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Step-by-Step Process for Import from Switzerland

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Financial Analyst

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Introduction

Switzerland is a global leader in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, precision machinery, chemicals, and luxury goods. Importing Swiss products into India requires strict documentation, regulatory checks, and adherence to Indian customs procedures.

This Saving Mantra guide explains the entire step-by-step import process, helping businesses manage compliance and reduce import risks.

Step-by-Step Process to Import from Switzerland

Step 1 — Identify the Product & Determine the HS Code

Start by classifying the product under the correct HS code.
This will determine:

  • Basic Customs Duty (BCD)
  • IGST rate
  • Eligibility for any exemptions
  • Whether BIS, CDSCO, FSSAI, or other regulators are involved

Tip: Incorrect HS coding can cause delays, higher duty, or compliance penalties.

Step 2 — Check India’s Import Regulations

For each product category, check:

  • DGFT import policy (free / restricted / prohibited)
  • Product-specific certifications such as:
    • BIS for electronics & equipment
    • CDSCO for medical devices
    • FSSAI for food or supplements
    • Chemical import restrictions
  • Environmental or safety norms

Switzerland is known for high-tech and regulated products — compliance is critical.

Step 3 — Obtain Importer Registrations

Before importing, ensure:

  • IEC (Importer Exporter Code)
  • GST Registration
  • AD Code Registration at the port
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

These are mandatory for customs filings in India.

Step 4 — Finalize Purchase Contract & Incoterms

Your agreement with the Swiss supplier must clearly define:

  • Incoterms (EXW, FCA, CIF, CIP, DAP, DDP)
  • Delivery schedule
  • Payment terms (TT advance, Letter of Credit, CAD)
  • Insurance coverage responsibilities
  • Warranty & product conformity requirements

CIF or CIP is commonly used for Swiss shipments due to product sensitivity and value.

Step 5 — Arrange International Logistics

For Air Freight

Best for:

  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Medical devices
  • Precision machinery
  • Luxury goods

For Sea Freight

Used for:

  • Bulk machinery
  • Industrial equipment

You will receive:

  • Air Waybill (AWB) or
  • Bill of Lading (B/L)

and the supplier will provide:

  • Commercial Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Certificate of Origin
  • Insurance Certificate (if CIF/CIP)

Step 6 — Swiss Export Documentation

Your supplier from Switzerland must submit:

  • Commercial Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Certificate of Origin (COO)
  • B/L or AWB
  • CE Declaration / Conformity Certificate
  • Insurance Certificate
  • Test Reports (if required)

Swiss exporters typically maintain very strict quality documentation, ensuring smooth verification at Indian ports.

Step 7 — Customs Clearance in India

When goods arrive at an Indian airport or seaport, follow the steps below:

a) Bill of Entry Filing

Customs broker uploads:

  • Invoice
  • Packing List
  • COO
  • HS code details
  • Regulatory certificates

b) Duty Assessment

Duties generally include:

  • Basic Customs Duty
  • Social Welfare Surcharge
  • IGST
  • Anti-dumping or safeguard duties (only if applicable)

c) Examination & Verification

Customs may inspect goods, especially high-value items.

d) Out-of-Charge (OOC)

After duties are paid, goods are officially released for domestic use.

Step 8 — Post-Clearance Compliance

After receiving the goods:

  • Maintain records for minimum 5 years
  • Update GST Input Credit
  • Ensure installation certificates for machinery (if required)
  • Ensure CDSCO/BIS/FSSAI post-market compliance for regulated products
  • Maintain warranty & service documentation

Document Checklist (Copy-Paste Ready)

Swiss Supplier Documents

  • Commercial Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Certificate of Origin
  • B/L or AWB
  • Insurance Certificate
  • CE/Conformity Certification
  • Test Reports (if applicable)

Indian Import Documents

  • IEC
  • GST Registration
  • AD Code Registration
  • Bill of Entry
  • Regulatory Licenses (BIS, CDSCO, FSSAI)
  • Duty Payment Receipt

Saving Mantra Tips for Smooth Import

  • Switzerland exports highly regulated products — start compliance checks early.
  • Prefer air freight for sensitive goods.
  • Use CIF or CIP Incoterms for better insurance coverage initially.
  • Verify importer name on LC or TT instructions to avoid delays.
  • Keep all digital copies of documents for GST and customs audit.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only. Import regulations, customs procedures, product compliances, and duty structures may change without notice. Businesses should verify current rules with DGFT, Indian Customs, logistics partners, and regulatory bodies before proceeding. Saving Mantra is not responsible for actions taken based on this content.

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