Export House Certificate India | Eligibility & Benefits

Exports are one of the biggest drivers of India’s economic growth, contributing nearly 22% to the country’s GDP in recent years. To reward and motivate high-performing exporters, the Government of India launched the Export House Certificate, also known as the Status Holder Certificate.

This certificate is not just a piece of paper; it’s an official recognition of your contribution to India’s foreign trade. For sellers, it means smoother customs processes, lower compliance costs, and the credibility to stand out in global markets.

Think of it as a badge that says: your export business is reliable, consistent, and trusted. Let’s break down everything you need to know-eligibility, categories, benefits, documents, and how you can use tools like ShiprocketX to scale your business globally.

What is an Export House Certificate and Why is it Needed?

The Export House Certificate is granted by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) of the Government of India. 

Why Is It Needed?

This certificate is more than just a document. It acts as a growth enabler for businesses looking to scale globally. Here’s how it helps:

• Official Recognition: It confirms that your export performance is steady and meets government-defined standards.
• Faster Clearances: With this certificate, your shipments are processed quicker at customs checkpoints.
• Competitive Advantage: In international trade, buyers often prefer working with certified sellers who are seen as trustworthy and professional.

For example, imagine you are an MSME exporting readymade garments. Without the certificate, your shipment may go through multiple checks, slowing down the process. With the certificate, customs trusts your record and clears your shipments faster. That means lower costs, timely deliveries, and happier buyers.

What Are the Different Export House Status Holder Categories?

Exporters are classified into five categories based on their export performance, measured in terms of FOB/ FOR value in USD. These are:

• One Star Export House – USD 3 million
• Two Star Export House – USD 25 million
• Three Star Export House – USD 100 million
• Four Star Export House – USD 500 million
• Five Star Export House – USD 2000 million

For many sellers, reaching one-star export house status is the first milestone. It signals your entry into a recognised group of exporters. As your exports increase, you can climb the ladder and unlock more benefits.

Who Can Apply for an Export House Certificate?

The certificate is open to a wide range of exporters, including those exporting goods, services, or technology.

To apply, you need:

• A valid importer-exporter code (IEC)
• Proof of meeting the export performance thresholds mentioned in the FTP
• A record of consistent performance over the last three years (two years for gems and jewellery exports)
• Export earnings and freely convertible foreign currency, or in INR, as permitted by FTP.

Special Advantage: If you are an MSME, ISO-BIS certified unit, exported from J&K, Ladakh, North East, or an Agro Export Zone, you can get double weightage on exports while applying for One Star Status. This makes it easier for smaller sellers to enter the recognition system.

Why Should Exporters Apply for the Export House Certificate?

This certificate is much more than government recognition. It comes with real, practical benefits that can save you time, money, and effort.

Here’s why exporters should apply:

• Self-declaration for Customs: Faster clearances with fewer checks.
• Exemption from Bank Guarantees: Helps reduce financial strain.
• Priority in Approvals: Input-output norms are finalised within 60 days.
• Simplified Documentation: You don’t need compulsory bank negotiations.
• Priority Shipment Handling: Ports and airports process your consignments faster.
• Own Export Warehouses: Two Star and above can set up warehouses for exports.
• Accredited Clients Programme: Three-Star and above exporters get recognition under CBIC’s programme.
• Self-certification of Origin: For Three Star and above manufacturers.

The biggest advantage is credibility. With this certificate, global buyers are more confident to work with you, because you’re officially recognised as a reliable exporter.

What Documents Are Needed for an Export House Certificate Application?

To apply, exporters may need to provide:

• Certificate of Exports (for One Star with double weightage)
• Certificate of Foreign Exchange Earned (for service exporters)
• Certificate of FOR value for deemed exports
• Export details from SEZs/ EOUs linked to your IEC.
• Annexure to ANF 3C (application form).

Earlier, exporters had to gather and submit large amounts of paperwork manually. But with the latest system, most certificates are now auto-issued by DG based on your export data. That means less effort for faster results.

How Can ShiprocketX Shipping Services Boost Export Business?

Expanding into international markets can feel complex, but the right shipping partner can ease your journey. Here’s how ShiprocketX supports businesses in growing exports:

• Smart Courier Choice: ShiprocketX uses advanced tools to pick the best courier partner for every order. It checks speed, cost, and service quality so that your package always travels through the most suitable route.
• Easy Tracking: Every shipment can be tracked from the moment it leaves until it reaches the buyer. Both you and your customer can see where the package is, which builds trust and removes uncertainty.
• Customs Help and Correct Paperwork: A lot of export shipments face problems because of missing or incorrect documents. ShiprocketX takes care of compliance and ensures the right papers are in place so that your goods move smoothly through customs.
• Affordable Shipping Rates: Sending goods abroad can be expensive. With ShiprocketX, you can get competitive rates that reduce your logistics costs and help you stay profitable while reaching new markets.
• Marketplace and Store Connections: If you sell on platforms like Shopify or Amazon, ShiprocketX can directly connect with your store. This way, you can manage orders and shipments from one place without extra effort.

Together, these features make exporting much easier. Businesses can save time, cut costs, and provide their customers with a better experience. All of which leads to faster growth in international markets.

Conclusion

The Export House Certificate works like a stamp of trust for your business. It shows that your exports are consistent and reliable, which makes it easier to build strong relationships with global buyers. Along with faster clearances and fewer compliance hurdles, it gives you the confidence to compete in bigger markets. 

For many small and mid-sized businesses, this recognition can be the first step toward international growth. 

Pairing it with ShiprocketX ensures that your products also reach customers on time and at the right cost. Together, they create the perfect balance-official recognition from the government and hassle-free shipping support to help your exports grow steadily.