GST services for importers.
Importers pay IGST at customs and claim it back as credit, getting the documentation right is what unlocks that cash.
About GST for importers
When you import goods into India you pay IGST at customs alongside basic customs duty. That IGST is creditable: you can claim it as input tax credit against your output GST, provided your registration and Bill of Entry details line up.
The IGST rate equals the GST rate the goods would attract domestically. Mistakes in HSN classification or mismatches between your Bill of Entry and GST returns are the usual reasons credit gets stuck.
GST at a glance
- IGST paid at customs on imports
- IGST is creditable as ITC
- Basic customs duty is a cost (not creditable)
- Bill of Entry must match GST returns
GST requirements for importers
- GST registration (with valid GSTIN on Bills of Entry)
- Import Export Code (IEC)
- Correct HSN classification at customs
- IGST credit reconciliation via GSTR-2B / ICEGATE
- GSTR-1, GSTR-3B and annual return
- Customs documentation retention
Our GST services for importers
Common GST challenges
How we get you compliant
Consultation
A free call to understand your business and obligations.
Documents
We collect KYC and business proofs, fully online.
Registration
We obtain or update your GSTIN with the department.
Return filing
Monthly or quarterly returns prepared and filed.
Compliance
Ongoing tracking so you never miss a date.
Documents typically required
GST rates for importers
| Supply / scenario | GST |
|---|---|
| IGST on imported goods | = domestic GST rate |
| Basic customs duty | as per tariff (a cost) |
| Imported services (RCM) | 18% typical |
| IGST credit | fully creditable |
| Compensation cess | on notified goods |
Indicative rates, GST law and notifications change over time. Confirm your exact rate with an Expert before invoicing.
Importers GST questions
Do importers need GST registration?
Yes. You need a valid GSTIN, and it must appear correctly on your Bills of Entry for the IGST you pay at customs to be claimable as credit. You also need an Import Export Code (IEC).
Can I claim the IGST paid at customs?
Yes, IGST paid on imports is fully creditable as input tax credit against your output GST. Basic customs duty, however, is a cost and is not creditable.
How is the IGST rate on imports decided?
It equals the GST rate the same goods would attract if supplied domestically, applied on the customs (assessable) value plus basic customs duty.
What is RCM on imported services?
If you import services, you must pay GST under the reverse charge mechanism and can then claim it as credit. We track and file this for you.
Why is my import IGST credit not showing?
Usually a GSTIN or Bill of Entry mismatch with ICEGATE/GSTR-2B. We reconcile customs data with your returns to recover stuck credit.
Do I need to file special returns as an importer?
No separate import return, imports flow through your regular GSTR-3B (credit) and reconciliation. We manage the full cycle.
Unlock your import credit.
We align your customs and GST records so every rupee of IGST credit reaches you.