Ad-Hoc Norms Fixation for Advance Authorisation: DGFT Process 2026

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Ad-hoc norms are needed when your export product has no notified SION.
• Apply online in Form ANF 4B to the DGFT Norms Committee under Para 4.07 of HBP.
• You can file ANF 4A for the authorisation while fixation is in progress.
• DGFT’s searchable database may let you skip fixation through a “No-Norm Repeat” application.
• Public Notice 07/2026-27 extends validity of certain ratified ad-hoc norms to 31.03.2028.

INTRODUCTION

Many manufacturers want to use Advance Authorisation but find that their export product has no Standard Input Output Norm (SION). Without a norm, DGFT cannot decide how much duty-free input is allowed.

This is where ad-hoc norms fixation helps. Done correctly, it protects you from wastage disputes and redemption problems later. Done carelessly, it delays your licence by months.

This guide explains the 2026 process in simple steps.

WHAT ARE AD-HOC NORMS?

Ad-hoc norms are applicant-specific input-output norms fixed by the Norms Committee (NC) in the office of DGFT. They apply to products that are not covered by SION.

The legal basis lies in Para 4.07 of the Handbook of Procedures (HBP) read with the Advance Authorisation provisions of FTP 2023. An ad-hoc norm is generally linked to one authorisation, unless it is later made available for repeat use (explained below).

WHEN DO YOU NEED THEM?

• Your export product is not listed in SION.
• Your product has a different specification, process or wastage from the SION entry.
• You want norms settled before applying for the actual authorisation.

LATEST UPDATE FOR 2026

DGFT issued Public Notice 07/2026-27 on 05 May 2026, amending Para 4.12(vi) of HBP 2023. Norms ratified by a Norms Committee on or after 01.04.2015 under Para 4.07 now remain valid up to 31.03.2028.

Norms ratified on or after 01.04.2023 are generally valid for three years from the date of ratification. The facility does not apply to items listed under Appendix 4P, or where the Norms Committee has expressly said the norm cannot be used by others.

Always check the current notice text before relying on a norm.

STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS

1. Check SION and the ad-hoc norms database first.
2. File Form ANF 4B online on the DGFT portal for fixation of ad-hoc norms.
3. Upload the technical documents and an undertaking to abide by the norms fixed.
4. The Norms Committee scrutinises the technical data and may seek clarification or a personal hearing.
5. File Form ANF 4A with the Regional Authority for the actual authorisation.
6. Quote the Norms Committee meeting date or file number in ANF 4A.

You may file ANF 4A once the norm is fixed or while fixation is still in progress.

DOCUMENTS TYPICALLY REQUIRED

Requirements depend on the product, but expect to prepare:

• Manufacturing process flow chart
• Item-wise input quantity and wastage claims with technical justification
• Product catalogue or technical literature
• Details of imported and indigenous inputs
• Undertaking to abide by the norms fixed

Consistent data across all papers matters more than volume.

FEATURED SNIPPET ANSWER

Ad-hoc norms fixation is the process of getting Input-Output Norms approved by the DGFT Norms Committee for an export product that has no SION. The exporter files Form ANF 4B online under Para 4.07 of HBP, supplies technical details, and then applies for Advance Authorisation in Form ANF 4A.

USE THE SEARCHABLE DATABASE FIRST

Under Trade Notice 15/2023-24, DGFT hosts a searchable database of ad-hoc norms. Go to Services > Advance Authorisation/DFIA > Ad-hoc norms on the DGFT website.

If a valid norm matches your item description and wastages, you may apply on a “No-Norm Repeat” basis. Norms Committee ratification is then not required, subject to other FTP and HBP provisions. This can save significant time.

COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID

• Claiming wastage without technical backing.
• Assuming an old norm is still valid without checking its ratification date.
• Mismatch between the ANF 4B data and the ANF 4A application.
• Ignoring Appendix 4P restrictions.
• Importing before the authorisation and norms position is clear.

BEST PRACTICES

• Search the database before filing a fresh ANF 4B.
• Keep process data and costing records ready for Norms Committee queries.
• Maintain consumption records from day one; they will be needed at redemption.
• Use a clear product description that matches your shipping bills.

FAQS

1. What is the difference between SION and ad-hoc norms?

SION is a notified norm for listed products. Ad-hoc norms are fixed by the Norms Committee for products without a SION.

2. Which form is used for ad-hoc norms fixation?

Form ANF 4B, submitted online to the Norms Committee.

3. Can I apply for the authorisation before the norm is fixed?

Yes. ANF 4A can be filed while fixation is in progress, quoting the file number.

4. How long are ad-hoc norms valid?

Norms ratified on or after 01.04.2023 are valid for three years from ratification. Certain norms ratified since 01.04.2015 remain valid up to 31.03.2028.

5. Can another exporter use an existing ad-hoc norm?

Often yes, through the searchable database and a “No-Norm Repeat” application, unless the Norms Committee has restricted it or the item is under Appendix 4P.

6. Is a personal hearing mandatory?

No. The Norms Committee may call for one if it needs clarification.

CONCLUSION

Ad-hoc norms fixation is a technical process, not just a form-filling exercise. Strong data, a checked database search and correct documentation make the difference between a smooth licence and repeated queries.

With the 2026 validity extension, many existing norms can be reused. Check first, file only if needed.

CTA

Need help with ad-hoc norms or Advance Authorisation? A V International has over 35 years of experience in DGFT and import-export compliance. Our team prepares ANF 4B and ANF 4A filings, checks norms availability and guides you through Norms Committee queries. Contact A V International for a practical, no-surprise consultation.

WRITTEN BY

Akash Bhangare

Having more than 10 years of experience in EPR Compliance, Legal Metrology, DGFT Regulations, and Import Export Consulting Services in India.

Associated with A V International, a company with over 35 years of expertise in Environmental Compliance, EPR Registrations, Licensing, and Regulatory Approvals.