NFMIMS Registration in India - Fees, Process and Documents Required
Non-Ferrous Metal Import Monitoring System (NFMIMS) is a compulsory registration requirement for import of certain non-ferrous metal products in India, including those falling under Chapters 74 and 76 of the ITC (HS) classification. The System was introduced by DGFT through Notification No.61/2015-2020, dated 31st March 2021. The system mandates online registration before the import of consignments. Upon successful registration, a Unique Registration Number (URN) prefixed with “NFM” is allotted.
The application under NFMIMS must be made not earlier than 60 days and not later than 5 days prior to the expected date of arrival of the shipment in India. The registration is applicable for various shipments of the same commodity within the period of validity. Non-compliance with the requirements of NFMIMS will attract penal measures under the FTDR Act, 1992, including the amount of monetary penalty as provided in the Act.
With more than a decade of experience in the field of compliance, Professional Utilities helps importers in proper and on-time filing, as well as overall compliance, to ensure smooth import operations in India.
NFMIMS Registration Process
The CIMS Registration is a mandatory online procedure managed by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). Importers of notified copper products must complete this process before filing the Bill of Entry.
- Step 1: Registration on DGFT Portal: Login to the DGFT portal using the correct IEC number and the registered email ID and mobile number.
- Step 2: Online Application Submission: Open the NFMIMS portal and fill out the application form by providing information such as: HS Code, product description, country of origin, port of discharge, CIF value, and importer information.
- Step 3: Payment of Registration Fee: Proceed with the payment of the registration fee for the Non-Ferrous Metals Import Monitoring System, which is ₹500 per consignment.
- Step 4: Get Automatic Registration Number (ARN): After making the payment, an Automatic Registration Number (ARN) is generated, which is valid for 75 days from the date of registration. The ARN is required for customs clearance.
- Step 5: Complete the Customs Clearance Process: The Bill of Entry (BOE) number must be updated in the NFMIMS portal within 15 days of acquiring the ARN number. The customs department will not be able to process the clearance without a valid NFMIMS registration number.
Documents required for NFMIMS Registration
For successful registration under the NFMIMS, importers are required to submit the following details and supporting documents:
- IEC Number
- Commercial Invoice
- Bill of Lading
- Confirmation of Trade Agreement
- Trade Agreement Description (if applicable)
- Shipment & Import Information
- Purpose of Import
- Expected Date of Export
- Expected Date of Import
- Port of Entry in India
- Item Details (for each HS Code)
- IS Code as mentioned under QCO
- QCO Description
- Technical Specifications
- Special Item Properties (if any)
- End Use & Product Category
- Whether Similar Grade is Manufactured in India
- Reason for Import
- Quantity of Import
Fee for NFMIMS Registration in India
The fee for registering under the Non-Ferrous Metal Import Monitoring System (NFMIMS) is ₹500, as set by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). This fee applies to all importers of non-ferrous metals in India.
What is NFMIMS Registration?
Non-Ferrous Metal import monitoring system (NFMIMS) is a digital platform launched by the govt of India to track and regulate the import of non-ferrous metals into India. Importers must register their import-related information in an online database before shipping products to India. This information includes the name of the importer, the country of origin, the quantity of metal being imported, and the port of entry. NFMIMS is designed to help the Indian government track the import of non ferrous metal products and ensure that only high-grade metals are imported into the country. It is also designed to help the government protect the domestic industry from unfair competition from imported goods.
Eligibility For NFMIMS Registration
Importers dealing with copper and aluminum must obtain NFMIMS registration, as mandated by the ITC (HS) 2017 guidelines.
- Copper –Ch 74 of ITC (HS) 2017
- Aluminum - Ch 76 of ITC (HS) 2017
The Importance of NFMIMS Monitoring for Fair Trade and Industry Growth
The NFMIMS plays a crucial role in promoting fair trade and supporting the growth of the non-ferrous metal industry by ensuring transparency and data-driven decisions.
- Preventing Unfair Trade Practices: A key goal of NFMIMS is to combat unfair trade practices, such as dumping and under-invoicing, that could negatively impact the domestic metal industry. By maintaining a detailed record of imports, the government can quickly detect and address these issues, ensuring a fair market environment.
