How to Get Import Authorisation in India

A fundamental feature of the Foreign Trade Policy of India is free trade. Hence, many licensing, quantitative restrictions and regulatory discretionary controls on import or export of goods or services from India have been relaxed. However, some items might still require import authorisation. In this article, we look at the procedure for obtaining import authorisation in India.

Free Import

All goods may be imported freely into India without any restriction except to the extent such imports are regulated by the provision of the Foreign Trade Policy or any other law for the time being in force. The item wise import and export policy is published in the ITC (HS) Classifications of Export and Import Items by the

Director General of Foreign Trade.

Import Restricted through Authorisation

Import of goods and service which are restricted under ITC(HS) classification of Export and Import items, will be allowed only in accordance with an authorisation or a public notice issued on behalf of the concerned regional authority.

Import Authorisation Terms

All import authorisations are provided under terms and conditions as specified by the regional authority, which may include:

Description, quantity and value of goods to be imported.
Actual user condition.
Export obligation, if any.
Minimum value addition to be achieved, if any.
Minimum export or import price.
Bank guarantee or legal undertaking or bond with customs authority.
Validity period.

Applying for Import Authorisation

An application for grant of import authorisation for import of items mentioned as restricted in ITC (HS) can be made to the Regional Authority.

Denied Entity List (DEL)

If an import authorisation holder violates any condition of authorisation or fails to fulfil export obligation, or fails to deposit the requisite amount within the period specified, then the person or entity can be placed under the Denied Entity List by the concerned regional authority. On being placed in the DEL, the entity would be refused grant or renewal of license, certificate, scrip or any instrument bestowing financial or fiscal benefits to the entity.

Obtain IE Code to Import or Export goods from India.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Import Authorisation Procedures in India: Essential Guidelines.

An import authorisation is required in India for goods and services that are classified as restricted under the ITC (HS) Classifications of Export and Import Items published by the Director General of Foreign Trade. All other goods can be imported freely without any restrictions.

You can apply for an import authorisation for restricted items by submitting an application to the concerned Regional Authority. The application process and requirements may vary depending on the specific item and the regional authority's guidelines.

Import authorisations usually specify the description, quantity, and value of goods to be imported, along with terms and conditions such as actual user condition, export obligation (if any), minimum value addition, minimum export or import price, and validity period. Bank guarantees, legal undertakings, or bonds with customs authorities may also be required.

The Denied Entity List (DEL) is a list maintained by the concerned regional authority. If an import authorisation holder violates any condition of the authorisation or fails to fulfil export obligations or deposit requisite amounts, they can be placed on the DEL. Being on the DEL can result in the refusal of future licenses, certificates, scrips, or any instrument bestowing financial or fiscal benefits.

The validity period of an import authorisation is usually specified by the concerned regional authority while granting the authorisation. The validity period may vary depending on the specific item and the terms and conditions of the authorisation.

Import authorisations are typically non-transferable and cannot be sold or traded. They are issued to specific entities or individuals for importing restricted goods or services and are subject to the terms and conditions specified by the regional authority.

The requirement for an import authorisation depends on the classification of the item under the ITC (HS) Classifications of Export and Import Items, regardless of the quantity or intended use. However, some regional authorities may provide exemptions or simplified procedures for personal use or small quantities of certain items.

Importing restricted goods without a valid import authorisation is considered a violation of the Foreign Trade Policy and may result in penalties, confiscation of goods, or other legal actions as per the applicable laws and regulations.

In some cases, import authorisations may be amended or modified by the concerned regional authority, subject to their guidelines and procedures. Amendments or modifications may be required if there are changes in the quantity, value, or other terms and conditions of the authorisation.

The fundamental feature of the Foreign Trade Policy of India is to promote free trade by relaxing licensing, quantitative restrictions, and regulatory discretionary controls on the import or export of goods and services, except for certain restricted items that require import authorisation or regulation under applicable laws.