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Advance Authorisation(AA)

Advance Authorisation scheme enables duty free import of inputs for export production, including replenishment of inputs or duty remission Advance Authorisation covers manufacturer exporters or merchant exporters tied to supporting manufacturer(s).

Authority

Central

Region

Central Government

Status

Verified 2026

Updated

March 2026

What you get

- Input for exports exempted from payment of Basic Customs Duty, Additional Customs Duty, Education Cess, Anti-dumping Duty, Safeguard Duty and Transition Product Specific Safeguard Duty, wherever applicable. | - Exempted from IGST and Compensation cess.

Who can apply

Advance Authorisation can be issued either to a manufacturer exporter or merchant exporter tied to supporting manufacturer,.; Advance Authorisation for pharmaceutical products manufactured through Non-Infringing (NI) process (as indicated in paragraph 4.18 of Handbook of Procedures) shall be issued to manufacturer exporter only.; Physical export (including export to SEZ); Intermediate supply; and/or; Supply of goods to the categories mentioned in paragraph 7.02 (b), (c), (d), (e), (f) and (g) of this FTP.; Supply of ‘stores’ on board of foreign going vessel / aircraft, subject to condition that there is specific Standard Input Output Norms in respect of item supplied; Minimum value addition of 15%; Period for fulfilment of export obligation - 18 months from the date of issue of Authorisation or as notified by DGFT.

Required Paperwork

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Income Certificate
  • Residence Proof (Domicile)

Common Questions

Who can apply for the Advance Authorisation Scheme?

Manufacturer exporters or merchant exporters tied to supporting manufacturers are eligible to apply under this scheme.

Can I apply for Advance Authorisation if I am a pharmaceutical exporter?

Yes, but Advance Authorisation for pharmaceutical products made through Non-Infringing (NI) process is issued only to manufacturer exporters.

What benefits does this scheme offer for imported inputs?

It allows duty-free import of inputs physically incorporated in the export product, including fuel, oil, and catalysts consumed during production.

Are there any exemptions from taxes and duties under this scheme?

Yes, inputs are exempted from Basic Customs Duty, Additional Customs Duty, Education Cess, Anti-dumping Duty, Safeguard Duty, IGST, and Compensation Cess.

Is there any provision for importing spices under this scheme?

Yes, duty-free import of spices under Chapter 9 is allowed only for crushing, grinding, sterilization, or oil/oleoresin manufacturing, not for cleaning or repacking.

What is the time limit to complete the export obligation?

Please follow the given path: | The export obligation must be fulfilled within 18 months from the date of issue of the Authorisation or as notified by DGFT.

What are SION norms?

SION (Standard Input Output Norms) are sector-wise norms notified by DGFT that define input-output ratios for specific export products.

Is Advance Authorisation applicable for SEZ or intermediate supplies?

Yes, it can be issued for physical exports, including SEZ supplies, intermediate supplies, and other specified categories under FTP para 7.02.

How do I start the application process for Advance Authorisation?

You must visit www.dgft.gov.in and apply under Services > Advance Authorisation / DFIA > Apply for Advance Authorisation (ANF 4A).

What is RCMC and why is it necessary?

Please follow the given path: | RCMC (Registration cum Membership Certificate) from the relevant Export Promotion Council is required to claim export benefits and apply for restricted licenses.