Advance Authorisation (formerly advance licence) is a DGFT scheme under Chapter 4 of the Foreign Trade Policy 2023 that allows duty-free import of inputs physically used to make export products, based on standard input-output norms (SION) or ad hoc norms, in return for an export obligation that must be met within a set period.
What is the export obligation?
The quantity and value of exports you commit to when the authorisation is issued. Missing it makes the saved duty payable with interest.
When is drawback better?
When imported inputs are small or irregular. See Advance Authorisation vs duty drawback and our Advance Authorisation service.
Services that help
Related reading
Sources and official portals
Import Export Advisor is a private consultancy, not a government body. Scheme rules and fees change; this page reflects information checked on the date above. Confirm current requirements on the official portal before filing.