AA / EPCG / DFIA License Registration
List of Services
AFLEO Consultants DGFT Regional office
- IEC and its modification/Yearly Update/IEC Surrender.
- Revoke IEC from DEL, Suspension, Cancellation etc / Merger/Demerger of IEC’s.
- DGFT Identity card.
- Advance License - Issuance and Redemptions
- Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) License – Issuance and Redemptions
- Duty-Free Import Authorization (DFIA)
- Remission of Duties or Taxes on Export Product (RoDTEP)
- Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS)
- Services Exports from India Scheme (SEIS)
- Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL)
- Transport and Marketing Assistance (TMA)
- Certificates of Origin (COO) – SAPTA, APTA, ISLFTA, GSTP, India–Dubai CEPA, etc.
- Import Monitoring System (IMS) – Steel IMS, Coal IMS, Copper/Aluminium IMS, Chip IMS
- Deemed Export Benefits – Apply for Refund of TED/DBK/Brand rate Fixation.
- Star Export House Certificate.
- Free Sale & Commerce Certificate, End User Certificate.
- Enforcement cum Adjudication Proceedings at RA Mumbai.
- E-RCMC Certificate from DGFT – APEDA, FIEO, EEPC, PHARMEXCIL, CHEMEXCIL ETC.
- Gems & Jewelry Schemes.
- Application for Interest Equalization Scheme.
- REX Registration.
- FREE SALE AND COMMERCE CERTIFICATE.
- Abeyance Cases for IEC’s in DEL.
- END USER CERTIFICATE.
DGFT HQ, New Delhi
- Norms Fixation - Handling 25+ Norms Fixation cases every month across various Product groups. (Engineering, Pharmaceutical, Chemical, Textiles & Leather, Plastic & Rubber, Food, Sports & Misc. products)
- Policy Relaxation Committee (PRC Matters) - Proudly representing 20+ cases every month.
- EPCG Committee Approvals - Handling 10+ complex cases every month
- Permission for Restricted/Negative list of Import Items & Export Items - Experience in Handling 100+ cases till date.
- Registration Certificates for Export & Import Items.
- SCOMET Licenses.
- TRQ (Tariff Rate Quotas)
- Appeal Matters under FTP.
Custom Related Services
- AA/EPCG/DFIA License Registration.
- Bond & Bank Guarantee (BG) Cancellation of EPCG/Advance License.
- ICEGATE Registration.
- Refund under Section 74.
- Pending Duty Drawback from Customs.
- Factory stuffing– Self-sealing permission. [FSP]
- Pending IGST Refund from Customs.
- Removal of IEC from the Alert list of Customs.
- GST Services – Refund of ITC from GST.
- Authorized Economic Operator (AEO T1, T2 & T3) certification.
- Reply & Follow-up of Customs Notices if any.
- GST Services – Refund of GST for Service Exporters.
- AD Code/IFSC Registration.
- SIIB Matters (Special Investigation and Intelligence Branch)
- SVB Matters.
- Registration Procedures for First-time Importers/ Exporters
- DPD/DPE Registration.
Other Certification:
- All Types of Digital Signature Certificates.
- Health Certificate for Export Products
- EPR Certification for Producers, Importers and Brand owners.
- Phytosanitory Certificate.
- BIS Certification.
- Banking & RBI related liaison for Exporters & Importers.
AFLEO logistics
- Sea Cargo Consolidation – Import & Export
- Sea Freight Forwarding - Import & Export
- Air freight - Import & Export
- Land freight
- Warehousing
- Customs clearance
- Insurance
AFLEO Global
- Buying of scrips - MEIS / SEIS / RoDTEP / RoSCTL / DFIA
- Selling of scrips - MEIS / SEIS / RoDTEP / RoSCTL / DFIA
Find our brochure for more details:
Table of Contents
AA / EPCG / DFIA License Registration
- What is an Import Export Code (IEC)?
