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How to renew a Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)? A step-by-step Guide
Registration cum membership certificate certifies an exporter’s registration with an Export Promotion Council in India. Learn how to renew it online in this blog.
Indian exporters must stay compliant with DGFT regulations to continue receiving export incentives and access to global markets. One critical compliance document is the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC), which validates an exporter’s registration with the relevant Export Promotion Council (EPC). Since the certificate has a limited validity, RCMC renewal is mandatory to maintain eligibility for DGFT licensing, benefits under schemes like RoDTEP and more, and participation in international trade events.
This step-by-step blog covers everything Indian businesses need to know: what RCMC means, why renewal is necessary, validity and timelines, required documents, and the complete process for RCMC renewal through online portals.
This step-by-step blog covers everything Indian businesses need to know: what RCMC means, why renewal is necessary, validity and timelines, required documents, and the complete process for RCMC renewal through online portals.
What is Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)?
The Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) is an official certificate issued by authorized Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) or Commodity Boards recognized by the DGFT. It confirms an exporter’s registration with the appropriate council based on the product or sector.
For example, a textile exporter must register with the Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC), while an engineering goods exporter would approach the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC).
Purpose of RCMC:
● To provide access to export incentive schemes such as RoDTEP, SEIS, and MEIS.
● To help avail of concessional duty benefits under Foreign Trade Policy (FTP).
● To participate in trade delegations and EPC-sponsored exhibitions.
● To serve as a compliance requirement during DGFT licensing or customs clearance.1
For example, a textile exporter must register with the Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC), while an engineering goods exporter would approach the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC).
Purpose of RCMC:
● To provide access to export incentive schemes such as RoDTEP, SEIS, and MEIS.
● To help avail of concessional duty benefits under Foreign Trade Policy (FTP).
● To participate in trade delegations and EPC-sponsored exhibitions.
● To serve as a compliance requirement during DGFT licensing or customs clearance.1
Why does RCMC need to be renewed?
The RCMC is not a lifetime document; it requires periodic renewal. This system ensures that the issuing Export Promotion Councils and the DGFT maintain up-to-date records of active exporters and their business details. Regular renewal helps verify that the exporter continues to meet the eligibility criteria and adheres to the prevailing trade regulations.
Several circumstances necessitate an RCMC renewal:
Several circumstances necessitate an RCMC renewal:
● Certificate expiry: The most common reason is the expiration of the RCMC’s validity period, typically five years.
● Change in business activity: If the exporter significantly alters their main line of business or product category, they might need to update their RCMC or apply for a new one with the relevant EPC.
● Updating Importer Exporter Code (IEC): Any substantial changes in the details linked to the IEC, such as business constitution or directorship, may necessitate an RCMC update or renewal.
● EPC migration: In some instances, an exporter might shift their membership from one EPC to another if their product focus changes, requiring a new RCMC from the new council.2
Validity and timeline for RCMC renewal
The RCMC is valid for five years from the date of issuance, as per DGFT guidelines under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP). Exporters must renew the RCMC proactively, ideally 30–60 days before expiry, to avoid disruption in export benefits and allow time for necessary approvals and processing. While most EPCs offer a grace period of up to 30 days post-expiry, late renewals typically incur penalties, which vary by council and are outlined in their respective guidelines.
Documents required for RCMC renewal online
Below is the standard documentation checklist accepted by most EPCs for the renewal of RCMC:
● Valid Importer Exporter Code (IEC): A copy of the IEC certificate is fundamental. Ensure the IEC details are current.
● PAN card of business: A copy of the Permanent Account Number (PAN) card associated with the business entity.
● GST certificate: A copy of the GST registration certificate, reflecting the current business address and details.
● Previous RCMC copy: A self-attested copy of the expiring or expired RCMC is required for reference and verification.
● Board resolution/authorization letter: For companies (Private Limited or Public Limited), a board resolution authorizing a specific director or officer to apply for RCMC renewal is needed. For partnership firms or LLPs, an authorization letter signed by the partners may be required.
● Proof of business entity: Depending on the business structure, this could be a copy of the Partnership Deed (for partnership firms), Certificate of Incorporation (for companies), or other relevant registration documents.
