Overview
DGFT Approval is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. DGFT approvals are required for various import–export activities, export incentives, authorisations, and special permissions under India’s Foreign Trade Policy (FTP).
Businesses involved in international trade must obtain relevant DGFT approvals to legally import or export restricted items, claim export benefits, and comply with trade regulations.
At Adviso Compliance, we provide complete DGFT approval services, including application filing, documentation, and authority coordination.
What is DGFT Approval?
DGFT approval is an official authorization granted to businesses for carrying out specific import or export activities. These approvals regulate foreign trade, ensure compliance with trade laws, and facilitate smooth international transactions.
DGFT approvals may be required for:
Export incentives and schemes
Import or export of restricted goods
Trade authorisations and licences
Policy relaxations and permissions
Who Needs DGFT Approval?
DGFT approval is required for:
Importers and exporters
Manufacturers engaged in international trade
Export-oriented units (EOUs)
Merchant exporters
Businesses availing export incentive schemes
Companies dealing in restricted or regulated items
Any entity involved in foreign trade under regulated categories must obtain DGFT approval.
Types of DGFT Approvals
DGFT approvals may include:
IEC-Linked Approvals
Approvals linked with Import Export Code for trade activities.
Export Incentive Approvals
Authorizations under schemes such as RoDTEP, Advance Authorisation, EPCG, etc.
Restricted Item Permissions
Special approvals for importing or exporting restricted or prohibited goods.
Policy Relaxation Approvals
Approvals granted under DGFT policy relaxations.
Each approval type has specific eligibility criteria and documentation.
Why DGFT Approval is Important
DGFT approval is important because it:
Is legally required under Foreign Trade Policy
Enables lawful import and export activities
Allows availing export incentives and benefits
Prevents customs delays and penalties
Ensures compliance with international trade laws
Supports business expansion in global markets
Operating without required DGFT approvals can lead to severe penalties.
Documents Required for DGFT Approval
Documents vary based on approval type but generally include:
Import Export Code (IEC)
Business registration certificate
PAN card and GST registration
Bank details and AD code
Product and trade details
Invoice and shipping documents
Authorization letters
Our experts ensure accurate documentation to avoid rejection.
DGFT Approval Process
At Adviso Compliance, the DGFT approval process includes:
Step 1: Eligibility Assessment
We assess your trade activity and required DGFT approval type.
Step 2: Documentation Preparation
All supporting documents are prepared and verified.
Step 3: Online Application Filing
Application is filed on the DGFT online portal.
Step 4: Authority Review
DGFT reviews the application and may request clarification.
Step 5: Approval Issuance
Upon approval, DGFT authorization or licence is issued.
Validity of DGFT Approval
Validity depends on the type of approval
Some approvals are shipment-based
Others are valid for a fixed period
Renewal or revalidation may be required in certain cases.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to obtain or comply with DGFT approval may result in:
Heavy fines and penalties
Suspension of IEC
Seizure of goods
Customs clearance issues
Legal action under Foreign Trade laws
Proper DGFT approval ensures uninterrupted trade operations.
Why Choose Adviso Compliance for DGFT Approval?
DGFT compliance experts
End-to-end approval handling
Accurate documentation & filing
Faster processing
Transparent pricing
PAN-India service support
We ensure smooth DGFT approvals for your trade needs.
FAQs – DGFT Approval
Only for activities requiring authorization under Foreign Trade Policy.
Yes, DGFT approvals are processed online through the DGFT portal.
Generally 7–20 working days, depending on approval type.
Yes, IEC is mandatory for most DGFT approvals.