If you are an NRI or OCI cardholder returning to India with jewellery, or intend to take jewellery out of India, it is necessary to obtain an Export Certificate from Indian Customs. This certificate formally records the jewellery items you are taking, so that you can escape customs charges or legal complications while re-entering India with the same jewellery.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Obtain Export Certificate:
Purchase Invoice:
- Always take an official bill or purchase invoice for purchase of jewellery from any jeweller. The invoice will act as a proof of ownership and value.
Government Registered Valuer's Certificate:
- If you decide to purchase jewellery, go to a Government Approved Registered Valuer after purchase.
- The valuer will inspect the jewellery, check for the number of carats, weight, and market value, and then provide a valuation certificate.
Customs Declaration at Airport:
- After you receive the valuation certificate, go to the Customs Office at the airport.
- Hand over the jewellery with purchase bill and certificate of the valuer to the customs officer.
- The customs officer will scrutinize the jewellery and might even photograph or detail records for records.
Issuance of Export Certificate:
- Following checks, an official Export Certificate detailing all items of jewellery would be issued by the Customs Department.
- This certificate serves as a document under law so that when you bring the same jewelry back to India, you need not pay duty again.
