SCOMET Certificate – Registration, Process, Cost & Compliance Guide

SCOMET Certificate is mandatory for exporting sensitive or dual-use items listed under India’s export control regime.
Issued through the DGFT Portal, SCOMET approval ensures legal, traceable, and compliant exports.
Incorrect classification or missing approvals can result in heavy penalties, shipment seizure, or export bans.

Introduction

A few months ago, an Indian exporter of industrial electronics contacted us after a shipment was unexpectedly stopped at customs. The product had been exported multiple times before without any issue. What changed this time was not the product—but the law.

A recent update to the SCOMET category list brought their item under export control, making a SCOMET Certificate mandatory. By the time this was discovered, the shipment was already delayed, the overseas buyer was frustrated, and the exporter was facing compliance scrutiny.

As India strengthens its export control framework and aligns with global non-proliferation regimes, SCOMET compliance has moved from a niche requirement to a mainstream export obligation.

Exporters dealing with chemicals, electronics, software, aerospace components, advanced materials, or dual-use technologies can no longer assume that routine exports are exempt from regulatory oversight.

What Is a SCOMET Certificate?

A SCOMET Certificate is a mandatory export authorization issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) that permits Indian exporters to ship goods classified as sensitive or dual-use outside India. These are items that may have legitimate commercial or civilian applications but can also be misused for military, nuclear, chemical, biological, or strategic purposes.

In regulatory terms, the SCOMET Certificate functions as a SCOMET License or SCOMET Export License, granted through the DGFT Portal under India’s Foreign Trade Policy. It confirms that the Government of India has reviewed the product, the end user, the destination country, and the declared end use—and has approved the export under specified conditions.

Why SCOMET Approval Is Critical for Sensitive & Dual-Use Exports

Sensitive and dual-use exports sit at a unique intersection of commerce, national security, and international obligations. While these products are often developed for legitimate industrial or civilian use, the same technology can be diverted for military, surveillance, or prohibited applications.

This is precisely why SCOMET approval is treated as a high-priority regulatory requirement by Indian authorities.

Protection from legal and financial risk

Exporting a controlled item without SCOMET approval can lead to severe penalties, suspension of IEC, blacklisting, or prosecution under the FTDR Act—even if the violation was unintentional.

Credibility with global buyers and regulators

International customers increasingly demand proof that suppliers follow export control laws. A valid SCOMET Export License signals strong compliance practices and reduces buyer-side risk.

Alignment with international export control regimes

India’s SCOMET framework aligns with global non-proliferation and export control standards. Compliance ensures Indian exporters remain trusted participants in global supply chains.

Operational continuity

Shipments without SCOMET approval are vulnerable to customs holds, investigations, and cancellations. A cleared SCOMET authorization ensures smoother clearance and predictable delivery timelines.

What Is SCOMET?

SCOMET stands for Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment & Technologies. It is India’s official export control framework designed to regulate the export of items that are considered strategic, sensitive, or dual-use in nature.

The SCOMET regulatory mechanism in India is administered by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), which functions under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India.

All applications for a SCOMET Certificate or SCOMET Export License are submitted and processed through the DGFT Portal, where they are reviewed in coordination with technical and security agencies depending on the product category involved.

Legal Framework Governing SCOMET

The authority of DGFT to regulate SCOMET exports is derived from the following statutory instruments:

Foreign Trade Policy (FTP)
The FTP lays down the overall policy framework for India’s exports and imports, including restrictions, prohibitions, and licensing requirements for sensitive goods.

ITC (HS) Schedule II – Export Policy
This schedule specifically lists export-controlled items and incorporates the SCOMET category list, defining which goods require prior authorization before export.

Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992 (FTDR Act)
The FTDR Act provides the legal backing for enforcement, penalties, and punitive action in cases of non-compliance or unauthorized exports of SCOMET items.

Failure to comply is treated as a serious export control violation, not a procedural lapse.

Who Needs a SCOMET Certificate?

