- APEDA RCMC Government Fee: ₹5,900 (₹5,000 + 18% GST), as stated in the applicable APEDA circular. Renewal is listed at the same fee, while amendments carry no fee, subject to current rules.
- No Turnover-Based Slabs: The cited circular lists a single fee rather than turnover-based charges. Ask for an official source if quoted a different government fee.
- Additional Costs: Budget for a valid IEC, the applicable IEC fee if a new one is required, manufacturing proof where applicable, and any consultant charges.
- 2026 RCMC Exemption: Check the current APEDA rules to confirm whether consignments up to ₹3 lakh FOB qualify for an exemption before applying or paying.
Introduction
APEDA registration fees are ₹5,900 for the online RCMC application, including a ₹5,000 registration fee plus ₹900 GST at 18%, as listed in APEDA’s e-RCMC circular. The online renewal fee is also ₹5,900, while amendments after issuance carry no fee under the cited circular. The certificate is valid for 5 years, subject to applicable rules.
Applicants also need a valid Importer Exporter Code (IEC), and consultant fees are charged separately if professional assistance is required. Since 15 September 2026, shipments up to ₹3 lakh FOB are stated to be exempt from RCMC, subject to the applicable rules. Silvereye Certifications can review your requirements, explain the costs and assist with filing.
APEDA Registration Fees at a Glance
APEDA registers exporters dealing in its scheduled products and issues a Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC). The application is submitted through the DGFT e-RCMC portal, and applicants must have a valid Importer Exporter Code (IEC). The applicable registration fee is paid online through the portal’s payment gateway.
The following table summarises the APEDA registration fees and related costs.
| Item | Amount | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Online registration fee before GST | ₹5,000 | APEDA e-RCMC circular |
| GST at 18% | ₹900 | APEDA e-RCMC circular |
| Total APEDA registration fee | ₹5,900 | APEDA e-RCMC circular |
| Online renewal fee | ₹5,900, including GST | APEDA e-RCMC circular |
| Amendment or modification after issuance | No fee, as stated in the cited circular | APEDA e-RCMC circular |
| Certificate validity | 5 years, subject to applicable rules | APEDA e-RCMC circular |
| New IEC, if required | ₹500, one-time | DGFT portal fee |
How the ₹5,900 APEDA Registration Fee Is Calculated
The APEDA e-RCMC circular lists the online registration fee as ₹5,900, comprising a registration fee of ₹5,000 and 18% GST of ₹900. The total is calculated by adding the registration fee and applicable GST.
Payment is made through the DGFT portal’s payment gateway during the application process. Applicants should save the e-payment receipt and invoice for their records.
Does the Fee Change Based on Turnover or Business Type?
The cited APEDA circular lists a single registration fee and renewal fee rather than separate slabs based on turnover, MSME status or business type. However, applicants should confirm the current fee displayed on the official portal before making payment.
If a service provider quotes a different government fee, ask for the relevant official APEDA notification or circular before proceeding.
APEDA Registration Renewal Fee and Validity
According to the cited APEDA circular, the online renewal fee is ₹5,900, including GST, and the certificate validity is 5 years, subject to applicable rules.
DGFT’s e-RCMC guidance describes validity in terms of financial years. The precise validity period should be checked against the certificate issued to your business and the current official instructions.
Common Claims About APEDA Registration Fees
Different websites may publish conflicting information about APEDA registration fees. Compare such claims with the latest official documents before relying on them.
| Claim | What the Cited Circular States |
|---|---|
| Annual renewal fee of ₹5,000 | Lists a renewal fee of ₹5,900 and a five-year validity period. |
| Lifetime registration | States a validity period of 5 years, subject to applicable rules. |
| Registration fee of ₹5,999 | Lists ₹5,900. |
| Different fees for different entity types | Lists a single registration fee. |
If the official DGFT payment page displays a different amount, verify the latest APEDA fee schedule and applicable GST before confirming payment.
Total APEDA Registration Cost: What Else May You Pay?
