DGFT Licensing Timelines: How Long Do DGFT Licences Take in India?
For any importer or exporter in India, understanding DGFT licensing timelines is crucial for smooth trade operations. Delays in licences can result in shipment holds, missed contracts, demurrage costs, and compliance risks.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) regulates import-export authorisations under India’s Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), and each licence has a defined—but variable—processing timeline.
This blog explains DGFT licensing timelines, licence-wise expected duration, factors affecting approvals, and how businesses can ensure faster clearance.
What Is DGFT Licensing?
DGFT licensing refers to the issuance of Import-Export related authorisations by DGFT under the Foreign Trade Policy. These licences allow businesses to:
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Import restricted goods
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Export regulated items
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Avail export promotion schemes
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Comply with RBI, Customs, and FTP requirements
Knowing DGFT licensing timelines helps exporters plan shipments and cash flows effectively.
DGFT Licensing Timelines – Licence-Wise Breakdown
1. IEC (Import Export Code) Registration Timeline
IEC is the most basic DGFT licence required to start import or export in India.
DGFT Licensing Timeline for IEC:
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Same day to 24 hours – With Aadhaar e-sign and complete documents
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1–2 working days – Normal DGFT processing
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3–5 working days – If clarification or verification is required
IEC is issued online and is valid for a lifetime, subject to annual updation.
2. IEC Modification / Amendment Timeline
IEC modification is required for changes in:
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Address
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Bank details
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Director/Partner details
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Email or mobile number
DGFT Licensing Timeline for IEC Modification:
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3–5 working days for most cases
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Can extend if document mismatch or incorrect details are submitted
3. Advance Authorisation Licence Timeline
Advance Authorisation allows duty-free import of inputs used in export production.
DGFT Licensing Timelines:
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3–7 working days – Simple, error-free applications
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10–20 working days – If clarification or technical review is required
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Up to 30 days – Complex cases or policy-sensitive items
Timelines depend heavily on HS code accuracy and export obligation details.
4. EPCG Licence Timeline
The Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme allows duty-free import of capital goods against export obligation.
DGFT Licensing Timelines for EPCG:
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7–15 working days – Standard EPCG applications
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15–30+ days – Large value imports or sensitive sectors
Any discrepancy in capital goods description can delay approval.
5. DFIA Licence Timeline
Duty Free Import Authorisation (DFIA) is issued post-export and involves stricter verification.
DGFT Licensing Timelines for DFIA:
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15–30 working days
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May extend further if export verification or norm scrutiny is required
6. Restricted Item Import Licence Timeline
Certain items are classified as restricted under ITC (HS) and require a specific import licence.
DGFT Licensing Timelines:
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15–30 days in normal cases
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30–60 days or more if inter-ministerial approval or technical committee review is involved
These licences have the longest DGFT licensing timelines.
7. Export Licence for Restricted Goods
Some exports also require DGFT approval due to national interest, security, or quota restrictions.
DGFT Licensing Timelines:
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10–25 working days
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Depends on product category and destination country
8. RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate)
Though not a DGFT licence, RCMC is mandatory to claim export incentives.
RCMC Timeline:
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5–10 working days with Export Promotion Councils
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Valid for 5 years
Factors Affecting DGFT Licensing Timelines
Several factors influence how quickly DGFT processes licences:
1. Accuracy of Application
Incorrect HS codes, wrong scheme selection, or mismatched details cause DGFT queries.
2. Completeness of Documents
Missing annexures, unsigned declarations, or unclear uploads delay approvals.
3. Nature of Goods
Restricted, sensitive, or defence-related items face longer scrutiny.
4. Portal & Verification Load
High application volume or backend verification can extend DGFT licensing timelines.
5. Policy Changes
New FTP amendments or notifications may temporarily slow approvals.
Common Reasons for DGFT Licence Delays
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Wrong product classification
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Mismatch between invoice and application
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Incorrect CIF/FOB values
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Invalid digital signature
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Pending IEC updation
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Poor response to DGFT queries
Most DGFT licensing delays are avoidable with proper preparation.
How to Ensure Faster DGFT Licence Approval
To reduce DGFT licensing timelines:
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Keep IEC updated annually
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Use correct HS codes and policy references
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Upload clear, legible documents
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Respond to DGFT queries immediately
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Maintain consistency across IEC, GST, and bank records
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Seek professional EXIM compliance support for complex licences
Conclusion
Understanding DGFT licensing timelines is essential for exporters and importers to avoid operational delays and compliance risks. While some licences are approved within days, others may take weeks depending on complexity and scrutiny.
Proper documentation, correct classification, and proactive follow-up can significantly reduce DGFT licensing timelines and ensure smooth international trade operations.
Know More About DGFT Licensing – EPCG & Advance Authorization