- Circumstances When an IEC is Necessary
- Instances Where IEC is Not Required
- Steps Involved in IEC Registration
- Documents Needed for IEC Registration
- Advantages of IEC Registration
- Cost and Validity of IEC
- Restricted Goods List (as per IEC regulations)
- How to Apply for an Import-Export License Online
- FAQ’s
- Associated Services Provided by Afleo
- Conclusion
Exporters in India can greatly reduce their customs duties and increase their global competitiveness through the Directorate General of Foreign Trade’s (DGFT) flagship programs – Advance Authorization (AA), Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG), and Duty-Free Import Authorization (DFIA).
With these schemes, exporters can bring in raw materials, inputs or capital goods without having to pay customs duties. This can also improve the efficiency of their operations and free up working capital.
At Afleo Group, we will help you through the entire process – from submitting your application to DGFT to registering your license with Customs, so that your export incentive licenses are properly registered in a timely manner.
What Are DGFT Export Licenses?
The DGFT is responsible for facilitating the growth of India’s exports and has implemented several schemes to promote exports.
The export licenses, such as AA, EPCG, and DFIA, are digital authorizations issued via the DGFT portal, which enables duty-free clearance of imports; however, these must be registered with Customs.
Why is License Registration Important?
Before you can utilize the duty-free benefit of any export license, you must first register your license with Customs.
If you do not register your license:
- Imports cannot be cleared under the duty-free benefit of your license.
- The license cannot be utilized for tracking its usage or redemption.
- Delays, demurrage, or penalty compliance may occur.
In summary, registering your license with Customs will bridge the gap between DGFT and Customs and enable you to utilize the benefits of the permit.
What is an Advance Authorization License?
An Advance Authorization (AA) license allows for the duty-free import of inputs/ raw materials necessary to manufacture products intended for export. The AA license is governed by Chapter 4 of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP).
The AA license was designed to assist exporters with maintaining competitiveness by eliminating the upfront duty liability for imports needed for export production.
Key Benefits
- Full exemptions from Basic Customs Duty, IGST and Compensation Cess.
- Improves working capital liquidity and minimizes financing requirements.
- Reduces production costs and enhances global price competitiveness.
- Streamlines supply chain for consistent export performance.
Eligibility & Conditions
- Exporters/manufacturers who produce products for export are eligible to obtain an AA license.
- Inputs imported under an AA license must be used in the production of export products as per the Standard Input-Output Norms (SION).
- The export obligation must normally be met within eighteen (18) months from the issuance of the AA license.
- The AA license is not transferable until the export obligation is met.
Steps to Obtain an AA License
- Online Application: File the application online with the DGFT portal using your IEC and DSC.
- Correctly Identify HS Codes: Ensure correct SION standards for input/output mapping.
- Upload Required Documents: IEC, GST Certificate, Chartered Engineer Certificate, and Export Order.
- Issuance of Digital License: DGFT electronically issues the authorization.
- Customs Registration: Register the license on ICEGATE to activate it for import clearance.
Afleo ensures all aspects of the process are performed with precision, minimizing rejection due to errors and expediting the process.
What is an EPCG License?
The Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) license program permits the duty-free importation of capital goods, machinery or equipment for exporters who meet an export obligation.
Under the terms of the policy, exporters must realize an export turnover amounting to six times the duty saved over a period of six years.
Benefits of EPCG License Registration
- Significant cost savings on capital goods and machinery.
- Enable the modernization of manufacturing facilities.
- Enhance the quality and productivity of products manufactured.
- Increase India’s export competitiveness in global markets.
Steps to Obtain an EPCG License
- Apply Through DGFT Portal: Complete the online EPCG application form.
- Provide Relevant Information: Provide a Project Report, Machinery Specifications, and an Export Obligation Plan.
- EPCG License Issued: DGFT issues the EPCG license digitally.
- Register with Customs: Upload the file on ICEGATE for Customs activation to claim duty exemption.
Post-License Registration Compliance
- Keep records of the export obligation fulfillment.
- File annual returns with the DGFT portal.
- Apply for redemption when the export obligation is fulfilled.
Afleo will assist with both the registration and post-registration compliance to keep you audit-ready.