The ₹5,900 APEDA registration fee does not necessarily cover every cost involved in obtaining an RCMC. Additional expenses may apply depending on your business and application requirements.
| Cost | When It Applies | Details |
|---|---|---|
| IEC fee | If you do not have a valid IEC | A new IEC application may involve a separate government fee. |
| Manufacturing proof | Manufacturers and manufacturer-cum-merchant exporters | Supporting documents may include relevant FSSAI, Udyam, horticulture or excise documents, depending on the product and applicable requirements. |
| Digital signature | If you choose to use a DSC | Cost depends on the certifying authority and certificate type. An accepted Aadhaar e-Sign option may be available. |
| APEDA RCMC fee | Applicants applying for registration | ₹5,900, according to the cited circular. |
| Consultant fee | If you hire professional assistance | Set by the service provider and separate from government charges unless expressly included in the quote. |
Example APEDA Registration Budgets
| Scenario | Estimated Government Cost | Other Possible Costs |
|---|---|---|
| You already have an IEC and apply yourself | ₹5,900 | Product-specific documentation, if applicable |
| You need a new IEC | ₹6,400, based on the stated IEC and RCMC fees | Product-specific documentation, if applicable |
| You hire a consultant | ₹5,900, plus an IEC fee if needed | Consultant’s professional fee and any other applicable expenses |
These examples use the fees stated above. Confirm the current official charges before budgeting.
APEDA Registration Consultant Fees: What to Check
APEDA does not prescribe a standard consultant fee for private service providers. Charges can vary depending on whether the provider only files the application or also reviews documents, assists with queries and provides post-registration support.
Before hiring a consultant, request a written quotation that clearly explains what is included. Confirm whether the ₹5,900 government fee is included or payable separately, whether GST applies to the professional fee, who prepares and files the documents, and whether responses to authority queries are covered.
You should also clarify the provider’s refund policy if an application is rejected and whether amendments or renewal reminders are included in the service.
What Is New for APEDA Registration Fees in 2026?
The APEDA registration fee is stated as ₹5,900, including GST, under the cited e-RCMC circular. However, exporters should also check whether an RCMC is required for their specific export activity before paying the fee.
The ₹3 Lakh RCMC Exemption
According to the information provided, DGFT Notification 36/2026-27, dated 15 September 2026, amended paragraph 2.57 of the Foreign Trade Policy 2023. It exempts export consignments with an FOB value of up to ₹3,00,000 from the RCMC or Certificate of Registration requirement, subject to the notification’s conditions.
The exemption is based on the value of each consignment rather than annual turnover. Export consignments above ₹3 lakh may still require an RCMC where applicable.
| Your Situation | Do You Need APEDA RCMC? | What to Check |
|---|---|---|
| Occasional consignments up to ₹3 lakh FOB | May qualify for exemption | Confirm the notification’s conditions and product coverage. |
| Regular exports above ₹3 lakh FOB | May be required | Check the applicable Foreign Trade Policy provisions. |
| Applying for an APEDA programme | Depends on programme requirements | Review the programme’s eligibility criteria. |
| Product-specific compliance, such as traceability | Check separately | The RCMC exemption does not automatically remove other compliance requirements. |
The key question in 2026 is not just how much APEDA registration costs, but whether your export activity requires an RCMC. Confirm your eligibility before making payment.
Bharat Krishi Niryat Yojana for 2026–2031
APEDA’s reported request for proposals dated 20 July 2026 concerns the appointment of a Project Management Unit for the Bharat Krishi Niryat Yojana for the 2026–27 to 2030–31 period. Businesses interested in participating should check APEDA’s latest notices for the programme’s eligibility criteria and final conditions.
APEDA Registration Fees vs Other Export Registrations
Exporters may need registrations from different export promotion councils or commodity boards, depending on their products. The fees, validity periods and renewal requirements can vary.
| Registration | Fee | Validity or Payment Basis | Important Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| APEDA RCMC | ₹5,900, including GST, as stated in the cited circular | 5 years, subject to applicable rules | Verify the latest APEDA fee schedule. |
| IEC (DGFT) | ₹500, as stated for a new application | Application fee | Required where applicable for export activities and RCMC applications. |
| Carpet Export Promotion Council RCMC | ₹7,080, including GST, as stated for 2026–27 | Annual, with a multi-year advance option as reported | Check the council’s official fee schedule. |
The Carpet Export Promotion Council is included only to illustrate that other councils may have different fee structures. If your products fall under another export promotion council or commodity board, check that organisation’s own registration requirements and charges.
Who Needs to Pay APEDA Registration Fees? Eligibility
Businesses exporting products covered by the APEDA Act and its scheduled products may apply for an APEDA Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC), subject to the applicable requirements and any relevant exemptions.
APEDA recognises different exporter categories, including merchant exporters, manufacturers and manufacturer-cum-merchant exporters. Applicants generally need a valid Importer Exporter Code (IEC) and must obtain the RCMC from the appropriate council or board for their main line of business, where required.