● Export performance statement: Some EPCs may require a statement of export performance for the previous year(s), certified by a Chartered Accountant.
● Membership fee payment proof: Evidence of payment of the requisite membership renewal fee to the EPC.
● Application Submission: The DGFT application can be submitted using a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or through Aadhaar-based OTP authentication.3
Step-by-step guide for RCMC renewal online
Below is a simplified step-by-step RCMC renewal online process:
Step 1: Visit the EPC or DGFT portal:
Identify the issuing authority of your current RCMC. Navigate to their official website. Many EPCs have their own portals, while some might integrate with the common DGFT portal for RCMC services.
Step 2: Log in using your credentials:
Exporters need to log in using their Importer Exporter Code (IEC) and registered credentials (username and password). If renewing on the DGFT portal, the IEC itself often serves as the primary identifier.
Step 3: Navigate to RCMC renewal section:
Look for the ‘RCMC Services,’ ‘Membership Renewal,’ or ‘RCMC Renewal’ section. The terminology varies between portals.
Step 4: Upload required documents:
The portal will provide an interface to upload digital copies of the necessary documents. Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and in the prescribed format (usually PDF). Refer to the checklist provided by the EPC.
Step 5: Pay the renewal fee online:
The system will calculate the applicable renewal fee. This fee varies depending on the Export Promotion Council and the exporter’s category or export turnover. Payment is typically made online through various digital payment gateways.
Step 6: Submit application and download acknowledgment:
After completing the form, uploading documents, and making the payment, submit the application. The portal should generate an acknowledgment receipt or application reference number. Download and save this for future reference.
Step 7: Track status through portal dashboard:
Most portals offer a dashboard or tracking facility where exporters can monitor the status of their RCMC renewal application. The EPC will review the application and documents. If any discrepancies are found, they will communicate this through the portal or registered email.4
Conclusion
Staying compliant in international trade starts with renewing critical registrations like RCMC on time. The good news is that the entire RCMC renewal online process has become more accessible through digital portals. Exporters should maintain document checklists to avoid delays or penalties.
After all, a valid RCMC ensures that Indian businesses continue to enjoy export incentives, participate in global trade events, and access DGFT licenses without disruptions.
After all, a valid RCMC ensures that Indian businesses continue to enjoy export incentives, participate in global trade events, and access DGFT licenses without disruptions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the consequences of not renewing RCMC?
If RCMC is not renewed, the exporter becomes ineligible for DGFT incentives, EPC benefits, and international exhibitions. It may also lead to non-compliance issues during customs clearance.
2. How to check RCMC renewal status?
Exporters can check the status by logging into the EPC or DGFT portal using their IEC. The status is visible under the RCMC dashboard or notifications section.
3. How long does it take to process the renewal of the RCMC Certificate?
Within a maximum of 30 days of receiving the application and supporting documentation.
4. Can I renew my RCMC Certificate after it has expired?
The RCMC can be renewed only within the financial year in which it expires.5
Published on January 31, 2024.
Updated on August 5, 2025.
Sources:
1. https://www.indiafilings.com/rcmc-registration
2. https://www.dhl.com/discover/en-in/logistics-advice/logistics-insights/why-do-you-need-rcmc
3. https://afleo.com/rcmc-certificate-registration/
4. https://content.dgft.gov.in/Website/e-RCMC%20Customer%20Portal%20User%20Help%20File%20v2.0.pdf
5. https://content.dgft.gov.in/Website/e-RCMC%20Customer%20Portal%20User%20Help%20File%20v2.0.pdf
Updated on August 5, 2025.
Sources:
1. https://www.indiafilings.com/rcmc-registration
2. https://www.dhl.com/discover/en-in/logistics-advice/logistics-insights/why-do-you-need-rcmc
3. https://afleo.com/rcmc-certificate-registration/
4. https://content.dgft.gov.in/Website/e-RCMC%20Customer%20Portal%20User%20Help%20File%20v2.0.pdf
5. https://content.dgft.gov.in/Website/e-RCMC%20Customer%20Portal%20User%20Help%20File%20v2.0.pdf
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