End-to-end certification and regulatory compliance for Indian and global markets.

Get your products BIS certified to ensure compliance with Indian standards and build customer trust. We handle end-to-end certification, testing, and documentation for manufacturers,importers, and exporters.
Global Approvals help your products meet international regulatory standards, allowing smooth entry into multiple global markets.
Our expert guidance and end-to-end support help you achieve TEC certification smoothly while gaining a competitive edge in the market.
With 25+ years of experience, we help you meet ARAI compliance smoothly and gain a competitive edge in the automotive market.
Struggling to secure BEE Certification in India? Our specialists make the process easy and help you boost customer trust through verified energy ratings.
Flying without proper registration or clearance can lead to fines, drone seizure, and legal action, making regulatory compliance essential for safe and lawful drone operations.
Our expert guidance ensures your steel imports meet Ministry of Steel and BIS standards, helping you stay compliant and streamline the approval process.
How to apply for BIS Certification in 5 Mins!

Apart from product certification, BIS is responsible for framing Indian Standards, conducting laboratory testing, and ensuring consumer protection.

USEFUL LINKS
How to apply for ISI Certification in 5 Mins!

Some items must be certified before they get released mysteriously made for select goods like cables, switches, cement, gas cylinders, etc.

USEFUL LINKS
CRS Certification- A Complete Guide for Electronic Product Compliance in India

It ensures electronic products conform to Indian Standards (IS).Covers 70+ products including laptops, phones, adapters, TVs, and batteries.

USEFUL LINKS
Hallmarking Certification- Everything You Must Know About Gold and Silver Purity Compliance

Hallmarking Certification is mandatory in India for gold and silver jewellery.The BIS 916 Hallmark confirms 22K gold purity.Silver Hallmarking is compulsory for certain grades like BIS 925.

USEFUL LINKS
FMCS Mark Certification- A Guide for Global Brands Selling in India

FMCS Mark Certification is a BIS-led approval process that enables foreign manufacturers to sell regulated products in the Indian market.

USEFUL LINKS
ECO Mark Certification : Your Complete Guide to Global Eco-Labeling Standards

It helps manufacturers build trust and create a compliance framework. It also markets to eco-conscious consumers.This guide will detail eligibility, provide information on the application procedure, and outline benefits of certification to ISO 14024.

USEFUL LINKS
Finding Laboratory Accreditation Tough? We Make It Simple!

It is governed by NABL under the Quality Council of India (QCI).Accreditation enhances trust among regulators, industries, and global partners.

USEFUL LINKS
World Manufacturer Identity (WMI) Registration

The World Manufacturer Identity (WMI) is a globally recognized code used to identify vehicle manufacturers. WMI registration ensures traceability, compliance, and global brand recognition for automotive makers.

USEFUL LINKS
BIS Scheme X Certification - Process, Documentation and Fees Structure- Updated Guide 2025-2026

Stay ahead of regulatory changes with BIS Scheme X Certification. Now extended to September 1, 2026, under the omnibus technical regulation order 2024. Get complete certification support from Diligence Certification.

USEFUL LINKS
Get your CDSCO registration

Get full assistance for CDSCO registration, medical device import licenses, and cosmetic import licenses with Diligence Certifications. Our expert guidance and comprehensive support ensure your compliance, helping you gain a competitive edge in the market. Your satisfaction is our commitment!

USEFUL LINKS
Drug License

Diligence Certifications is a top-tier name in drug licensing and provides topmost service and knowledge support to all sizes of pharmaceutical companies. Our seasoned team understands the global regulations and has seen several success stories.

USEFUL LINKS
Give Your Products cosmetic license

Having trouble securing Cosmetic License certification in India? Let our ISI certification experts assist you in achieving it and boosting your credibility!

USEFUL LINKS
Give Your Medical device Registration

Get expert guidance on Medical Device Registration in India. Learn CDSCO approval process, documents, fees & compliance for manufacturers and importers.

USEFUL LINKS
Obtain Your CPCB Certification Effortlessly………

Secure your CPCB Certification with ease and align your business with environmental regulations and sustainable practices. Our expert team streamlines the application process, offering tailored guidance to meet your unique EPR compliance requirements.

USEFUL LINKS
Get battery waste Compliance Certification for Your Products

Need assistance in Battery Waste Certification? Our experts guide you through every step to ensure smooth and compliant processing.

