Health Certificate for Export: Rules, Process & Who Needs It

If you run a small or growing food or agricultural business, expanding globally can feel challenging. One key document, the health certificate for export, can make all the difference. In 2023, the world food export market was valued at over $2 trillion, offering huge opportunities in the international markets. However, without this certificate, your shipments can be delayed, rejected, or even destroyed, leading to lost revenue, wasted inventory, and unhappy buyers. For smaller businesses, certification is more than just a regulatory requirement; it shows that your products are safe, reliable, and trustworthy to international customers. 

In this blog, let’s’ understand everything you need to know about obtaining a health certificate for export.

What Is a Health Certificate for Export?

A health certificate for export is an official government-issued document that certifies that your products meet both Indian and international safety standards.

In India, the Export Inspection Council (EIC) usually issues this certificate. Your products are tested and the certificate is granted only if they pass all checks.

This certificate assures importing countries that your shipment:

• Has completed all the necessary food safety and hygiene checks. 
• Adheres to the legal requirements of India and the importing country.
• Is safe for human consumption.
• Has traceable information on sourcing, packaging, and labelling.

Example: If you’re a peanut exporter from Gujarat and shipping to Europe, the EU customs will not clear your shipment without this certificate. 

Do All Businesses Need a Health Certificate for Export?

This certificate is not necessary for all exporters. It is only mandatory for specific categories of goods and markets. 

You will need this certificate in case you:

• Export seafood, aquatic products, or animal casings to the EU, USA, China, Malaysia, or Russia.
• Export peanut products to the EU or Malaysia.
• Export to markets that require non-GMO certification.
• Export dairy, meat, or packaged food to areas with strict regulations.
• Participate in special certification schemes that require additional evidence.

Example:  

• A seller in Visakhapatnam exporting frozen prawns to the US must have a health certificate.
• This approval is also needed by a seller in Surat who exports packaged peanuts to Europe.

Consequences of skipping this certificate:

If you do not obtain the required certificate, your goods may be seized. Repeated violations can, in some cases, result in a ban on exporting to that country.

Who Provides the Required Certification for Exported Goods?

In India, the Export Inspection Council (EIC), along with its branch offices, the Export Inspection Agencies (EIAs), is responsible for providing certifications for exported goods. Both operate under the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to ensure that Indian products meet international quality and safety standards.

Key functions of EIC and EIAs:

1. Inspection and Sampling: Examine export goods and collect samples for testing.
2. Testing in Accredited Labs: Test products in government-approved laboratories to verify compliance with required standards.
3. Ensuring Compliance: Make sure products meet the quality, safety, and regulatory requirements of importing countries.
4. Issuing Certification: Provide certificates in internationally recognised formats, usually in English, and sometimes in other languages.
5. Supporting Exporters: Offer guidance, training, and programmes to help exporters meet global quality standards and install confidence in foreign buyers.

What Is the Process to Obtain a Health Certificate for Export?

The process is simple but needs to be prepared thoroughly. The following is a step-by-step process:

• Application

Complete your application online via the EIC website or go to your regional EIA office.

• Document Submission

Add supporting documents like invoices, laboratory test reports, and purchase orders.

• Fee Payment

Make the application fee by bank draft, online payment, or other means accepted by EIC/EIA.

• Inspection and Testing

EIC/EIA inspectors will inspect your unit or take samples to be tested.

• Review

If your application is in good order, it will be passed for issuance. In case of problems, you may be required to re-test.

• Issuance

Once cleared, the certificate is released- usually in a few working days.

Example: A snack exporter in Indore may have their batch tested for aflatoxins, pesticides, or other impurities. Products previously rejected overseas may undergo more frequent testing for future shipments.

What Documents Are Needed for a Health Certificate for Export?

In order to avoid delays, prepare the following documents:

• Completed application form.
• Copies of invoices and purchase orders.
• Letter of Credit (if applicable).
• Proof of fee payment (bank draft/receipt).
• EIC-approved lab test reports.
• Importer’s contract specifying product details.

Most common mistakes causing delays in certification:

• Missing or expired lab reports.
• Incomplete contracts.
• Not adhering to the importing country’s labelling requirements.

How Does ShiprocketX Simplify International eCommerce Deliveries?

Exporting is not just selling your goods. It also involves paperwork, compliance, and ensuring smooth delivery. This is where ShiprocketX helps: 

• Pre-check compliance records using Shiprocket’s free tools.
• Get support for health certificate applications through trusted partners.
• Automate customs documentation, including uploading, tracking, and digital signatures.
• Track cross-border shipments in real time.

Case study examples:

• Swabhimann, a North Indian jewellery brand, used ShiprocketX to cut international shipping costs and expand abroad successfully.
• La Fabrila, a North Indian men’s clothing brand, used ShiprocketX and Fulfillment to cut RTO by 10% and grow orders by 40% in a single quarter.

The takeaway is that with the right partner, you can ensure compliance, speed up delivery, and boost customer confidence, while turning export challenges into growth opportunities.

Conclusion

A health certificate isn’t required for every export, but it is crucial when entering global markets, as it assures overseas buyers and authorities that your products are safe and reliable.

By following the process and partnering with tools like ShiprocketX, you can simplify compliance and documentation, removing the stress from exporting. The real benefit is that with these systems in place, you can confidently expand globally, build trust with international customers, and turn every shipment into an opportunity for growth.

Start your hassle-free export journey today with ShiprocketX and take your business global.