EPR Certificate for Import in India: Everything You Need to Know

What is an EPR Certificate?

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a legal obligation that makes importers and producers responsible for managing the waste generated by their products. In India, this applies to four main categories:

Electronics and Electrical Equipment (EEE)
Plastic Packaging
Batteries
Tyres

If you’re bringing any of these into India, you’re considered a “producer” under EPR rules — even if you didn’t manufacture them. You must ensure that the waste generated from these products is collected, recycled, or disposed of responsibly.

The EPR Certificate, issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), is proof that you’ve committed to fulfilling these responsibilities.

Why is the EPR Certificate Mandatory for Importers?

Here’s why you must obtain the certificate before you import:

Customs Requirement: Indian customs now checks for EPR registration before clearing consignments of regulated goods.
Legal Compliance: EPR is a legal mandate under various waste management rules. Operating without it can lead to penalties.
Business Continuity: Without a valid EPR Certificate, your import license (IEC) may face suspension or cancellation.
Brand Image: Showing environmental responsibility boosts your credibility among buyers and business partners.

Products That Require EPR Registration

The EPR norms apply to a wide range of products. Below are the key categories:

1. Electronics (E-Waste)

Includes items like:

Mobile phones
Laptops
Televisions
Refrigerators
Washing machines

Applicable Law: E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022

2. Plastic Packaging

Includes:

Primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging
Plastic wrapping, films, bags, and containers

Applicable Law: Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 (Amended)

3. Batteries

Covers all types:

Lithium-ion
Lead-acid
Industrial and EV batteries

Applicable Law: Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022

4. Tyres

Both new and used tyres fall under this category.

Applicable Law: CPCB Guidelines for Tyre Waste Management

Documents Required for EPR Certificate (For Importers)

When applying for an EPR Certificate, you’ll need to submit:

PAN and GST Certificate of the business
Import Export Code (IEC)
Certificate of Incorporation
Product details (specs, HSN codes, datasheets)
BIS Certificate (if applicable)
Sample invoices of import
Aadhaar/PAN of Authorized Person
Agreement with a registered PRO or recycler
Product photographs

At Agile Regulatory, we help you prepare and validate these documents to ensure your application goes through without errors or delays.

Step-by-Step Process to Get an EPR Certificate for Import

We’ve simplified the entire process for importers through a step-by-step approach:

Step 1: Initial Consultation

We understand your product type, import volume, and category under EPR guidelines.

Step 2: Document Assistance

Our team assists you in collecting and verifying all the required documents.

Step 3: CPCB Portal Registration

We create your official account and upload your application on the CPCB’s EPR portal.

Step 4: Liaison & Follow-up

We handle all follow-ups, clarifications, and queries raised by CPCB authorities.

Step 5: Certificate Issuance

Once approved, you receive your EPR Certificate — valid for import clearance and future compliance filings.

How Agile Regulatory Helps You

Getting an EPR Certificate involves multiple steps, coordination with recyclers or PROs, and a deep understanding of the CPCB portal. That’s where we come in.

At Agile Regulatory, we provide:

✅ End-to-End Support: From document prep to final approval
✅ Fast Turnaround: Faster application processing with experienced professionals
✅ Clarity and Guidance: Expert help on category selection, HSN codes, and rule applicability
✅ Zero Hassle: We handle the technicalities so you can focus on your business

Whether you’re importing for the first time or expanding your product range, we ensure your registration is smooth and compliant.

What Happens If You Don’t Have an EPR Certificate?

Many importers don’t realize how strict enforcement has become. Skipping EPR registration can lead to:

🚫 Customs clearance denial
💸 Heavy penalties from CPCB
⚠️ Suspension of your Import Export Code (IEC)
🛑 Legal issues and reputational damage

Don’t risk your business over missed paperwork — EPR is no longer optional.

Timeline and Validity

Processing Time: 15–25 working days (varies by category and document readiness)
Validity: Generally 1 year (can be renewed annually with updated waste management data)

You’ll also need to file annual returns showing how you’ve managed the waste. Agile Regulatory helps with that too.

FAQs About EPR Certificate for Import

Q1. Can a small business or startup apply for EPR?
Yes. EPR registration is mandatory regardless of company size — what matters is the product category.

Q2. Is a PRO agreement compulsory?
Yes, for most categories like plastic, batteries, and e-waste, you must tie up with a registered PRO or recycler.

Q3. Can I import first and apply for EPR later?
No. Customs requires proof of EPR registration before clearing goods.

Q4. How do I file annual returns?
Annual returns must be submitted on the CPCB portal. Our team will assist you in filing them correctly and on time.