USEFUL LINKS
EPR Registration for E-Waste Certification

E-waste has become one of the most serious problems of the modern world, as technology is changing very fast. Discarded electronics items such as smartphones and refrigerators contain very toxic elements hazardous to human health and the environment if not treated properly.

USEFUL LINKS
EPR for Tyre Waste – Tyre Waste Management Guide

Tyre wastage is an increasing global problem. It threatens to engulf the world in a sea of rubber with disastrous consequences for the environment and human health.

USEFUL LINKS
Get Plastic waste Compliance Certification for Your Products

Diligence Certifications help businesses go a long way in environmental compliance matters through their management of plastic waste compliance. It rallies your commitment to reducing environmental impacts, increasing your recycling, driving circular economies and, hence, building credibility with consumers as citizens of a wider world contending against plastic pollution with angels and regulators.

USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
Get Your LMPC Certification!

Get Full Assistance for Model Approval for Indian W&M Instruments and Importer Registration for Weight and Measurement Instruments with Diligence Certifications. We prioritize your success by providing expert guidance and comprehensive support for all your LMPC Certification needs, helping you gain a competitive edge in the market. Your satisfaction is our commitment, and we work tirelessly to ensure it, now and in the future.

USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
Get Your WPC Approval!

Get Full Assistance for Non-Network License, Network License, and Equipment Type Approval with Diligence Certifications. We prioritize your success by providing expert guidance and comprehensive support for all your WPC Approval needs, helping you gain a competitive edge in the market. Your satisfaction is our commitment, and we work tirelessly to ensure it, now and in the future.

USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS
USEFUL LINKS

End-to-end certification and regulatory compliance for Indian and global markets.

Register your business with ease and stay compliant with Indian regulations. We take care of end-to-end documentation, approvals, and legal formalities for startups, MSMEs, and enterprises.
USEFULL LINKS
USEFULL LINKS
USEFULL LINKS
USEFULL LINKS
USEFULL LINKS
USEFULL LINKS
USEFULL LINKS
USEFULL LINKS
USEFULL LINKS
USEFULL LINKS
USEFULL LINKS

SAFTA Certification Process – Steps, Benefits, and Eligibility for Exporters

  • The SAFTA certificate online enables reduced customs duties under the SAARC trade agreement.
  • Businesses can apply for a SAFTA certificate digitally through authorized agencies in India.
  • This document is vital for proving origin and unlocking tariff benefits.
  • SAFTA certificate processing time is usually 27 working days.
  • Diligence Certifications helps streamline the process with expert compliance support.

Years Of Experience
0 +
Expert Employees
0 +
Trusted Brands
0 +
Projects done
0 +

Introduction

If you’re an Indian exporter eyeing the SAARC market, you’ll need one document above all—your SAFTA certificate of origin. It’s what lets your goods cross borders under reduced or zero customs duty.

Today, you don’t need to stand in queues or navigate paperwork alone. You can get your SAFTA certificate online, and Diligence Certifications makes the process seamless.

Already exporting to Bangladesh or Sri Lanka? You’re missing out on major savings if you aren’t using the SAFTA route.

The SAFTA certificate (South Asian Free Trade Area certificate) is an essential trade document that enables exporters and importers to access the preferential tariff treatment available in accordance with section 2.1 of the SAFTA agreement. When businesses export and/or import goods with a valid SAFTA Certificate of Origin, it can offer major savings – or complete tax exemptions – on the customs duties when trading goods in the SAARC region. 

Whether you’re a startup, MSME or large business this certificate can provide the path for proceeding with cross-border trade in a much easier and cheaper way.

Safta Certificate

What is a SAFTA Certificate?

The SAFTA Certificate (which stands for South Asian Free Trade Area Certificate of Origin) is a document that provides evidence that goods exported from India to SAARC countries are eligible for preferential tariffs. 

An SAFTA certificate, also known as SAFTA certificate of origin, is a trade document needed by both the importer and exporter that certifies the country of origin of the products referenced in a commercial invoice, and is an essential document for trade among countries in the region of SAARC (South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation)

With an SAFTA certificate, businesses can use the internet to assess compliance with the applicable rules of origin preferential tariff as established by the provisions of the South Asian Free Trade Area agreement (SAFTA). 