A SCOMET Certificate is required by any exporter whose goods, technology, or technical data fall under the SCOMET category list, regardless of the size of the business or the value of the shipment. The requirement is based on what is being exported, not on who is exporting it.

In practice, the following categories of exporters most commonly require a SCOMET License or SCOMET Export License:

Exporters of Dual-Use Goods

Companies exporting products that have both civilian and potential military or strategic applications—such as advanced electronics, specialised machinery, or precision instruments—must obtain SCOMET approval before shipment.

Manufacturers of Controlled Items

Manufacturers exporting chemicals, materials, equipment, or components listed under SCOMET categories are required to secure approval, even if the items are being exported as samples or in small quantities.

Technology & Software Exporters

SCOMET controls apply not only to physical goods but also to:

• Software and source code
• Embedded firmware
• Technical drawings, blueprints, and design files
• Know-how shared electronically or through cloud access

Technology companies exporting high-end software, encryption-related tools, or advanced computing solutions often fall under SCOMET Category 7.

Defence, Aerospace, Nuclear & Biotech Sectors

Entities operating in defence manufacturing, aerospace systems, nuclear-related equipment, biotechnology, or advanced research are routinely subject to SCOMET licensing due to the strategic nature of their products.

Startups, MSMEs & First-Time Exporters

SCOMET obligations apply equally to startups and MSMEs. Many first-time exporters unintentionally violate SCOMET rules due to lack of awareness, making early classification and compliance critical.

SCOMET Item Categories

The SCOMET Category List is the backbone of India’s export control system. It classifies sensitive goods, technologies, and materials into clearly defined categories based on their strategic risk, end-use potential, and international control obligations. If a product matches the technical description or threshold mentioned in any category, a SCOMET Certificate / SCOMET Export License becomes mandatory before export.

The classification is notified under ITC (HS) Schedule II – Export Policy and is administered by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade through the DGFT Portal.

When Is a SCOMET License (SCOMET Export License) Required?

A SCOMET License (SCOMET Export License) is required before exporting any product, software, or technical data that falls under the SCOMET category list notified by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). The obligation is triggered by the nature, specification, and end-use of the item, not by the exporter’s intent or shipment value.

In practical terms, a SCOMET license is mandatory in the following situations:

• When the product is listed under any SCOMET category
  If the item matches the technical description or threshold mentioned in ITC (HS) Schedule II – Export Policy, prior SCOMET approval is compulsory.
• When exporting dual-use goods or technologies
  Products that have both civilian and potential military, nuclear, or security-related applications require approval, even if the declared use is purely commercial.
• When software, source code, or technical know-how is exported
  SCOMET controls apply to digital exports as well, including software downloads, cloud access, email transfers, and sharing of technical drawings or manuals.
• When exporting to sensitive or high-risk destinations
  Certain countries and regions attract higher scrutiny, making SCOMET licensing essential even for borderline cases.
• When exporting prototypes, samples, or trial shipments
  Free samples, demo units, R&D prototypes, and evaluation equipment are not exempt from SCOMET regulations.
• When there is any ambiguity in classification or end-use
  If there is doubt about whether an item falls under SCOMET, exporters are expected to seek clarification or approval before shipment, not after.

Eligibility Criteria for SCOMET License / SCOMET Export License

To apply for a SCOMET License / SCOMET Export License, an exporter must satisfy specific regulatory and operational conditions laid down by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). Eligibility is assessed on ability, product control, and traceability, rather than on business size or export volume.

An applicant is generally eligible if the following criteria are met:

• Valid Import Export Code (IEC)
  The exporter must hold an active IEC issued by DGFT. Applications without a valid IEC are not entertained.
• Legal Business Registration in India
  The applicant must be a legally registered entity in India (proprietorship, partnership, LLP, private limited, public limited, etc.).
• Product Falls Under SCOMET Category List
  The item intended for export must match the technical specifications, parameters, or descriptions listed under any SCOMET category in ITC (HS) Schedule II.
• Clear End-Use and End-User Details
  The exporter must be able to clearly identify:
  • The overseas buyer
  • The ultimate end user
  • The intended end use of the product
  A valid End-User Certificate (EUC) is mandatory in most cases.
• Availability of Technical Documentation
  Detailed technical specifications, product brochures, drawings, or software descriptions must be available to enable accurate classification and assessment.
• No Serious History of Export Control Violations
  Exporters with past violations may still apply, but applications are subject to heightened scrutiny and additional compliance checks.
• Ability to Comply with License Conditions
  The exporter must demonstrate the ability to comply with conditions attached to the SCOMET approval, such as shipment limits, validity periods, and reporting obligations.

