An Overview

The Restricted/Negative list typically consists of items that can't be freely imported. The import of Restricted/Negative items requires an authorisation/license. The Restricted items import can only be done by the actual user. Items in the Restricted items list are restricted either because of security, health, or environmental concerns or because they are produced by small companies, home-based or village-based, requiring little skill but employing large numbers of local people.

According to Trade Notice No. 47/2020-21 : Dated 23rd March 2021: Issuance of Import Authorization for ‘Restricted’ items from DGFT HQs w.e.f. 22.03.2021, the DGFT has introduced a new online module for import authorisation for restricted items. So the import authorisation for restricted items needs to be submitted online to DGFT HQ.

List of Restricted Items :

Where importer can find the Restrictive items list for Import License?

• Go to DGFT website https://www.dgft.gov.in/
• Go to Regulatory Updates ->Import, Export and SCOMET Policy
• Click on Restricted Items Details: Here importer can find the list of items that are Restricted

What is Restricted Import Authorisation?

The Restricted Import Items are those items that are not freely importable; require the import license/Authorization/permission from DGFT. The restricted items only can be imported after having the Restricted Import License.

On 23rd March 2021, the Government has introduced the online module to issue the restricted import license under Import Management System. No Manual application would be accepted. The License for restricted items is issued by the DGFT Delhi.

Import Management System

The Application fee and validity of Restricted Import License

The Application fee of Rs. 1 per thousand subjects to a minimum of Rs. 500/- and maximum of Rs.1 Lakh on CIF value of import license will need to be paid through electronic mode in the online system for each license.

Documents required for application to get Restricted Import License

• Import-Export License
• MSME Certificate
• Board resolution copy
• Adhar card and Pan card of Authorized Signatory
• Authorization from concern dept.

List of Concerned Departments providing permission to import restricted items

Documents required for application to get Restricted Import License The importer wish to get restricted import license has to take the permission from the concerned department. The list has been shared below of application category under restricted license and the mandatory information/certificate required for the restricted import license issuance.

Concerned Departments to grant the permission for restricted import license

Application Procedure for Restricted Imports authorization

The Application required to be done online on DGFT Portal after the prior registration. Restricted Import Procedures

• Visit the DGFT Portal - https://www.dgft.gov.in/CP/.
• Do login with valid credentials.
• Select Import Management System from services.
• Click on Restricted Imports.
• Click on Apply for Revalidation of Restricted Imports authorization.
• Fill all the details and upload the necessary documents.
• After filling all the details, submit the application.
• After a successful application, the Restricted Import License would be issued by DGFT Delhi.

Important Points regarding the online application

• Multiple restricted products can be imported under a single Restricted Imports authorization.

Bulk Upload for uploading of export items –

• The new feature for bulk uploading has been introduced in the new system, the format would be given on portal, all the import details has to be filled in excel that required to be uploaded in import details section.

Amendment of Restricted Imports License

The Restricted Import License holders are permitted to amend the license, new items can be added, and the quantity and CIF value can be decreased or increased, UOM (Unit of Measure) can be changed. Amendment of an issued License is only allowed until its import validity period. The basic application fee is Rs 200 required to be paid. If the CIF value would be increased the application fee will also increase.

Revalidation of Restricted Import License

Revalidation is permitted for Restricted Import Authorization application fee of Rs 500 required to be paid online for revalidation.

• Visit the DGFT Portal - https://www.dgft.gov.in/CP/.
• Do login with valid credentials.
• Select Import Management System from services.
• Click on Restricted Imports.
• Click on Apply for Revalidation of Restricted Imports authorization.
• Fill all the details and upload the necessary documents.
• After filling all the details, submit the application.
• After a successful application, the Restricted Import License would be issued by DGFT Delhi.

What is the EFC and what is the role of EFC in Restricted Import Authorisation?

The EFC stands for EXIM Facilitation Committee (EFC). This committee chaired by Additional DGFT in charge of imports and comprises representatives of various Ministries and Departments. The applications for issuance of import authorization for ‘Restricted’ items are processed in Import Cell and considered by an EXIM Facilitation Committee (EFC).

Restricted/Negative items import Authorisation – Flowchart

• When the exporter login to the DGFT web portal and applies for Restricted items Imports License by making payment.
• The application is then submitted to the concerned Technical Ministry/ Department seeking their NOC/comments/views.
• If the application is deficient, the deficiency letter will be sent to the applicant firm through email.
• In response to the query, the applicant importer is required to provide necessary documents/clarifications.
• The application is then forwarded to the technical ministry/department for their comments/NOC.
• All pending applications are placed before EXIM Facilitation Committee (EFC) in DGFT for consideration on a case-by-case basis upon receipt of NOC/comments.
• A letter of authorization is prepared by the Import Cell, DGFT(HQ) after an application is approved by the EFC.
• A copy of the authorisation issued to Regional Authorities (RAs) of the DGFT.
• Once permission has been granted by DGFT (Hqrs), the firm must then approach the concerned Regional Authority of DGFT with a copy of the permission letter and the application submitted to DGFT (HQ).
• DGFT's Regional Authority will issue an import license for Restricted items to the applicants.

How we can assist you to get Restricted Import License?

• We are a team of DGFT experts who can analyze the feasibility of the scheme for the imports.
• We assist our clients in documentation in avoiding the delay in the process.
• After receiving the required documents, we prepare the application and make the online application.
• We coordinate with DGFT and other concerned departments until the issuance of the license.
• We also assist our clients in Amendment /Revalidation of the license.