Export House Certification

The Export House Certification is a prestigious recognition granted by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Government of India, to businesses that demonstrate consistent export performance. This certification is part of the Status Holder Scheme under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), designed to promote India’s export capabilities by encouraging and supporting high-performing exporters.

Being recognized as an Export House provides exporters with exclusive benefits, including faster processing of applications, reduced compliance requirements, and priority treatment in customs and DGFT dealings. It’s not just a certificate—it's a mark of excellence, trust, and credibility in the global trade ecosystem.

 What Is Export House Status Recognition?

Export House status is a recognition granted to exporters who achieve a certain level of export performance over a continuous period. It acts as a badge of honor that acknowledges an exporter’s contribution to the Indian economy and allows them to avail various administrative and procedural benefits.

Depending on the export turnover achieved over the current year and previous three financial years, DGFT grants exporters status ranging from One Star to Five Star Export House.

This recognition facilitates smoother business operations, builds global buyer confidence, and helps exporters access enhanced government support.

 Why Is Export House Certification Important?

The certification is a game-changer for businesses involved in international trade. It not only strengthens their reputation in the global market but also helps in unlocking benefits such as:

• Priority processing for licenses, schemes, and incentives by DGFT

• Faster customs clearances due to trusted exporter status

• Waivers and exemptions from certain security deposits and bank guarantees

• Access to government procurement opportunities where Export House status is a requirement

• Quota preference in exports where applicable

• Enhanced brand image and trustworthiness in the eyes of international buyers and logistics partners

By becoming a recognized Export House, businesses signal their commitment to global quality standards and consistent trade volumes.

 Eligibility Criteria for Export House Status

To be eligible for Export House Certification, a business must meet certain core requirements. Firstly, the exporter must possess a valid Importer Exporter Code (IEC), which is the fundamental registration required to conduct international trade in India. Secondly, the exporter must have been actively involved in exports for a minimum period of three financial years.

Most importantly, the business must achieve a defined minimum value of exports in terms of Free on Board (FOB) value, combining physical exports, deemed exports, and service exports. The performance is calculated cumulatively over the current year and the preceding three financial years. The higher the export value, the higher the status level that can be achieved—from One Star to Five Star.

 Documents Required for Export House Certification

Exporters applying for status recognition need to prepare and submit a set of important documents, including:

• A copy of the IEC Certificate, which must be active and updated

• A detailed Chartered Accountant Certificate specifying the FOB value of exports for the relevant years

• Copy of the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) issued by an Export Promotion Council

• Self-certified declaration regarding accuracy and compliance

• Active Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for submission on the DGFT portal

• Any additional documents as may be required for clarification by the DGFT during the assessment

Ensuring that all information is correct and up to date is essential, as incorrect or incomplete data can lead to rejection or delays in processing.

 Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Export House Certification

1. The exporter must first log in to the DGFT portal using their credentials linked with their IEC.

2. After logging in, navigate to the “Exporter Recognition” section under the “Services” tab.

3. Select the application form for status holder certification.

4. Enter details of export turnover, IEC, and PAN, along with the relevant years of export activity.

5. Upload the necessary documents, including the Chartered Accountant’s certification and DSC validation.

6. Submit the application online for review and verification by the DGFT regional office.

7. After assessment and approval, the Status Certificate is issued digitally and can be downloaded.

 Duration and Validity

Once approved, the Export House certificate remains valid for five years from the date of issuance. It must be renewed before expiry to continue enjoying the privileges. Exporters must maintain their performance levels to retain their status or upgrade to a higher category.

 Practical Use of Export House Status

Many government and semi-government procurement agencies, tenders, and international buyers give preference to exporters who hold this status. It becomes easier for the company to negotiate payment terms, secure larger orders, or obtain credit facilities from banks.

For instance, if your company applies for an Advance Authorization License or Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme, having an Export House certificate can waive off the requirement of submitting a bank guarantee, reducing both time and cost.

 Common Benefits Enjoyed by Export Houses

• Quicker allotment of MEIS, RoDTEP, or RoSCTL claims

• Relaxation in export obligations under EPCG for Star Export Houses

• Faster approval of industrial clearances

• Enhanced recognition at international trade fairs and expos

• Increased credibility in Letters of Credit (LC) transactions

• Priority consideration for capacity-building programs, incentives, and subsidies

The Export House certificate isn’t just symbolic—it’s a gateway to administrative ease, cost savings, and global recognition.

 How YKG Global Helps You Get Export House Certification

At YKG Global, we specialize in guiding exporters through every step of the status recognition process—from eligibility assessment to documentation, application, and post-approval compliance. Our team handles:

• Preparation and validation of FOB performance sheets

• Coordination with Chartered Accountants for accurate certification

• Application filing on the DGFT portal with error-free documentation

• Status tracking, follow-ups, and representation in case of queries

• Guidance on leveraging the certification for other DGFT and Customs schemes

We ensure that exporters are not only certified but also educated on how to best use their new Export House status to grow their global trade operations.

 Why Exporters Trust YKG Global

• Over 40 years of experience in trade documentation and export consulting

• Support for exporters in over 25 countries

• Specialized teams for DGFT, Customs, and Trade Facilitation

• 360° assistance from IEC to Export House to Trade Compliance

• Strong track record of success in status certification and export incentives

Whether you're a small manufacturer aiming for One Star status or a large enterprise targeting Five Star Export House certification, YKG Global can guide you through the process smoothly and efficiently.

 Pro Tips for Exporters

• Keep your export records properly audited and categorized for faster application approval.

• Apply as early as possible in the financial year to maximize benefit duration.

• Stay updated with DGFT trade notices and FTP revisions, as eligibility criteria may change.

• Use your status to access additional government and buyer-side opportunities.