SCOMET vs Non-SCOMET Exports (Comparison Table)

SCOMET Certificate Registration Process (Step-by-Step)

Product Classification

Identify whether the product, software, or technology falls under the SCOMET category list based on technical specifications.

End-Use & End-User Verification

Confirm buyer details, destination country, and intended end use; obtain the End-User Certificate (EUC).

Online Application on DGFT Portal

File the SCOMET license application through the DGFT Portal with complete technical and commercial details.

Inter-Ministerial Review

DGFT coordinates with concerned technical and security ministries for evaluation.

Grant of SCOMET Authorization

Upon approval, the SCOMET Export License is issued with specific validity and conditions.

Documents Required for SCOMET Certificate

To apply for a SCOMET Certificate / SCOMET Export License, exporters must submit complete and accurate documentation through the DGFT Portal. The following documents are typically required by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT):

• Import Export Code (IEC) Certificate
• Detailed Product Technical Specifications (datasheets, drawings, brochures, software description)
• End-User Certificate (EUC) from the overseas buyer
• Purchase Order / Export Contract
• Company Profile with business activities
• Manufacturing or Development Process Details
• Previous Export History (if applicable)

SCOMET Certificate Cost in India

Validity of SCOMET Certificate

Validity is generally one yea

Approval may be:

• Shipment-specific, or
• Bulk / multiple shipment based

Conditions are clearly mentioned in the approval letter and must be followed strictly as specific conditions.

SCOMET Certificate Renewal & Amendment

A SCOMET Certificate / SCOMET Export License is not a one-time approval that can be reused indefinitely. It is issued with specific conditions, and exporters must apply for renewal or amendment whenever those conditions change or the validity expires. All such requests are handled by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) through the DGFT Portal.

When Is SCOMET Renewal Required?

Renewal (also referred to as revalidation) is required when:

• The validity period of the SCOMET license is nearing expiry
• Approved exports could not be completed within the original validity
• Additional time is needed to fulfil the same approved export order

Renewal must be applied for before the license expires. Expired licenses cannot be revived retrospectively.

When Is Amendment Required?

An amendment application is required if there is any change in the originally approved details, such as:

• Change in buyer or end user
• Change in destination country
• Change in product specifications or description
• Increase or modification in quantity or value
• Correction of clerical or technical errors in the approval

Even minor changes must be formally amended—exporting on the basis of outdated approval is treated as non-compliance.

Process for Renewal or Amendment

• File an online application on the DGFT Portal
• Quote the original SCOMET authorization number
• Submit supporting documents justifying the change or extension
• Pay the applicable DGFT fee
• Await review and approval by DGFT (and other authorities, if required)

Timeline for SCOMET Approval

The SCOMET approval timeline varies based on product sensitivity, category, and clarity of documentation. Applications are processed by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) through an inter-ministerial review mechanism.

Common Challenges in SCOMET Certification

While the SCOMET framework is well-defined, exporters often face practical challenges during application and approval. Most issues arise not because the product is ineligible, but because SCOMET compliance is technical, documentation-driven, and risk-based. Below are the most common challenges encountered during SCOMET certification:

Incorrect Product Classification
Misinterpreting the SCOMET category list or relying on product names instead of technical parameters often leads to rejection or prolonged scrutiny.

Incomplete or Weak End-User Details
Vague end-use descriptions, missing End-User Certificates (EUC), or unclear buyer credentials raise red flags during inter-ministerial review.

