Introduction
As a major trading economy, India controls imports of a variety of goods under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP). The majority of goods are freely importable, while others come under the definition of "Restricted," meaning that they require advance government permission. Such permission comes in the form of an Restricted import license in India.
What is a Restricted Import License?
An import permit is a license issued by the government to facilitate importers to import restricted commodities into India legally. The permit ensures that the importation of certain goods does not compromise national security, public safety, the environment, or domestic industry.
For importers, knowledge and holding the correct import permit is essential to avoid shipment delay, fines, or confiscation at ports.
Types of Import Categories in India
According to India's Foreign Trade Policy, the imported articles are categorized as:
1. Free: Import license not required.
2. Restricted: Restricted import license from DGFT is necessary.
3. Prohibited: Cannot be imported.
In case your product falls in the restricted category, then it will be required to get a restricted import license in India.
What is a Restricted Import License in India?
A restricted import license is issued in India for goods which cannot be imported freely. These may include:
- Used machinery
- Drones
- Firearms and ammunition
- Second-hand electronics
- Hazardous chemicals
- Regulatory controlled medical devices
- Industrial waste recycling and e-waste
- Tyres
Illegal importation of these goods without an import licence India can lead to confiscation or legal action by Indian customs authorities.
Who Needs an Import Licence in India?
You need an import licence if:
- You are importing restricted goods to India
- You are importing second-hand or reconditioned equipment
- Your product falls under controlled imports such as hazardous materials or eco-friendly items
- The product requires clearance from different ministries such as MoEF, MoH&FW, or Defence Ministry
If your product falls under the restricted list of the ITC (HS) classification, you will be required to get an import license before shipping.
How we can Check if a Product is Restricted?
To check if the product requires an import license, look at the following:
- Product's ITC (HS) Code
- Check the DGFT's Import Policy for such an HS Code
- If it is listed as "Restricted," an import licence is required
This is an important step prior to importing from foreign suppliers.
Import License Application Process in India
The import licence India process is segmented into various steps:
Step 1: Register on the DGFT Portal
Company need to Register the business on the DGFT portal by IEC (Import Export Code), PAN, and mobile number.
Step 2: Check Product Policy
Check the ITC HS Code of your product and confirm that it falls under the Restricted category.
Step 3: Online draft Application
Prepare the application in ANF-2M Form along with supporting documents.
Step 4: Online Application Submission
Log in to the DGFT portal and upload supporting documents and submit the application for an import license.
Step 5: Department Review
Your application is verified by DGFT and forwarded to respective ministries (if required) for clearance.
Step 6: License Issuance
You are issued a digitally signed import license, which is often valid for 18 months.
Documents Required to Obtain Import License in India
For filing an import license, you need to submit:
- IEC (Import Export Code) Certificate
- Company PAN Card
- GST Registration Certificate
- Covering Letter with reason why the import is being carried out
- Product catalogue
- Technical literature (if applicable)
- Certificate of Chartered Engineer (in the case of second-hand goods)
- Copy of Pollution NOC (in the case of e-waste or hazardous items)
- The specific clearance from the respective ministry, if required
All the import license applications are technically and policy-wise scrutinized by the authorities.
Duration to Obtain an Import License
The time taken to process an import licence in India can range between 0 and 6 months based on the type of product and if any approvals from the concerned ministry are needed. When inter-ministerial clearance is involved, the process will be longer.
Validity of Restricted Import License in India
The validity of the Restricted Imports License for imports is 18 months from the date of issuance of the License.
Typical Mistakes of Importers
1. Forgetting import policy check before purchase
2. Wrong HS Code classification
3. Submission of incomplete documents
4. Late submission causing delay in shipping
5. Technical reasons for the product not provided
How SKMC Global Can Assist
Our organization offers full assistance in acquiring your restricted import license in India for restricted items. How we help:
- Product Classification
We categorize your product under the appropriate ITC HS Code and identify the import policy.
- License Eligibility Check
We ensure whether an import license is required or not as per DGFT policies.
- Complete Documentation
Our experts help you draft a well-typed application with appropriate documents, reducing the risk of rejection.
- Filing on DGFT Portal
We handle the entire online process of your import licence India, including correspondence with ministries when required.
- Fast-Track Approvals
Leaning on extensive knowledge of departmental mechanisms, we ensure quick issue of license and avoid unnecessary delays.
Conclusion
Import license for restricted goods in India is a governed and mandatory process. For Importing the goods Importers need to analyze the category of their product, provide valid documents, and communicate with DGFT and other concerned ministries. Ignoring this will result in delayed shipments, fines, or confiscation.
With over a decade of experience in the industry, SKMC Global is your one-stop facilitator for obtaining Restricted import licence India for any type of restricted goods. We possess a trained team that ensures compliance, quick turnaround time, and end-to-end support at every step of the process.
We will guide you through the complex procedure of getting your import license economically and professionally.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Primarily, there is one important type of import license for restricted goods, and it is the restricted import license in India. The form and conditions of the permit can vary depending on the commodity and intention.
No, only the goods that are classified under "Restricted" in the ITC (HS) Code require an import license. Imports under "Free" can be made without a license.
The validity of the Restricted Imports License for imports is 18 months from the date of issuance of the License. Importers are required to ensure completion of shipments within the validity period of the license.
Yes. You can submit amendment of license through the DGFT portal in the event of any change in product specifications, quantity, import port, or other such vital details. The amendment application must be supported by valid documents and reason.
In case of amending an already issued import license, you typically need:
-Original license copy
-Covering letter stating the reason for amendment
-Documents in favor (e.g., modified purchase order, technical reason, etc.)
-Any ministry clearance (if needed)
No, Import Export Code Certificate (IEC) is mandatory to submit any import licence India. Without IEC, DGFT won't accept your application.
Importation of prohibited goods in contravention of the requirement of an import license is prohibited under the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act.