GLOBAL SELLING BLOG
What is an export license? Know types, documents required and how to apply for it
Exporters need to obtain an export license to sell goods from India. Learn more about its types, how to apply, the cost, and the documents required in this blog.
Securing an export license is a critical step for businesses seeking to expand internationally. Exporters often face challenges such as shipment delays, customs holds, or legal penalties simply because they overlooked this requirement. Whether you’re a first-time exporter or an established business scaling up operations, knowing what an export license is, what it covers, and how to apply for one can help streamline the compliance process and prevent costly missteps.
This blog outlines the types of export licenses available, documents required for obtaining one, goods that mandate licensing, estimated export license cost, and how to apply efficiently.
This blog outlines the types of export licenses available, documents required for obtaining one, goods that mandate licensing, estimated export license cost, and how to apply efficiently.
What is an export license?
An export license is an official permission from the government to export specific goods to specific countries. Certain products, especially those related to defense, dual-use technologies, or those listed under restricted categories, require such licenses under India’s foreign trade policy.
Within the list of products that can be exported, the Government of India categorizes them into: a) freely exportable, b) restricted, and c) prohibited. The Indian Trade Clarification (ITC), which is based on the Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) of coding, classifies export goods in India.
While prohibited goods cannot be exported, an export license is given to goods in restricted category, allowing Indian exporters to sell these products internationally. Once you have decided to export, you can check which category your products fall under and, accordingly, obtain a license if required. This license is issued after a careful review of facts provided in the export transaction.1
Within the list of products that can be exported, the Government of India categorizes them into: a) freely exportable, b) restricted, and c) prohibited. The Indian Trade Clarification (ITC), which is based on the Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) of coding, classifies export goods in India.
While prohibited goods cannot be exported, an export license is given to goods in restricted category, allowing Indian exporters to sell these products internationally. Once you have decided to export, you can check which category your products fall under and, accordingly, obtain a license if required. This license is issued after a careful review of facts provided in the export transaction.1
Types of export licenses
Different types of export licenses are issued based on the nature of the goods and destination. Each license addresses a specific purpose or category:2
Individual dual-use licenses
These licenses are typically issued for specific export transactions of dual-use items — goods, software, and technology — that have both commercial and potential military or proliferation applications.3
Open General Export License (OGEL)
The Ministry of Defense started the Open General Export Licence (OGEL) to allow certain defence parts to be exported to specific countries. The Department of Defence Production manages and approves OGEL applications. The steps to get an OGEL can change depending on the situation.4
Brokering activities licenses
Licences are required for activities related to brokering. Brokering involves individuals or organizations arranging or negotiating deals that may include the transfer of military equipment, technology, or software.5
What is the purpose of an export license?
An export license permits an exporter to export goods across the world. If a product falls under the restricted category of ITC (Indian Trade Classification), then an exporter requires an export license. Schedule II of the ITC-HS code provides terms and regulations related to export policies. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issues export licenses in India.6
Documents required for export license
To apply for export licenses, exporters need to submit specific documentation to support their application. These help authorities validate the legality and legitimacy of the exporter and the goods involved.7
● IEC certificate from DGFT (mandatory for all applicants)
● Application form for export license
● GST registration certificate
● PAN card and Aadhar card of the applicant/business owner
● Bank certificate or canceled cheque
● No objection certificate for rental property
● Purchase orders or supply contracts
● End-use or end-user certificate (especially for restricted goods)
● Technical literature or product specifications (for dual-use items)
How to apply for an export license
Applying for an export license is relatively straightforward when businesses follow the correct procedure. Most exporters begin with securing the Importer Exporter Code (IEC), which acts as the gateway to all trade activities. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the steps:
Step 1
Visit the DGFT portal and register for an IEC if not already done.
Step 2
Identify your product’s HS code and check if it falls under restricted or controlled categories using the ITC-HS classification tool.
Step 3
Prepare the necessary documents, including end-user certificates and technical descriptions.
Step 4
Login to the DGFT portal, navigate to “Services” and select “Export License Application.”
Step 5
Fill out the online form and upload the required documents.
Step 6
Pay the applicable fee and digitally sign the application.
Step 7
Track the status of your license using the Export Navigator tool, a centralized dashboard for exporters.8
What goods require an export license?
Not all goods require an export license. However, India restricts or regulates the export of certain categories. The license requirement usually applies to sensitive, hazardous, or controlled commodities.
● Defense and military equipment
● Nuclear materials and associated technology
● Chemicals and pharmaceuticals listed under Schedule 2 of ITC(HS)
● Wildlife and products derived from endangered species
● Rare earth materials and strategic minerals
● Dual-use items like drones, sensors, navigation systems
● Antiquities and artworks9
● Products under Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures
● Vintage motorcycles, parts, and components
● Artworks and culturally significant goods
What is the cost of an export license?
The export license cost varies based on the type of license, category of product, and government fee slabs. There is no fixed fee applicable across the board. Additional costs may arise from documentation, digital signature certificates, or consultancy services. Businesses should budget for administrative and compliance expenses, especially when dealing with complex categories or multiple license applications.10
Despite these costs, securing a valid export license can safeguard exporters from financial penalties, shipment seizures, and trade restrictions.
Despite these costs, securing a valid export license can safeguard exporters from financial penalties, shipment seizures, and trade restrictions.