Products Covered by APEDA
APEDA’s scheduled products include:
| Product Category 1 | Product Category 2 | Product Category 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Fruits, vegetables and their products | Cocoa, chocolates and cocoa products | Floriculture and floriculture products |
| Meat and meat products | Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages | Herbal and medicinal plants |
| Poultry and poultry products | Cereal and cereal products | De-oiled rice bran |
| Dairy products | Groundnuts, peanuts and walnuts | Green pepper in brine |
| Confectionery, biscuits and bakery products | Pickles, papads and chutneys | Cashew nuts and their products |
| Honey, jaggery and sugar products | Guar gum | Basmati rice covered by the APEDA Act |
Products administered by other authorities may require registration with the relevant body. For example, exporters dealing in products covered by the Spices Board should check its separate RCMC requirements.
Documents Required Before You Pay
Prepare the required documents before starting your APEDA RCMC application. The exact checklist depends on your exporter category and product.
| Exporter Type | Documents to Prepare |
|---|---|
| Merchant exporter | Signed and sealed copy of the IEC issued by DGFT, as specified by APEDA. |
| Manufacturer or manufacturer-cum-merchant exporter | Signed and sealed copy of the IEC, along with the applicable manufacturing proof for the product. |
Manufacturing Proof by Product Group
The supporting documents accepted by APEDA may vary according to the product category.
| Product Group | Potential Supporting Document or Authority |
|---|---|
| Floriculture and seeds | Department of Horticulture documentation, where applicable |
| Fresh fruits and vegetables | Accepted FSSAI, Udyam, horticulture or MSME documentation, as applicable |
| Groundnuts, pulses and guar gum | Accepted FSSAI or Udyam documentation, where applicable |
| Processed fruits and vegetables, processed food, meat products and cereal preparations | Applicable FSSAI or Udyam documentation |
| Meat, dairy, poultry and honey | Applicable FSSAI documentation |
| Cereals and cereal products | Applicable FSSAI documentation |
| Alcoholic beverages | Relevant Excise Commissioner documentation |
Before uploading documents or paying the registration fee, verify the latest APEDA checklist for your product and exporter category. Requirements can differ, and not every document listed above will apply to every applicant.
APEDA Registration Process: Where the Fee Is Paid
The following steps outline the APEDA RCMC application process through the DGFT e-RCMC portal. The APEDA registration fee is paid online after the application details have been completed and reviewed.
- Confirm your IEC: Ensure you have a valid Importer Exporter Code (IEC) and that your DGFT profile is up to date.
- Log in to DGFT: Visit dgft.gov.in and navigate to Services → e-RCMC → Apply for e-RCMC.
- Select APEDA: Start a fresh application and choose APEDA as the registering authority.
- Enter application details: Review the fee information, select the applicable office and add your export product categories.
- Complete your profile: Add authorised representatives, export destinations, firm details and website information, where required.
- Upload documents: Submit the required signed and sealed documents in the prescribed format.
- Review and sign: Accept the declaration, check the application summary and complete the required digital signing process.
- Pay the registration fee: Pay the applicable amount through the portal’s payment gateway and save the e-payment receipt.
- Track your application: Check My Dashboard → Submitted Applications for updates and download your RCMC when it is issued.
Benefits: What You Get for the Fee
- Recognized exporter registration: The RCMC provides evidence of registration with APEDA for covered scheduled products.
- Support for applicable export requirements: An RCMC may be required where the Foreign Trade Policy or another applicable provision makes it necessary.
- Access to eligible APEDA programmes: Certain programmes may require applicants to hold a valid APEDA RCMC.
- Multi-year validity: The certificate may remain valid for five years, subject to applicable rules and the validity stated on the certificate.
- Online application: The DGFT e-RCMC portal allows applicants to submit applications and make payments electronically.
APEDA Registration Fee Timeline: When Do You Pay?
| Stage | Timing | Fee or Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Obtain or confirm IEC | Before applying, where required | ₹500 for a new IEC, subject to the current DGFT fee |
| Submit APEDA RCMC application | During the application process | ₹5,900, as stated in the cited APEDA circular |
| Application scrutiny and issuance | After submission | No additional government fee stated for routine scrutiny in the cited fee information |
| Amend certificate details | When an amendment is required | No fee, as stated in the cited APEDA circular |
| Renew RCMC | According to the applicable renewal requirements | ₹5,900, as stated in the cited APEDA circular |
Processing time depends on document completeness and the registering authority’s review. If an official turnaround time is not published, avoid treating third-party estimates as guaranteed timelines.
