DGFT Approval

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.