RCMC Certificate Application through Online Portal

The RCMC certificate plays a crucial role for businesses that are associated with goods and services provided internationally. The Registration-cum-Membership certificate is the only primary document that allows exporters to claim government schemes and benefits. In recent times, the Indian exporters have earned good respect and a place in the international trade sector. After getting the membership, the body starts promoting its specific business line. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how you can get RCMC approval through the online portal, including the focus online portal operated by the DGFT. 

Understanding the RCMC Certificate and Its Importance

Before exploring the use of form ANF-2C and its application, let’s first take a look at the RCMC license requirement and its fundamental role. In simple terms, the export registration certificate is nothing but a golden ticket to participate in export promotion schemes. It creates a positive image of exporters by demonstrating that they adhere to specific rules and regulations. The RCMC approval helps to get the EPC membership certificate. However, without the license, the exporters are restricted from claiming the benefits, such as RoDTEP, EPCG, and MEIS. 

Unlock the Key Advantages with the RCMC License

1. Access to Schemes: Holding the IEC number with the RCMC certificate is a prerequisite for access to and claiming the multiple government-established schemes and subsidies.
2. Credibility: Boost the exporter’s brand credibility in the international market and help to make connections with buyers. 
3. Market Support: With the certificate approval, the businesses can easily become part of international trade fairs, which are the best source to boost the intensity of goods and services. 
4. Trade Facilitation: It makes a smooth and accessible route for customs clearance and other regulatory processes. 

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry established the DGFT authority. The Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is the primary authority that oversees the complete operation of foreign trade. This department further established the various export promotion councils and commodity boards that work on specific goods or services. 

What are the Prerequisites for Online RCMC Application?

Must ensure the following requirements are met before navigating the RCMC application process:

1. RCMC Registration Consultant: The major regulatory requirements and their new updates might look challenging for the exporters. To understand them, you need to go through from the start. In this situation, the exporter can seek help from a legal consultant. The expert helps businesses navigate the RCMC registration process. LegalRaasta can become your legal consultant throughout the journey. 
2. Import Export Code (IEC) Number: The IEC code is the primary document that is necessary for small- to medium- to big-sized businesses that deal with exporting and importing. It is the essential 10-digit code issued by the DGFT. It means that, exporter can only get the RCMC approval after applying for an IEC number. Get the import-export code from the DGFT website. 
3. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): As the process of registration went online, document security and personal information are important. Get the Class 2 or Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate. It is compulsory to sign documents digitally during registration. DSC is important for security and authenticity.
4. Identify Your Export Promotion Council (EPC): Not a single one, but multiple export promotion councils are. This step is crucial, as exporters need to register with the right EPC or commodity board according to their business line. For example. 

• If an exporter is involved in the international trade of agricultural products, they must register with APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority).
• The software or IT service exporter is required to register with the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC).
• In case the exporter is dealing with multiple products, it must be registered with the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) as a general option.

Note: Select the appropriate council to prevent delays and complications during the application process.

Step-by-Step Online RCMC Application Process

This is the stage where you will learn how you can access the fully digitalized RCMC registration process. DGFT’s official single window made the process contactless, electronic, and more efficient. 

Step 1: Log in to the DGFT Portal

Visit DGFT’s official website (dgft.gov.in).

To link the username with the password, use the existing IEC number. Register on the online website as a new applicant.

Step 2: Navigate to the e-RCMC Section

After logging on to the page, select the option ‘e-RCMC’ from the ‘Service’ menu and proceed to the next step. 

Step 3: Complete the RCMC Registration Form (ANF 2C).

After visiting the portal, the website will display the RCMC registration form, also known as ANF 2C. You need to fill it out accurately. The details needed to be provided are:

• Choose the relevant export promotion council (EPC) and membership type.
• Determine the main line of the business, product, and service details. 
• It is required to provide details about the authorized representative for the council.

Step 4: Document Submission

For a successful RCMC approval, the accurate preparation of documents is critical. The specific document for the RCMC license required:

• • The copy of the IEC number certificate
  • Copy of the company’s PAN card

• GST registration certificate

• The other specific documents are the MoA, AoA, GST certificate, declaration of foreign exchange, and many more
• Certificate from the bank to confirm financial records
• Records of exports and imports from the previous financial year

Step 5: Declaration and Payment

Review the details and accept the declaration. Complete the payment for the mandatory RCMC signup fees online. 

Note: The registration fee depends on the relevant EPC and membership period.

Step 6: Signing and Final Submission

To sign the application, use DSC or Aadhaar-based e-sign. Both are legally accepted.

RCMC Application Time Period and Post-Submission Process

The registration timeline for the RCMC license takes 7 to 10 working days. After that, the authority issues the certificate. On the other hand, to know the stage of the application process, you can track the status online on the DGFT portal. Upon successful verification and approval, the certificate will be issued electronically. 

The RCMC certificate is only valid for five years. Before the license expiration, seek renewal to sustain the export advantages.

Final Discussion | The Online Process for RCMC Certificate

Basically, the online RCMC certificate application has facilitated the registration process to be more accessible to new exporters. Navigating the requirements for the RCMC certificate has become easier now. With online registration and understanding document requirements, the exporters can obtain this significant license. In the competitive market, businesses can stand out strongly with an export registration certificate. Minimize the registration online challenges with LegalRaasta professionals. Get an EPC membership certificate in a short period. 

Still have questions? Browse our FAQs or contact support

1. How do I find the application status of the RCMC certificate?

Ans. To see the application online, go to the DGFT portal. Go to the e-RCMC section to see the application status.

2. How to download the DGFT certificate?

Ans. To download the certificate, follow these steps:

Visit the website < go service menu < select IEC profile management < click on print IEC < enter CAPTCHA < provide specific details < click on ‘print.’ 

3. How can I get the APEDA RCMC certificate?

Ans. To acquire the certificate, please visit the official website of APEDA and register as a member. Seek the help of a consultant for smooth registration.

4. Which license is mandatory for export?

Ans. To manage the exportation of goods from India, the exporter must hold a valid import-export code (IEC). It is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

5. What are the consequences of non-compliance with the RCMC license?

Ans. Non-compliance can raise serious challenges. It can lead to cancellation of the certificate, even more, the restriction from export benefits, legal penalty, and a block by DGFT.