DGFT Restricted Imports Authorisation in India: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
Importing restricted items into India is governed by strict regulations issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). Any importer dealing with restricted goods must obtain prior DGFT Authorisation, failing which Customs clearance will not be permitted.
This detailed guide explains the DGFT Restricted Imports Authorisation process, eligibility, fees, validity, amendments, revalidation, and common mistakes — helping importers avoid delays and rejections.
Importing restricted items into India is governed by strict regulations issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). Any importer dealing with restricted goods must obtain prior DGFT Authorisation, failing which Customs clearance will not be permitted.
This detailed guide explains the DGFT Restricted Imports Authorisation process, eligibility, fees, validity, amendments, revalidation, and common mistakes — helping importers avoid delays and rejections.
What Are Restricted Imports?
Restricted items are goods whose import is allowed only with a valid DGFT Authorisation / License or under specific procedures notified in the Foreign Trade Policy.
The official list of restricted items is published under:
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Import Policy
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Export Policy
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SCOMET Policy
(Available on the DGFT portal under Regulatory Updates)
Eligibility Criteria for Restricted Imports Authorisation
To apply for DGFT Restricted Imports Authorisation, the following conditions must be met:
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Valid Import Export Code (IEC)
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IEC linked with DGFT user profile
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Active Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
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Item must fall under Restricted category as per ITC(HS)
Important Notes:
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IEC under DEL status: Application allowed but processed only after DEL removal
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IEC cancelled or suspended: Application not permitted
How to Apply for DGFT Restricted Imports Authorisation Online
Application Path:
DGFT Portal → Services → Import Management System → Restricted Imports → Apply for Restricted Imports Authorisation
Step-by-Step Process:
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Login to DGFT portal
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Select Restricted Imports option
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Enter importer and product details
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Upload technical description and supporting documents
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Pay application fee online
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Submit application and receive File Number
The application status is tracked using the File Number.
Bulk Upload Facility for Multiple Items
DGFT provides a bulk upload Excel facility for importers applying for multiple restricted items.
Steps:
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Download sample Excel
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Fill item details offline
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Upload completed Excel file
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Validate ITC(HS) codes automatically
Common Errors:
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Empty or incorrect fields
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Invalid ITC(HS) code
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Non-restricted items included
DGFT Restricted Imports Application Fees
Fee Structure:
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₹1 per ₹1,000 of CIF value
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Minimum fee: ₹500
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Maximum fee: ₹1,00,000
Payment is accepted online only.
Additional fees apply if CIF value is increased while responding to a deficiency.
Validity of Restricted Imports Authorisation
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Authorisation is valid for 18 months from the date of issuance
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No automatic extension is allowed
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Import must be completed within validity period
How to Respond to DGFT Deficiency Letter
If your application is marked Deficient, follow this path:
My Dashboard → Submitted Applications → Respond Deficiency
You can:
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Upload missing documents without amendment, or
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Amend application details (if required)
After submission, the application is reprocessed by the DGFT officer.
Amendment of Restricted Imports Authorisation
Amendments are allowed only within the validity period.
Permissible Amendments:
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Addition of new items
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Reduction of quantity or CIF value
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Modification of Unit of Measurement (UOM)
Amendment Fee:
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₹200 basic fee
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Additional charges if CIF value increases
Revalidation of Restricted Imports Authorisation
If the import validity is expiring, revalidation can be applied for.
Application Path:
DGFT Portal → Services → Import Management System → Restricted Imports → Apply for Revalidation
Fee:
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₹500 for first revalidation
Revalidation extends import validity only.
Key Restrictions You Must Know
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Restricted Import Authorisations are non-transferable
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Port of Registration cannot be changed after issuance
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Only listed restricted items can be imported under the licence
Common Mistakes That Cause DGFT Delays
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Incorrect ITC(HS) code
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Poor technical description
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Incomplete past import details
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IEC profile not updated
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Late response to deficiencies
Avoiding these errors significantly improves approval timelines.
Why Choose DGFT EXIM for Restricted Imports?
DGFT procedures demand precision, compliance, and policy expertise.
DGFT EXIM provides:
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Eligibility assessment
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End-to-end DGFT application handling
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Deficiency response support
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Amendment and revalidation assistance
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Faster processing with compliance accuracy