The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has introduced a simplified procedure for expedited issuance of import authorisations for eligible silver bullion imports under ITC(HS) 7106. The initiative aims to reduce processing time for genuine applicants through a self-declaration-based approach.

This change follows Notification Nos. 17/2026-27 dated 16 May 2026 and 19/2026-27 dated 2 June 2026, which changed the import policy for specified silver items from ‘Free’ to ‘Restricted’.

Under the new procedure, eligible applicants who agree to import silver items at the generally applicable customs duty rate, without claiming concessions, may be considered for expedited processing. The procedure excludes silver dore and remains subject to applicable import policy conditions.

What Is the Simplified Procedure for Silver Bullion Import Authorisation?

The simplified procedure is designed to facilitate the issuance of import authorisations for specified silver items through self-declaration and trust.

Applicants seeking expedited processing must submit a declaration confirming that the proposed imports will be made on payment of customs duty at the generally applicable rate, without availing concessions.

Applications meeting the prescribed conditions may be considered for expedited disposal. Applications outside this category will undergo detailed scrutiny and examination on their merits.

Which Silver Items Require an Import Authorisation?

The revised import policy covers the following ITC(HS) codes:

• 71069110

• 71069120

• 71069221

• 71069229

The import policy for these items has changed from ‘Free’ to ‘Restricted’. Importers must therefore obtain the required authorisation in accordance with the applicable DGFT policy.

The simplified procedure described in the Trade Notice excludes silver dore.

How Can Importers Apply for Silver Bullion Import Authorisation?

Applicants must submit their applications through the DGFT online portal and complete the mandatory fields in the application form.

1. Complete the DGFT application

Applicants must provide all required information and explain the reasons for the quantity and value of imports proposed under the authorisation.

2. Submit the required self-declaration

Applicants seeking expedited processing must provide the prescribed self-declaration confirming that the proposed imports will be made at the generally applicable customs duty rate without claiming concessions.

3. Ensure that all information is accurate

Applicants remain responsible for the correctness and completeness of the information submitted. The self-declaration-based procedure does not remove the obligation to comply with the applicable import policy.

4. Await processing by DGFT

Complete applications that satisfy the conditions of the Trade Notice may be processed under the simplified procedure. DGFT may request additional information or documents and conduct detailed scrutiny wherever necessary.

What Happens to Pending Silver Import Authorisation Applications?

DGFT has provided a one-time opportunity for applicants whose applications are already pending on the portal.

Under this arrangement, pending applications will be marked as deficient on the portal to allow applicants to make the necessary revisions or declarations and submit the required self-declaration, wherever applicable.

The revised applications can then be considered under the procedure set out in the Trade Notice.

This arrangement is intended to give existing applicants an opportunity to benefit from the simplified process without having to rely solely on their original applications.

When Does the Simplified Procedure Take Effect?

Fresh applications and revised applications submitted under the one-time facility on or after 15 October 2026 may be processed under the simplified procedure, provided they are complete and satisfy the specified conditions.

Applicants should ensure that all mandatory information and declarations are submitted before expecting their applications to be considered for expedited disposal.

The Trade Notice does not guarantee approval or expedited processing for every application.

Where Can Silver Be Procured Under the Authorisation?

Import authorisations issued under this procedure will include a condition requiring the authorised silver items to be procured only through the following channels:

• India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX).

• Nominated Banks or Agencies notified under Appendix 4B of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), 2023, as amended.

This requirement is intended to channel imports through regulated routes and improve transparency and traceability.

Importers must comply with the procurement condition specified in their authorisation.

What Is the Validity of a Silver Import Authorisation?

Import authorisations issued under the simplified procedure will remain valid for six months from the date of issue.

The authorisation will not be eligible for extension. Importers should therefore plan procurement and import schedules carefully to ensure that transactions are completed within the validity period and in accordance with the authorisation conditions.

Note: DGFT Retains the Right to Scrutinise Applications

The simplified procedure does not eliminate DGFT’s authority to seek additional information or supporting documents.

DGFT may undertake detailed scrutiny whenever necessary to verify declarations and ensure compliance with applicable policy provisions.

Acceptance of an application based on self-declaration does not mean that statutory requirements or other import policy conditions can be disregarded.

Importers should review the relevant notifications, the applicable Foreign Trade Policy provisions and the conditions stated in their authorisations before proceeding with imports.

Conclusion

The simplified procedure for silver bullion import authorisation introduces a self-declaration-based route intended to expedite processing for eligible applicants. It also provides a one-time opportunity for pending applicants to revise their applications and submit the required declarations.

Importers dealing in the specified silver items should pay particular attention to the applicable customs duty conditions, the prescribed procurement channels through IIBX or notified nominated banks and agencies, and the six-month validity of the authorisation.

Before submitting an application, businesses should verify the latest DGFT requirements and ensure that their proposed imports comply with all applicable policy conditions.