SCOMET License Validity, Renewal and Export Authorization: Detailed Guide

Planning to send high-tech goods, special chemicals, or advanced electronics out of India? Then you may need a SCOMET license. SCOMET is short for Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment and Technologies. These are "dual-use" items, which means they can be used for normal, daily tasks and also for military purposes.

Here is a simple example. A strong chemical used to clean factory machines could, in the wrong hands, be used to make an explosive. That is why the government keeps a close eye on who buys such items abroad.

This guide explains what a SCOMET license is, how long it lasts, how to renew it, and how to apply for it.

Importance of a SCOMET License 

India has a responsibility to make sure that its exports are not acquired by terrorists, weapons makers, or anyone else who might misuse them. Wrong shipment can damage national security and India's image in world trade.

Exporting without authorization may result in fines of up to five times the FOB value, up to 5 years in prison, and even suspension or cancelation of your IEC (Import Export Code).

SCOMET License List: What Items are Covered?

The official SCOMET license list is in Appendix 3 of Schedule 2 of the ITC (HS) Classification, published by DGFT. It is split into categories numbered 0 to 8, covering nuclear materials, toxic chemicals, microorganisms, aerospace systems, munitions, and advanced electronics.

• DGFT handles Categories 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8; 

• The Department of Atomic Energy handles Category 0, and 

• The Department of Defence Production handles Category 6.

DGFT revised it through Notification No. 31/2025-26 of September 2025, so always check the latest version before you ship any product.

Read More DGFT Delhi Registration Certificate in 2026

SCOMET License Application: Step-by-Step Guide

You can apply for an SCOMET license online through the DGFT website. This is how:

1. Log in to dgft.gov.in and go to Services, then Export Management System, then the SCOMET section.

2. Start a new application and fill in details about your items, buyer, consignee, and end user.

3. Upload your documents, pay the fee (₹500), and submit.

The key documents you need to submit while applying are: End Use-cum-End User Certificate (EUC), purchase orders, technical specifications of your product, and supply contract.

After you submit, your application goes to the Inter-Ministerial Working Group (IMWG), which includes members from the Ministry of External Affairs, DRDO, ISRO, and other bodies. If any member of the IMWG does not give a No Objection Certificate, the application is rejected.

SCOMET Certificate Validity: How Long Does It Last?

A SCOMET authorization is valid for 24 months from the date it is issued. It is like a two-year pass for exporting the specific items written on the license.

Keep in mind that you can only export items listed in that authorization. You cannot add new items to it on your own, and SCOMET authorizations cannot be transferred to anyone else.

SCOMET License Fees

Here are the fees published by DGFT for SCOMET licenses:

• New application: ₹1,000, paid online, for each application.

• Amendment or correction: ₹200.

• Site visit: ₹1,000.

* Charges are subject to change. Please refer to the DGFT portal for current amounts before making payment.

SCOMET License Renewal: How Does Revalidation Work?

You can extend the validity of the license if you still have shipments pending at the end of the two-year period mentioned in your SCOMET license. This is known as revalidation. Here are the steps:

• Extension period: On merit, extra time is given for six months at a time, up to a maximum of 12 months in total.

• When to apply: Apply 30 days before your authorization expires, and pay a fee of ₹500.

• Start date: The extra time starts counting from the original expiry date, not from the day you applied.

There are some exceptions. Authorizations for transferring technology or software cannot be revalidated. Neither can authorizations issued under global schemes such as GAEC, GAICT, GAER, GAEIS, GAET and GAED.

SCOMET license India rules exist to keep sensitive goods in safe hands. Know your category, apply early, track your 24-month validity, and file for revalidation at least 30 days before expiry. 

Read More SCOMET License Fees in India: Govt. Charges & Costs

FAQs

1. How long is a SCOMET license valid?

A SCOMET license is valid for 24 months from the date of issue. If you need more time, you can get it extended six months at a time, up to a maximum of 12 extra months.

2. Can I apply for a SCOMET license online?

Yes. Log in to dgft.gov.in and go to Services, then Export Management System, then SCOMET. Upload your documents, pay the ₹1,000 fee, and submit.