Insufficient Technical Documentation
Lack of detailed specifications, drawings, software architecture, or performance data makes it difficult for authorities to assess risk.

Delays in Inter-Ministerial Review
Applications involving sensitive categories or destinations may require consultations with multiple departments, extending timelines.

Changes After Application Submission
Modifications in product specs, quantity, or consignee after filing often require amendments, causing avoidable delays.

Penalties for Exporting Without SCOMET Approval

Exporting SCOMET-listed items without prior approval is treated as a serious violation of India’s export control laws, irrespective of whether the non-compliance was intentional or due to lack of awareness. Enforcement action is taken under the Foreign Trade Policy and the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992, and cases are handled by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

The key penalties and consequences include:

Monetary Penalties
Heavy financial penalties may be imposed, often linked to the value of the unauthorized export, along with recovery of duty benefits already claimed.

Suspension or Cancellation of IEC
DGFT may suspend or cancel the exporter’s Import Export Code, effectively halting all export and import operations.

Blacklisting and Compliance Alerts
Exporters may be blacklisted or placed under heightened scrutiny for future shipments, leading to repeated inspections and delays.

Confiscation or Seizure of Goods
Shipments exported without SCOMET approval can be seized or confiscated by customs authorities.

Legal Proceedings
Serious violations may attract prosecution under the FTDR Act, resulting in long-term legal and reputational damage.

Benefits of Professional SCOMET Consultancy

SCOMET compliance is highly technical and risk-sensitive. Engaging a professional SCOMET consultancy helps exporters move beyond trial-and-error filings and ensures that approvals are obtained accurately, efficiently, and defensibly. The value of expert support lies not just in faster approvals, but in long-term compliance protection.

Key benefits include:

Accurate SCOMET Classification
Professionals assess products against technical thresholds, not just descriptions, reducing the risk of misclassification and rejection.

Faster Approval Timelines
Well-prepared applications with complete documentation face fewer DGFT queries and smoother inter-ministerial review.

Reduced Rejection & Objection Risk
Clear end-use narratives, compliant EUCs, and structured technical submissions significantly improve approval success rates.

Alignment with DGFT & International Regimes
Consultants ensure applications meet DGFT expectations while aligning with global export control norms and non-proliferation obligations.

Strategic Compliance Support
Beyond approvals, professional consultants help exporters build internal compliance processes to avoid future violations.

Why Choose Us for SCOMET Certificate Services

SCOMET compliance is not just about submitting an application—it is about getting the classification, documentation, and risk assessment right the first time. Our approach to SCOMET Certificate services is built around regulatory precision, practical export experience, and accountability at every stage of the process.

Here’s what sets us apart:

End-to-End DGFT Handling
We manage the complete SCOMET process on the DGFT Portal—from classification and filing to queries, approvals, renewals, and amendments.

Strong Technical Documentation Expertise
Our team works closely with exporters to translate complex product specifications, software architecture, and manufacturing processes into DGFT-ready submissions.

Proven Approval Track Record
We have successfully handled SCOMET approvals across multiple categories, including high-scrutiny electronics, chemicals, and technology exports.

Dedicated Compliance Support
Each client is assigned a compliance specialist who understands both regulatory requirements and real-world export timelines.

Transparent Pricing & Clear Timelines
No hidden charges, no overpromising. We provide upfront clarity on scope, cost, and expected approval timelines.

Conclusion: SCOMET Compliance Is Strategic, Not Optional

SCOMET compliance is no longer just a regulatory requirement—it is a strategic safeguard for exporters of sensitive and dual-use good. With tighter enforcement, evolving category definitions, and increased scrutiny by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, even a small compliance gap can disrupt exports and damage credibility.

At Silvereye Certifications, we help exporters navigate SCOMET classification, licensing, and ongoing compliance with clarity and confidence. If your product, software, or technology falls anywhere near the SCOMET category list, proactive guidance today can prevent costly penalties and shipment delays tomorrow.

SCOMET compliance done right protects your business—and keeps your global trade moving.