official National ISSN Centre portal. Keep issued certificates and email records. Good metadata saves time and helps your title grow in visibility. Update details promptly to keep catalogues accurate.

ISSN registration is free but detail-oriented. Agile Regulatory helps publishers with account setup, metadata entry, sample preparation, and batch submissions. We tidy documents, avoid common mistakes, and speed approval. If you publish many titles or want error-free ISSN records, contact Agile Regulatory to streamline your ISSN workflow and keep your serials discoverable, legally sound and ready for libraries and indexes.