Imports & ExportsStart exporting

Step 06 / 07

Pay the supplier through your AD bank

Import payments go through an Authorised Dealer bank under RBI’s 2026 regulations. The bank tracks every bill of entry until it is paid.

  1. 1Get your IEC (and GST registration)
  2. 2Register on ICEGATE
  3. 3Check the import policy and duty for your HS code
  4. 4Get the product licences before you order
  5. 5Check the supplier and sign a clear contract
  6. 6Pay the supplier through your AD bank
  7. 7Clear the goods: bill of entry to out of charge

From 1 October 2026 the Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2026 apply. Your AD bank decides most matters under its own published policy, document list and charges. Ask your bank for its import-payment form and checklist.

Advance payments are allowed if the bank is satisfied the deal is genuine; above its threshold it may ask for a standby letter of credit or bank guarantee from the supplier. Keep the advance small with a new supplier, or use a letter of credit for larger orders.

Pay within the period in your contract. Each bill of entry appears in RBI’s IDPMS, and the bank closes it once you submit proof of payment. Route the advance and later payments for one import through the same bank.

Sources (1)
  1. RBI — FEM (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2026, amended up to 22 Sep 2026