Other

Original engravings, prints and lithographs (other)

DGFT CLEARANCE

HSN 9702 90 00 (Other original engravings, prints and lithographs) carries a Free import policy under the ITC (HS) schedule administered by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). While no licence or permit is required at the Indian bill of entry, the importer must comply with the export laws and rules of the country of origin governing the outward movement of such works.

What this is

HSN code

9702 90 00

Chapter

97 · Works of art, collectors' pieces and antiques

Primary regulator

DGFT · ITC (HS) Free import policy, Chapter 97

Customs documentation

Export-compliance declaration from exporter
ITC (HS) policy compliance from DGFT

Compliance steps

1
Verify that the exporting country's laws and rules permit the outward movement of the specific engraving, print or lithograph being imported. Obtain written confirmation or an export licence from the country of origin where its domestic regime requires one before shipping.
ITC (HS) Import Policy, Chapter 97 — Free policy condition requiring compliance with origin-country export laws
2
File the bill of entry with a declaration confirming the importer's compliance with the export laws of the country of origin. Retain supporting origin-country export documentation for post-clearance audit, as the Free-policy status does not exempt the importer from the origin-country compliance obligation.
ITC (HS) Import Policy, Chapter 97 — Free policy condition

A word of counsel

The most common error on this tariff line is treating the Free import status as a complete clearance — the ITC (HS) policy condition explicitly makes the importer personally responsible for ensuring the goods were lawfully exportable from the country of origin. Failing to obtain origin-country export documentation before shipment can result in consignment detention at customs pending proof of compliance, with demurrage and ground rent accruing throughout.

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Frequently asked

Does HSN 9702 90 00 require BIS certification?

No, original engravings, prints and lithographs are not within the BIS Quality Control Order regime. Import is governed solely by the ITC (HS) Free-import policy administered by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, subject to the origin-country export-law compliance condition.

What origin-country documentation should accompany the shipment?

The documentation depends on the exporting country's own cultural-property or heritage export laws; where those laws require an export permit or certificate, that document should accompany the shipment and be retained for customs audit.

Does the Free import policy mean no customs formalities apply?

No. The Free policy removes the licence requirement at the Indian bill of entry but the ITC (HS) policy condition requires the importer to abide by the export laws and rules of the country of origin, making compliance with those laws a condition of lawful import into India.

Last verified against gazette notifications: 2026-05-16. Source: DGFT / Indian Customs CUSDATA.