An SAFTA certificate is issued by agencies authorized by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), such as Export Inspection Agencies (EIA) and Chambers of Commerce.

Key Facts:

  • Mandatory for exporters in India trading with SAARC nations
  • Valid for 12 months
  • Ensures goods meet rules of origin
  • Required per consignment

Why SAFTA Certificate Matters for Exporters?

1. Reduced or Zero Import Duties

Customs in SAARC nations honour this certificate to slash import tariffs—sometimes down to zero.

2. Boosts Pricing Competitiveness

Lower landed cost = Lower MRP. You gain an edge over non-SAFTA exporters.

3. No GST on Exports

Indian exports under SAFTA aren’t subject to GST—keeping cash flows cleaner.

4. Faster Customs Clearance

Border authorities are trained to recognise and prioritise SAFTA shipments.

5. Legally Valid Origin Proof

You avoid disputes or holds due to incorrect origin claims.

Benefits of SAFTA Certificate

A SAFTA certificate provides a lot of benefits to a business involved in cross-border trade in SAARC nations. The main benefits are:

  1. Lower or Zero Tariff

If you have a valid SAFTA Certification of Origin from the Exporter, you can use it to insert the relevant information into custom declarations, which allows the exporters to claim preferential tariff treatment under the SAFTA Agreement, meaning that there is significantly lower or even zero customs duty on eligible goods when exporting to other countries in a SAARC member country, which means products are more affordable in international markets.

  1. Improved Export Competitiveness

This improves global competitiveness for Indian exporters due to reduced import costs for the buyer. Owing to reduced import costs, Indian exporters can lower the price of their products, directly impacting competitiveness over non-SAFTA exporters.

  1. No GST on Exports

Exporters can likely enjoy the pragmatic indirect benefit of an SAFTA certification online because they do not charge GST on exports, essentially reducing tax cost and allowing the products to look cheaper to overseas buyers, which is a significant selling point.

  1. Indian Origin Proof

The SAFTA certification acts as legal proof that the goods originate from a SAARC member country, or in this case, India. This is essential in claiming duty exemptions and other trade benefits associated with goods of Indian origin.

  1. Avoids Delays and Disputes Over Shipments 

Having a valid SAFTA certification helps to smooth the customs clearance process for shipments and reduces the potential for claim delays or rejections. The SAFTA certification is a critical document to ensure duty-free export from one SAFTA country to another.

For exporters wishing to apply for SAFTA certification quickly, Diligence Certifications provides services for assisting with certification documentation, submission, and the tracking of SAFTA certification processing time to ensure quick SAFTA certification approval. 

Documents Required to Apply SAFTA Certificate Online

Missing even one document can delay approval. Here’s what you’ll need:

Required Document

Details

IEC Code

Issued by DGFT

Commercial Invoice

Invoice of the goods being exported

Purchase Order

From the foreign buyer

BRC

Bank Realisation Certificate

Exporter Declaration

Self-certification on origin

Packing List

Itemised details

Manufacturer Declaration

On company letterhead

Product Description

With HS Code

DSC

Digital Signature Certificate

DSC Software

To digitally sign application

How to Apply for a SAFTA Certificate?

At Diligence Certifications, we keep the process simple, reliable, and straightforward for you. Here’s how to receive your SAFTA certification of origin: 

Step 1:  Speak with our SAFTA compliance specialists

Before you start, you must understand the documents and process before you apply. Our compliance specialists at Diligence Certifications have worked through the process with many clients. We will answer all of your questions, so you have full confidence in moving forward with.  

Step 2: Compile the documents

Now that you understand the process, you are ready to gather all required documents to support your application. Supporting documents must be carefully gathered, as incorrect documentation can cause delays or outright rejection of approval. 

Step 3: Apply and pay the fees

After collecting the documents, the Diligence team will assist you with filling out your application and paying the government fees. The team will submit your application on time and will follow up with each step of the overall application process.

Step 4: Verification and Approval by Government Agencies

Your application and all attachments will then be sent to the appropriate department for approval to confirm details and documentation are correct. Once approved, your application will be approved. If there are discrepancies, we assist you in resubmitting or correcting any issues to avoid rejection.