Keep a record of your certificate’s validity and set a reminder well before expiry so you have enough time to review renewal requirements.
Common APEDA Registration Fee Mistakes to Avoid
- Paying the wrong authority: APEDA registration does not replace registration with another export promotion council or commodity board where that authority is responsible for your products.
- Ignoring possible exemptions: Check whether your export activity qualifies for an RCMC exemption under the current Foreign Trade Policy before applying.
- Assuming an annual membership fee: Confirm the certificate’s validity and renewal requirements instead of assuming payment is due every year.
- Accepting an unclear consultant quotation: Ask for a written breakdown separating government fees from professional charges.
- Forgetting additional costs: IEC applications, document preparation and digital-signature services may involve separate costs.
- Failing to save payment records: Keep the e-payment receipt and invoice for your accounts and future reference.
How Silvereye Certifications Helps With APEDA Registration Fees and Filing
Silvereye Certifications assists businesses with APEDA registration requirements, document preparation and DGFT e-RCMC filing. Our support can include reviewing your IEC and supporting documents, checking whether an RCMC is required for your export activity, preparing the application and helping track it through the registration process.
We provide a written breakdown of our professional fees before work begins. The government registration fee is shown separately and should match the amount displayed on the official portal at the time of payment.
Conclusion
APEDA registration fees are straightforward according to the cited circular: ₹5,900 including GST for registration, the same amount for renewal, no fee for amendments, and five years of certificate validity, subject to applicable rules. Confusion often arises from conflicting information on third-party websites and additional costs that are separate from the government fee.
Before applying, check your IEC, product eligibility and any applicable RCMC exemption. Silvereye Certifications can help review your requirements, prepare the necessary documents and assist with filing through the DGFT e-RCMC portal.
Check Your APEDA Registration Fees with Silvereye Certifications
Silvereye Certifications assists manufacturers, importers, exporters and brand owners with APEDA RCMC registration, amendments and renewals. Share your product list and IEC details to receive a written quotation outlining the applicable requirements and professional fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the APEDA registration fees in 2026?
APEDA’s circular lists ₹5,900 for online registration: ₹5,000 plus ₹900 GST at 18%. Confirm the amount on the DGFT payment page before you pay.
What is the APEDA RCMC renewal fee?
APEDA’s circular lists the online renewal fee at ₹5,900, the same ₹5,000 plus ₹900 GST.
Is there an annual APEDA membership fee?
Some third-party sites mention one, but APEDA’s circular lists a 5-year validity and does not mention an annual membership fee. Follow the circular and check your DGFT payment page.
Does the APEDA fee depend on turnover?
Not according to the circular, which lists a single fee. Some Export Promotion Councils have turnover-based fees, but that is not how APEDA’s circular is written.
Is there any fee for amending my APEDA RCMC?
APEDA’s circular says amendment or modification after issue carries no fee.
How long is the APEDA RCMC valid?
APEDA’s circular says 5 years. DGFT’s help file describes five financial years from 1 April of the licensing year of issue to 31 March, unless otherwise specified. Read the date on your certificate.
Do I need an IEC before paying the APEDA fee?
Yes. The e-RCMC application is tied to your IEC. A new IEC has a ₹500 application fee on the DGFT portal.
Is GST included in ₹5,900?
Yes. ₹5,900 is ₹5,000 plus ₹900 GST at 18%.
How do I pay APEDA registration fees?
Online, through the payment gateway on the DGFT e-RCMC portal, near the end of the application. Save the e-payment receipt.
Do I have to pay if my shipments are under ₹3 lakh?
Under DGFT Notification 36/2026-27 of 15 September 2026, consignments up to ₹3 lakh FOB do not need an RCMC where the policy would otherwise require one. Above that value the requirement continues where applicable.
Is the APEDA fee refundable if my application is rejected?
APEDA’s circular does not state a refund policy. Ask before you pay, and check any consultant’s terms in writing.
How much do consultants charge for APEDA registration?
APEDA does not fix consultant fees. Advertised figures we saw ranged from roughly ₹2,999 to ₹15,000 with different scopes, so compare what each quote includes.
How long does APEDA registration take after payment?
Neither APEDA nor DGFT publishes an official turnaround time. Consultancies commonly report about 7 to 15 working days after a clean filing.
