If you are planning to export agricultural or processed food products from India, APEDA registration online is mandatory. Many exporters search online for APEDA registration process, APEDA registration documents, and APEDA registration fees but often end up confused due to incomplete or outdated information.
This guide explains APEDA registration online in simple language. It covers eligibility, step-by-step process, documents required, fees, timeline, real exporter examples, and common mistakes—based on practical issues handled by CharteredHelp for exporters across India, especially Noida.
What is APEDA Registration?
APEDA registration is the process of registering exporters with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority, established under the APEDA Act, 1985.
Any exporter dealing in APEDA-scheduled products must complete APEDA online registration to obtain an RCMC certificate (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate). Without this certificate, exporting covered products is not permitted.
APEDA Act, 1985 – Purpose & Authority
APEDA functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. Its role is to regulate, promote, and facilitate exports of agricultural and processed food products.
Key Objectives:
Promote exports of scheduled agricultural products
Improve quality standards and packaging
Support exporters through trade fairs and buyer-seller meets
Provide financial and infrastructure assistance
APEDA Registration Eligibility
You are eligible for APEDA registration online if:
You have a valid Import Export Code (IEC)
You are exporting or planning to export APEDA scheduled products
You have an active business bank account
Note:
APEDA registration eligibility applies to proprietors, partnerships, LLPs, and private limited companies.
Who Needs APEDA Registration? (Practical Examples)
From our experience at CharteredHelp, APEDA registration is required in cases like:
Exporting basmati rice to Middle East
Exporting fresh fruits or vegetables
Exporting spices, pulses, cereals
Exporting meat, poultry, dairy products
Merchant exporters sourcing from Indian manufacturers
Even first-time exporters or Amazon Global sellers need APEDA registration before shipment.
Documents Required for APEDA Registration
To complete the APEDA registration process, you need to submit the following:
- Import-Export Code (IEC) Certificate.
- A bank certificate verifying the business account details.
- A duly filled online application form.
- Proof of business address (electricity bill, lease agreement, etc.).
- Digital signature for online submission.
- PAN Card
Cancelled cheque
Expert Insight:
Over 60% delays happen due to wrong bank certificate format, not missing documents.
APEDA Registration Online Process (Step-by-Step)
The registration process involves these steps:
- Visit the APEDA website at apeda.gov.in.
- Create an account by providing your mobile number and email ID.
- Fill out the online application form with business details.
- Upload the required documents, including the IEC and bank certificate.
- Pay the registration fee of Rs 5,000 (excluding taxes).
- Submit the application for approval.
Once approved, the exporter receives an RCMC certificate, essential for conducting export activities.
APEDA Registration Timeline
| Activity | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Online Application | Same Day |
| Document Verification | 2–3 Working Days |
| RCMC Issuance | 3–7 Working Days |
Note: Errors in documents may increase timeline.
APEDA Registration Fees for Exporters
One-time fee: ₹5,000
GST applicable
Paid through APEDA online portal
There is no annual renewal fee for APEDA registration.
What is APEDA RCMC Certificate?
The RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate) certificate APEDA confirms that an exporter is registered with APEDA. It is required for:
Export incentives and benefits
Government assistance schemes
Trade fair participation
Export compliance documentation
Without APEDA RCMC, exporters may face shipment or incentive issues.
Advantages of APEDA Registration
- Financial Assistance: Exporters can access government grants for infrastructure development and market research.
- Market Promotion: Participation in trade fairs and buyer-seller meets organized by APEDA.
- Training and Guidance: APEDA conducts workshops to enhance exporter capabilities.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensures exporters meet international standards.
Common Mistakes in APEDA Registration (Real Client Issues)
Based on 10+ years of exporter handling experience, we frequently see:
IEC name mismatch with bank account
Incorrect APEDA product selection
Wrong bank certificate format
Multiple APEDA RCMC applications
Incomplete business address proof
Note: These mistakes often lead to rejection or long delays.
Cancellation of APEDA Registration
APEDA registration may be cancelled if:
False information is submitted
Export regulations are violated
Exporter requests voluntary cancellation
A formal application with justification must be filed with APEDA.
Why Choose CharteredHelp for APEDA Registration Online?
CharteredHelp provides professional support for APEDA registration online with complete accuracy and compliance.
Why Exporters Trust Us:
Expert-handled documentation
Error-free APEDA online registration
Faster approvals
Post-registration export guidance
📍 Location: Noida, Uttar Pradesh
📞 Call Now: +91-9266685656
We also assist with GST Registration, IEC Code, and Export Compliance Services.
FAQs on APEDA Registration
Yes, APEDA registration online is mandatory for exporters dealing in APEDA-scheduled agricultural and processed food products. Without APEDA registration, exporters cannot legally export covered products from India.
Any business or individual having a valid Import Export Code (IEC) and planning to export APEDA-scheduled products is eligible for APEDA registration. This includes proprietorships, partnerships, LLPs, and private limited companies.
The main APEDA registration documents include:
Import Export Code (IEC)
Bank certificate in APEDA format
Cancelled cheque
Business address proof
PAN card
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
Usually, APEDA registration online takes 3 to 7 working days, provided all documents are correct. Any mismatch in IEC or bank details can delay the approval.
The APEDA registration fees is a one-time payment of ₹5,000, plus applicable taxes. The fee is paid online through the APEDA portal.
Yes, APEDA registration is valid for a lifetime and does not require any annual renewal once the RCMC certificate is issued.
The RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate) issued by APEDA confirms that an exporter is officially registered. It is required to avail export benefits, financial assistance, and participation in trade fairs.
Yes, exporters can apply for APEDA registration online even before their first export shipment. In fact, APEDA registration should be obtained before exporting scheduled products.
No, APEDA registration and FSSAI license are different. APEDA is required for export registration, while FSSAI is related to food safety. In many cases, exporters need both.
Common reasons include:
Incorrect bank certificate format
Mismatch between IEC and bank details
Selecting wrong product category
Incomplete or incorrect documents
Yes, APEDA registration can be cancelled due to non-compliance, submission of incorrect information, or voluntary request by the exporter.
Yes, CharteredHelp provides complete assistance for APEDA registration online, including document verification, application filing, and post-registration support.
Contact: +91-9266685656
Location: Noida, Uttar Pradesh
Conclusion
APEDA registration online is essential for exporters who want to legally export agricultural and processed food products from India. With correct documentation and expert support, the registration process becomes smooth and hassle-free.
For fast, accurate APEDA registration, connect with CharteredHelp today.
