AUTHORISED CONSULTANTS FOR

AEO-T1 Certification Consultants

Helping importers and exporters obtain AEO-T1 certification with expert guidance, end-to-end support and a smooth, hassle-free process.

Apply Now Talk to an Expert

Faster Customs ClearanceExperience quicker cargo movement
Reduced InspectionsLower physical examination
Global RecognitionEnhanced trust in international trade
Better Trade EfficiencyStreamlined business operations

AEO-T1 certification consultants guiding an importer — Expert Guidance
for AEO-T1 Certification

ABOUT AEO-T1 CERTIFICATION

What is AEO-T1 Certification?

AEO-T1 (Authorized Economic Operator - Tier 1) is the entry level of the AEO programme run by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). It recognises importers and exporters who show strong customs compliance, sound finances and a proven track record.

It offers simplified customs procedures, faster clearance and greater ease of doing business in international trade, and it is the first step towards AEO-T2 and AEO-T3.

Who is it for?Importers and exporters with a strong compliance history and established business operations.
Key ObjectiveTo recognise trustworthy businesses and make global trade faster, smoother and more secure.

AEO-T1 is the ideal starting point for businesses looking to strengthen their global trade operations and gain recognition as a trusted partner.

500+ Happy Clients
1,000+ Projects Delivered
20+ Experienced Professionals
10+ Years of Experience

AEO-T1 certified cargo moving faster through Indian customs

KEY BENEFITS OF AEO-T1 CERTIFICATION

Unlock Greater Trade Advantages

AEO-T1 certification helps your business achieve faster clearances, lower compliance burden and stronger credibility in global markets.

Apply for AEO-T1

Reduced Examination Lower physical inspection of cargo.
Quicker Cargo Movement Faster clearance at ports and ICDs.
Lower Compliance Friction Simplified procedures and fewer interventions.
Better Credibility Enhanced reputation with customs and global partners.
Smoother Customs Interaction Priority treatment and dedicated facilitation.
Stronger Supply Chain Confidence Build trust with customers and international stakeholders.

Customs compliance officer checking AEO-T1 eligibility at a port

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Are You Eligible for AEO-T1?

AEO-T1 is meant for compliant and reliable importers and exporters who meet the criteria set by CBIC.

Check Your Eligibility

Importer / Exporter Must be an active IEC holder.
Financial Solvency Sound financial standing.
Good Compliance Record No serious customs violations in the last 3 financial years.
Business Process Controls Robust internal controls and security.
Documentation Readiness Proper records and internal systems.
Track Record 25+ Bills of Entry / Shipping Bills in the last 3 financial years.

ELIGIBILITY

Who Can Apply for AEO-T1 Certification?

AEO-T1 certification is available for:

Importers
Exporters
Manufacturers who export or import
Traders involved in international trade

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria prescribed by CBIC, including compliance history, financial solvency and record keeping.

Check Detailed Eligibility

Cargo plane over a container yard - AEO-T1 for importers and exporters — **Key Eligibility Parameters**
Import/export activity in the last 3 financial years
25+ Bills of Entry / Shipping Bills in that period
Satisfactory customs compliance record
No serious penalties or prosecutions
Financial solvency and sound records

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

Get Your Documents Ready

We help you prepare and organise every document needed for a smooth AEO-T1 application.

View Detailed Checklist

IEC Certificate
Financial Statements (Last 3 Years)
PAN & GST Registration
Board Resolution / Authorisation
Corporate Profile / Business Overview
Details of Key Management Personnel
Customs Compliance Records (Last 3 Years)
Internal Process & Security Documents

STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS

How We Help You Get AEO-T1 Certified

We follow a structured and transparent process to ensure a smooth certification journey.

01 Initial Consultation Understand your business and assess readiness.
02 Gap Assessment Identify gaps and provide an action plan.
03 Documentation Support Prepare and review all required documents.
04 Application Filing File the application with CBIC.
05 Department Interaction Assist during queries and verification.
06 Certification Support Follow up till the AEO-T1 certificate is issued.

Timeline Within 30 Days CBIC target for issuing AEO-T1 after the application is filed

Government Fees Nil CBIC charges no government fee for the AEO application

Need Guidance on AEO-T1 Certification?

Our experts will help you with eligibility assessment, documentation and end-to-end filing support.

Get Free Consultation

ELT Corporate consultants with an AEO-T1 client

WHY CHOOSE ELT CORPORATE

Your Trusted AEO-T1 Certification Partner

With deep domain expertise, practical solutions and a client-centric approach, we make your AEO-T1 certification journey simple and effective.

Expert Guidance Experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge.
End-to-End Support From documentation to certification.
Practical Solutions Tailored to your business needs.
Transparent Process Clear communication at every step.
Timely Execution Focus on fast and efficient delivery.
Long-Term Partnership Ongoing support even after certification.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

AEO-T1 Certification - FAQs

What is AEO-T1 certification?

AEO-T1 is the first tier of the Authorized Economic Operator programme of CBIC. It recognises importers and exporters with a good compliance record and gives them faster, simpler customs clearance.

Who can apply for AEO-T1?

Importers and exporters established in India with business activity in the last 3 financial years, at least 25 Bills of Entry or Shipping Bills in that period, a clean compliance record and sound finances. MSMEs get relaxed criteria (2 years and 10 documents).

What is the validity of the AEO-T1 certificate?

Since CBIC Circular 18/2021, AEO-T1 is a continuous certification: it does not need periodic renewal and stays valid as long as the holder keeps filing the annual self-declaration and stays compliant.

What are the major benefits of AEO-T1?

Faster clearance, reduced physical examination, lower bank guarantee, recognition by customs and global partners, and a clear path to AEO-T2 and AEO-T3.

How long does it take to get AEO-T1 certification?

CBIC aims to issue the AEO-T1 certificate within 30 days of filing the application, provided the documents are complete. Preparing the documents usually takes a few weeks before that.

What is the government fee for AEO-T1?

CBIC does not charge any government fee for the AEO application. You only pay for professional support if you take it.

Can AEO-T1 be upgraded to AEO-T2 or AEO-T3?

Yes. An AEO-T1 holder can apply for AEO-T2, which adds physical verification of security systems. AEO-T3 is open to businesses that have held AEO-T2 for two years.

What happens if compliance requirements are not met?

Customs can review, suspend or revoke the AEO status if the holder fails to stay compliant or the annual self-declaration is not filed. Fixing the gap early keeps the certificate safe.

Still Have Questions?

Talk to our AEO experts to get clarity on your specific requirements.

Talk to an Expert