In order to become a Custom House Agent (CHA) in India, you must obtain a Customs Broker License under the Customs Brokers Licensing Regulations (CBLR), 2018.
What is a customs house agent job description?
“Customs House Agent” means a person licensed under these regulations to act as agent for the transaction of any business relating to the entry or departure of conveyances or the import or export of goods at any Customs Station.
What are the roles of a custom agent?
The role of CHA is to compute taxes on behalf of the Commissioner Customs & border Control.
The CHA acts as a link between importer and Customs & border Control.
The CHA prepares documentation on behalf of the importer and submits them to Customs & Border Control.
The CHA acts as a liaison between the importer and other government agencies.
How to become a custom House agent?
Customs house agents to be licensed in india
No person shall carry on business as a Customs House Agent relating to the entry or departure of a conveyance or the import or export of goods at any Customs Station unless such person holds a licence granted under these regulations.
Provided that no licence under these regulations shall be required by :—
- an importer or exporter transacting any business at a Customs Station solely on his own account.
- any employee of any person or a firm transacting business generally on behalf of such person or firm, and holding an identity card or a temporary pass issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Customs or Assistant Commissioner of Customs.
- an agent employed for one or more vessels or aircrafts in order solely to enter or clear such vessels or aircrafts for work incidental to his employment as such agent.
Necessary Qualifications To Be Eligible To Become Customs House Agents in India
Here are some necessary conditions to be eligible to become Customs House Agent in India:
- Must be a citizen of India
- Graduate from a standard university
- Professional degree in the field of M.B.A, C.A or LL.B.
Or
Diploma in customs clearance work from any institution or university accredited by Government of India, having proficiency in computers and customs procedures.
Or
Graduate having at least 3-years’ experience in managing Custom House Agent work as a G-Card holder
Or
has passed the examination mentioned to in regulation 8 or is a retired Group ‘A’ officer of the Indian customs and central Excise service (IC&CES) having at least 10 years’ experience in Group ‘A.
Customs Brokers Licensing Examination
The Customs Brokers Licensing Examination is a written examination that is a Computer Based Examination with Multiple Choice Questions. Questions are bilingual i.e. in English and Hindi. Candidates have the option to answer either in English or Hindi. Other details are as follows:
No. of questions : 150
Time duration : Two and half hours (10:30 hrs to 13:00 hrs)
Marking scheme : +3 for each correct answer and -1 for each incorrect answer
Maximum marks : 450
Qualifying marks : 270 (60%)
Those qualifying in the written examination will have to appear in oral examination in terms of Regulation 6 of the Customs Brokers Licensing Regulations, 2018, as amended. The pass percentage marks for qualifying in the oral examination will be 60%.
How to get a CHA license in India?
Obtain a CHA License
Application: Submit an application to the Commissioner of Customs in your area. This application should include:
- Your educational qualifications.
- Experience in the field (if any).
- A character certificate from a gazetted officer.
Documentation: Prepare the necessary documents, including identity proof, address proof, and any other required certificates.
Examination: You must pass the Customs House Agent Examination conducted by the Customs Department. This exam tests your knowledge of customs laws, procedures, and related topics.
Training
- It is advisable to undergo training or an internship with an established CHA or a freight forwarding company. This will provide practical knowledge of customs procedures and documentation.
4. Application for License
- After passing the examination, you can apply for a CHA license. The application should include:
- Examination pass certificate.
- Application fee (as prescribed by the Customs Department).
- Any other documents as required.
5. Background Check
- The Customs Department will conduct a background check to verify your credentials and character.
6. Issuance of License
- Once your application is approved and the background check is clear, you will receive your CHA license. This license is valid for five years and can be renewed.
7. Compliance and Regulations
- After obtaining the license, you must adhere to the rules and regulations set by the Customs Department, including maintaining records, filing returns, and complying with customs laws.
8. Continuing Education
- Stay updated on changes in customs regulations, trade policies, and international shipping laws. Attending workshops and seminars can be beneficial.
What is the cost of CHA license?
The cost to obtain a Customs House Agent (CHA) license in India is Rs. 5,000. The license is valid for 10 years and can be renewed.
Custom House Agent Salary
A Custom House Agent (CHA) plays a crucial role in the import-export industry, facilitating smooth clearance of goods through customs. The salary of a CHA in India varies based on experience, location, and the volume of business handled. On average, an entry-level CHA earns between ₹3-5 lakhs per annum, while experienced professionals with a strong clientele can earn upwards of ₹10-20 lakhs per year. Independent CHAs or those handling high-value shipments often earn significantly more through commissions and service charges.
Several factors influence a CHA’s earnings, including expertise in customs regulations, industry demand, and client base. Working in major ports like Mumbai, Chennai, or Kolkata typically offers higher earning potential due to increased trade activity. Additionally, CHAs who specialize in specific industries, such as pharmaceuticals, automotive, or electronics, may command premium rates for their services. Many professionals also expand their operations by offering value-added services like freight forwarding and warehousing, further boosting their income.
With the increasing digitalization of customs clearance procedures, CHAs who stay updated with government policies, online filing systems, and trade regulations have a competitive edge. Certifications, such as a CHA License from the Indian Customs, enhance credibility and open doors to higher-paying opportunities. As global trade continues to grow, the demand for skilled CHAs is expected to rise, making it a lucrative career choice for those in logistics and international trade.
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