Step 5: Issuance of SAFTA Certificate

Upon successful approval, a SAFTA certification is issued in the name of the applicant. You can now use this certificate to claim tariff concessions while exporting to SAARC member countries.

Diligence Certifications will ensure a compliant and smooth experience, guiding you through the process from initial consultation to SAFTA Certification Issuance and ultimately, saving you time, energy, and mistakes.

Are you ready to apply? Contact our SAFTA Experts for consultation and priority processing.

SAFTA Certificate Processing Time & Validity

  • Processing Time: 2–7 working days
  • Validity: 12 months from date of issue
  • Renewal: Required for each shipment or after expiry

The validity period of the SAFTA certificate is for 12 months from the date of original issuance. During the validity period, registered exporters are entitled to duty-free or reduced-duty access for goods eligible for duty concessions traded under the SAFTA Agreement. Upon expiration of the SAFTA certificate, registered exporters must reapply for the SAFTA certificate renewal to continue receiving tariff concessions on their exported goods from India to SAARC member countries. Applying for the SAFTA certificate upon expiration on time ensures continued

Why Choose Diligence Certifications?

At Diligence Certifications, we offer unparalleled expertise combined with extensive knowledge of the regulatory landscape to support your efforts to remain compliant, limit legal risk, and be more efficient with time and money. Our comprehensive support will allow you to expand confidently in a competitive and compliant environment.

  • Expertise & Regulatory Knowledge

Our experienced professionals have an in-depth understanding of the specificities involved with Indian and global compliance regulations to ensure that your products satisfy all relevant regulation thresholds.

  • All things Compliance, All in One Place

From BIS, ISO, CDSCO, SAFTA and beyond – we provide end-to-end certification and regulatory services of compliance-related products and connectivity services under one roof.

  • Monitoring Regulatory Change & Reporting Risks

We will be your proactive conduit, monitoring the potential future effects of updates to laws and policies, minimizing your chances of incurring fines and preventing product recalls.

  • Maximum Reach Throughout India

No matter where your business looks to operate, we are proud to say that our reach is throughout all of the major cities and industrial hubs across India.

  • Proven Results 

With over 10,000 certifications to our name, we have become a trusted compliance partner for startups, SMEs, and large enterprises.

  • Commitment to Client Service

Our team is here to support you and is ever-present in terms of communication as you make your application, oversee the compliance, and respond in the appropriate timeframe.

Diligence Certifications will ensure your compliance is a foregone conclusion. Let us make it easier for you to enter the market confident in the knowledge that you have a safe, high-quality ,regulated product in the market on time and without hassle.

Contact Our Experts

Fast-Track Your Compliance with Diligence! Chat with us

Our allied partners

Frequently Asked Questions

SAFTA Certificate (South Asian Free Trade Area Certificate) is an official document granting certification of goods that export from one SAARC country to another SAARC country. 

The SAFTA certificate is important for exporters as it is a certificate stating that the goods are of Indian origin, and that the goods are eligible to be included in the SAFTA certificate of origin scheme and that the duty for the goods is reduced or the customs duties are zero.

SAFTA Stand for South Asia Free Trade Area Certificate.

In order for the exporter to complete the SAFTA certificate online, he/she must first be registered with the DGFT, must also have provided the proper documents, and filled out the application online via the portal set up by the government. Diligence Certifications is able to help arrange the whole procedure.

The SAFTA certificate will generally be valid for a period of 12 months from the date of issue. It is imperative that exporters renew the SAFTA Certificate once expired so that they keep availing the trade benefits.

SAFTA covers the entire SAARC: India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The normal processing time for a SAFTA certificate is 2 to 7 working days, depending upon accuracy of your documents and government approval timelines.

A SAFTA certificate of origin can be issued by agencies authorized under the DGFT such as Export Inspection Agency (EIA) and Chambers of Commerce.

The required key documents include an IEC code, commercial invoice, packing list, Manufacturer Declaration and a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) amongst other documentation.

Yes, a new SAFTA certificate will be required for each shipment or consignment you intend on exporting under preferential terms.

Diligence Certifications can facilitate the documentation, eligibility check, submission and follow up to ensure the fastest and most accurate issuance of your SAFTA certificate online.

Speak to a Certified Compliance Consultant – Free

24 x 7 Support

Free Consultation

Trusted by 200+ Global Clients

100+ service team