Conclusion
In international trade, compliance is just as critical as product quality or demand. Obtaining the right export license protects businesses from regulatory violations, enhances credibility with overseas buyers, and ensures smoother customs clearance. As India continues to push its export-led growth strategy, it is essential for businesses to be well-informed and proactive in their approach to licensing.
For sellers ready to explore e-commerce exports, Amazon Global Selling offers a seamless way to launch and grow internationally. With minimal investment and powerful support tools, Indian brands can connect with global buyers, access millions of customers, and build a sustainable export business.
For sellers ready to explore e-commerce exports, Amazon Global Selling offers a seamless way to launch and grow internationally. With minimal investment and powerful support tools, Indian brands can connect with global buyers, access millions of customers, and build a sustainable export business.
Amazon Global Selling: Easy e-commerce exports and hassle-free shipping
If you are a business owner and you want to sell your products to the world, Amazon Global Selling enables you to list and sell ‘Made in India’ products on 18 Amazon global marketplaces. As an e-commerce export program, Amazon Global Selling provides support and guidance at every step of your export journey, connecting you to Amazon’s Service Provider Network for tailored compliance, payments, and logistics support.
Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfillment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.
Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfillment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.
Published on June 30, 2022.
Updated on July 07, 2025.
Sources:
1. https://www.dgft.gov.in/CP/?opt=export-management-system
2. https://www.wallstreetmojo.com/export-license/
3. https://learning.sap.com/learning-journeys/configuring-and-using-legal-control/understanding-the-purpose-of-license-types
4. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/export-licence/#Different_Types_of_Export_Licences
5. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/export-licence/#Different_Types_of_Export_Licences
6. hhttps://www.freightos.com/glossary/what-is-an-export-license/
7. https://www.credlix.com/blogs/how-to-apply-for-an-export-license-in-india
8. https://nimbuspost.com/blog/how-to-get-an-export-license-in-india/
9. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/export-licence/
10. https://www.professionalutilities.com/import-export-license-fees.php
Updated on July 07, 2025.
Sources:
1. https://www.dgft.gov.in/CP/?opt=export-management-system
2. https://www.wallstreetmojo.com/export-license/
3. https://learning.sap.com/learning-journeys/configuring-and-using-legal-control/understanding-the-purpose-of-license-types
4. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/export-licence/#Different_Types_of_Export_Licences
5. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/export-licence/#Different_Types_of_Export_Licences
6. hhttps://www.freightos.com/glossary/what-is-an-export-license/
7. https://www.credlix.com/blogs/how-to-apply-for-an-export-license-in-india
8. https://nimbuspost.com/blog/how-to-get-an-export-license-in-india/
9. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/export-licence/
10. https://www.professionalutilities.com/import-export-license-fees.php
Get started with $50,000 in incentives
Ready to sell with Amazon? As a new seller, you can take advantage of a series of incentives.
10% back on your first $50,000 in branded sales, then 5% back through your first year until you reach $1,000,000
$200 credit towards fulfillment costs when you use Amazon Global Selling SEND
$400 credit for inbound placement costs
Free storage and customer returns with auto-enrollment in the FBA New Selection program
$50 credit to create Sponsored Products or Sponsored Brands ads
*This offer is limited to selling on Amazon US, UK, France, Italy, Spain, or Germany marketplaces.
Terms and conditions apply.
Terms and conditions apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who provides an export-import license?
Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is responsible for providing an export-import license in India.
2. Which license is required for export?
To export any product under ‘restricted goods’ in the IHC (Inland Haulage Charges) list, an export license is required. India’s Foreign Trade Policy considers all goods as free exportable except the ones that are restricted or prohibited.
3. Is an import export license mandatory for all businesses?
Yes, obtaining an IEC is mandatory for anyone who wants to export goods from India. Without it, customs clearance and international payments cannot be processed.
4. How long does it take to get an export license?
It typically takes 5–15 working days to process a license application after all documents are submitted. Timelines may vary depending on the category of goods.
5. What happens if I export without a license?
Exporting without a required license can lead to shipment confiscation, penalties under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, and even blacklisting from future trade.
Disclaimer: Whilst Amazon Seller Services Private Limited ("Amazon") has used reasonable endeavours in compiling the information provided, Amazon provides no assurance as to its accuracy, completeness or usefulness or that such information is error-free. In certain cases, the blog is provided by a third-party seller and is made available on an "as-is" basis. Amazon hereby disclaims any and all liability and assumes no responsibility whatsoever for consequences resulting from use of such information. Information provided may be changed or updated at any time, without any prior notice. You agree to use the information, at your own risk and expressly waive any and all claims, rights of action and/or remedies (under law or otherwise) that you may have against Amazon arising out of or in connection with the use of such information. Any copying, redistribution or republication of the information, or any portion thereof, without prior written consent of Amazon is strictly prohibited.
*Map not to scale. The map has been used for design and representational purpose only, it does not depict the geographical boundaries of the country. These do not conform to the external boundaries of India recognized by the Survey of India.
*Map not to scale. The map has been used for design and representational purpose only, it does not depict the geographical boundaries of the country. These do not conform to the external boundaries of India recognized by the Survey of India.
Get started with $50,000 in potential incentives.
© 2024 Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. All rights reserved