What is DFIA?
The Duty-Free Import Authorization (DFIA) program permits exporters to import inputs duty-free after exporting products. The DFIA is regulated by Chapter 4 of the FTP, just like the AA, but works on a post-export basis.
One of the most attractive features of the DFIA is that it is transferable once export proceeds are realized, thereby providing greater flexibility for exporters.
Benefits of DFIA Registration
- Permits post-export duty-free imports of inputs used in the production of exported products.
- Provides flexibility and transferability, enabling liquidity options.
- Ideal for exporters with regular input needs.
Steps to Obtain a DFIA License
- Apply for DFIA after Export on the DGFT Portal.
- Submit Shipping Bills, BRCs, and Export Documents.
- DGFT Issues DFIA Authorization.
- Register License on ICEGATE for Customs Clearance and Duty Benefit.
Afleo coordinates the entire process of both DGFT filing and Customs registration, ensuring compliance throughout the process.
Common Customs Registration Steps for AA / EPCG / DFIA
Regardless of whether you have an AA, EPCG, or DFIA license, Customs registration follows the same general procedure:
- Log in to the ICEGATE portal using your login credentials.
- Upload DGFT-issued license XML or digital file.
- Verify and link the license to your IEC.
- Customs verifies and activates the license for import clearance.
Accurate registration ensures that your import shipments proceed without delay due to customs duty payment issues.
If you havent registerd on ICEGATE, Check out our detailed blog on What is ICEGATE? Registration Process, Services Offered
Benefits of Registering DGFT Licenses with Customs
- Allows duty-free imports without any financial blockages.
- Eliminates shipment delays at Indian Ports.
- Guarantees proper tracking of export obligations.
- Simplifies the redemption or closure process.
- Creates a complete digital trail for future DGFT and Customs audits.
Afleo’s expertise ensures that every license is registered correctly the first time, thus reducing unnecessary filing efforts and customs holds.
How Afleo Can Help You Register AA, EPCG, and DFIA Licenses
At Afleo Group, our specialization includes DGFT licensing and Customs registration services. Our team of experienced DGFT and Customs professionals will guide you through the registration process from start to finish.
Services We Offer:
- Preparing and submitting your application through the DGFT portal.
- Providing guidance on SION norms, input mapping, and export obligations.
- Registering your license with Customs through ICEGATE.
- Assisting with license amendment, revalidation, and redemption.
- Transparency with real-time status updates and compliance checks.
Get Your AA, EPCG, or DFIA License Registered with Afleo Today!
Our mission is to make the complicated export incentive registration process efficient, mistake-free and timely for every exporter.
Required Documents for License Registration
To facilitate a seamless registration process for both DGFT and Customs, exporters should have the following prepared:
- IEC Certificate
- GST Registration Certificate
- Copy of AA/EPCG/DFIA issued from DGFT
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
Afleo will review each document prior to submitting it to minimize technical errors.
FAQ’s
1. What’s the difference between AA, EPCG, and DFIA schemes?
- AA: Import of inputs prior to exports; duty-free.
- EPCG: Import of capital goods (equipment); duty-free.
- DFIA: Import of inputs post-export; duty-free.
2. How long does it take to register a DGFT license with Customs?
Approximately 2-5 business days, depending upon the processing speed of DGFT and Customs.
3. Can a merchant exporter apply for license registration?
4. Is DGFT registration mandatory before importing goods?
5. Can Afleo assist with amendments and redemption later?
Yes, Afleo supports you through all stages, from the registration of your AA, EPCG, or DFIA license to any subsequent amendments, renewal and finally to redemption.
Contact Afleo – Your DGFT License Experts
Obtaining an AA, EPCG, or DFIA license is very important to take advantage of customs duty exemptions/reliefs, reduce costs and ensure easy compliance.
Afleo Group streamlines this process for you with our comprehensive DGFT and Customs Support, ensuring that your license registrations are completed rapidly, accurately and without complications.
Get Your DGFT License Registered with Afleo Today!