Step 1 — Check Eligibility for MEIS
You are eligible if:
- Goods exported fall under notified HS codes in MEIS schedule
- Export was made through EDI shipping bills indicating “MEIS Yes”
- Exports were made between 1 April 2015 and 31 December 2020
- e-BRC (Bank Realisation Certificate) is available and updated in DGFT system
MEIS is not available for:
- SEZ units exporting through SEZ Shipping Bills (EODC only, not MEIS)
- Foreign trade carried out without MEIS declaration in shipping bill
- Non-notified HS codes
Step 2 — Verify Shipping Bill Details
Before applying, verify that:
- “Reward Scheme – Yes” is selected
- Correct HS Code is mentioned
- Port code and date are accurate
- EDI data is flowing into DGFT server
- Let Export Order (LEO) is available
If any error exists, you must rectify it via Customs before filing the MEIS claim.
Step 3 — Ensure e-BRC (Bank Realisation Certificate) is Uploaded
- Log in on DGFT portal → eBRC status check
- Verify bank BRC uploading
- Ensure the value in e-BRC matches shipping bill value (within tolerance limits)
Without e-BRC, the MEIS claim cannot be processed.
Step 4 — Collect Required Documents for MEIS Filing
- IEC Copy
- Shipping Bills (EDI only)
- e-BRC copies
- Export invoice & packing list
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
- RCMC (Registration Cum Membership Certificate)
- CA-certified export turnover statement, if required
- Any supporting documents requested earlier by DGFT
Step 5 — Register on DGFT Portal
- Visit: https://dgft.gov.in
- Create a new user ID or log in
- Link IEC
- Add DSC
- Update profile
You can now file MEIS claims under the “Services → MEIS” section.
Step 6 — File Online MEIS Application (ANF 3A)
- Go to Services → MEIS → Apply for MEIS
- Select financial year
- Choose port of export
- System auto-picks eligible shipping bills
- Verify values and select bills for claim
- Upload documents
- Pay DGFT fee online
- Submit application
You will receive an MEIS File Number for tracking.
Step 7 — Respond to DGFT Queries & Deficiency Letters
DGFT may raise:
- Discrepancies in shipping bills
- Mismatch between e-BRC and shipping bill
- HS Code clarification
- Missing documents
- Incorrect port selection
Respond through portal:
DGFT → MEIS → View Deficiency → Upload Reply + Documents
Processing will resume after compliance.
Step 8 — DGFT Approves Application & Issues MEIS Scrip
Once approved:
- You receive MEIS duty credit scrip electronically
- Scrip appears under “My Scrips”
- You can transfer, utilize, or sell the scrip
Earlier, physical scrips were issued; now everything is digital.
Step 9 — Use MEIS Scrip for Duty Payment
MEIS scrip can be used to pay:
- Basic Customs Duty
- Additional Customs Duty
- Anti-dumping duty (for eligible goods)
Scrips are transferable and tradable.
Documents Required for MEIS Claim Filing
- IEC & Profile details
- Export invoices
- Packing lists
- Shipping bills (EDI)
- e-BRC
- CA certificate of net foreign exchange
- Technical specifications for notified HS codes (if required)
- Any deficiency letter response
Timelines
| Activity | Typical Time |
|---|---|
| DGFT processing after submission | 15–60 days |
| Deficiency letter resolution | Depends on exporter |
| Issuance of MEIS scrip | 1–7 days after approval |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not selecting “MEIS Yes” in shipping bill
- Mismatch between invoice value and e-BRC value
- Not linking IEC with DGFT profile
- Using wrong HS code
- Late filing (after closure of scheme window)
- Missing RCMC
- Ignoring deficiency letters
Benefits of MEIS Scheme
- Duty credit scrips boost export margins
- Scrips are transferable
- Simple online application process
- Supports exporters with diversified markets
Saving Mantra — MEIS Assistance (CTA)
We assist exporters with:
- MEIS eligibility and assessment
- Filing ANF 3A application
- Rectifying shipping bill errors
- Responding to DGFT deficiency letters
- Tracking status & resolving technical issues
- Scrip issuance and utilization support
CTA for WordPress:<a href="/contact">Get MEIS Filing Assistance — Talk to Saving Mantra Experts</a>
FAQ
Q: Is MEIS still available today?
A: Not for new exports. MEIS ended on 31 Dec 2020, but old claims can still be filed if DGFT extends deadlines via notifications.
Q: Can MEIS scrip be transferred?
A: Yes, MEIS scrips are fully transferable.
Q: What happens if a shipping bill does not show in DGFT portal?
A: You must correct EDI data at Customs or raise a grievance.
Excerpt (WordPress Summary)
A complete step-by-step guide to MEIS filing. Learn eligibility, documents, DGFT application process, deficiency letter handling, and how MEIS scrips are issued and used.
Disclaimer (Add to end of post or footer)
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, or professional advice. MEIS regulations, DGFT procedures, and government notifications are subject to change. Exporters should verify the latest DGFT guidelines or consult a qualified consultant before filing MEIS claims. Saving Mantra is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or interpretations of the information provided.