- Enabling Data-Driven Decision Making: NFMIMS provides policymakers with valuable data on non-ferrous metal imports. This data empowers the government to make well-informed decisions regarding tariffs, quotas, and other trade-related policies, fostering the long-term growth and stability of the sector.
Benefits of NFMIMS Registration
- NFMIMS Registration Benefits: NFMIMS registration brings numerous benefits, enhancing transparency, protecting the domestic industry, and empowering the government with data for smarter trade decisions.
- Transparency and Accountability: NFMIMS ensures greater transparency in the import process by holding importers accountable and minimizing the chances of malpractice. This results in a more efficient and trustworthy trade environment.
- Protection of Domestic Industry: By closely monitoring imports, NFMIMS helps protect the interests of the domestic metal industry. It ensures fair competition, promotes industry growth, and prevents unfair trade practices that could harm local businesses.
- Informed Decision-Making: The data collected through NFMIMS is invaluable for government authorities in making informed decisions regarding tariffs, trade policies, and quotas. This leads to smarter policies that benefit both the economy and the domestic industry.
Challenges and Future Prospects of NFMIMS
While NFMIMS has made significant strides in improving trade monitoring, it faces challenges that need to be addressed for better implementation and broader impact in the future.
- Technological Challenges: Despite its many advantages, the NFMIMS platform faces challenges related to system glitches and necessary updates. Ongoing improvements are required to streamline its operations and ensure smooth functionality.
- Expanding Coverage: There is potential for NFMIMS to be expanded to include other key industries, making it an even more effective tool for comprehensive trade monitoring across various sectors.
Simplify Your NFMIMS Registration with Professional Utilities
The registration for Non-Ferrous Metal Import Monitoring System (NFMIMS) is a mandatory compliance requirement for importers of Aluminium and copper products in India. This is required to ensure that the information submitted is accurate, submitted on time, and in the correct technical format to avoid any delay or dispute with customs.
With over a decade of experience in the practical handling of import compliance problems, Professional Utilities is here to provide you with complete support, from document review to application submissions and coordination with the concerned authorities. Besides non-ferrous metals, DGFT has also implemented monitoring systems for other important industrial materials such as steel through the Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS).
FAQ’s On Non-Ferrous Metal Import Monitoring System
What is NFMIMS registration?
NFMIMS commonly referred to as Non-Ferrous Metals Import Monitoring System is an online registration as introduced by the DGFT. It was introduced for keeping a record of imports of certain specified non-ferrous metals in India.
How to apply for an NFMIMS certificate?
To obtain the NFMIMS certificate, importers must file an online application on the DGFT portal by furnishing shipping information and submitting the necessary documentation along with the necessary fee. Once the application is processed successfully, the certificate is generated electronically.
What is the registration fee for NFMIMS?
Govt. fee for registering under the Non-Ferrous Metal Import Monitoring System (NFMIMS) is ₹500. Contact Professional Utilities to simplify Your NFMIMS registration process.
What is the validity of Nfmims certificate?
The validity of an NFMIMS certificate is generally limited, typically up to 75 days from the date of issuance. Importers must ensure that the import is completed within this validity period.
How to generate an NFMIMS certificate?
The procedure for obtaining the NFMIMS certificate involves applying through the DGFT portal, providing shipment and product information, submitting the required documentation, and paying the fees. Once approved, the NFMIMS certificate is issued online.
Is NFMIMS not required for air shipment?
Yes, NFMIMS certificate is required irrespective of the mode of transport. Importers must obtain the NFMIMS certificate before importing notified products into India.
What is the list of NFMIMS ?
NFMIMS list includes non-ferrous metal products like aluminum, copper, zinc, lead, tin, and others specified items as notified under the relevant HS codes by DGFT. It is important for importers to verify the updated list of products.
What are the top 10 non-ferrous metals?
Top 10 and most commonly used non-ferrous metals are : aluminium, copper, zinc, lead, tin, nickel, titanium, magnesium, brass, and bronze.