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Tobacco License

NEED TOBACCO LICENSE but don’t know how to get registration and return?

Here you will find complete and updated information on Tobacco License Registration in India.

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Required Documents

The applicants should upload the self-attested scanned documents as mentioned below along with submission of application and payment of requisite fees:

a) Self certified copy of latest Bank Certificate against current account of the applicants’ banker

b) Copies of Declaration Form and letter of Undertaking on Company Letter head

c) Self-certified copy of Partnership Deed/Memorandum of Articles of Association along with full addresses of partners/directors, if the firm is Partnership /Private Ltd / Public Ltd.

d) Self-certified copy of GST certificate.

e) Self-certified copy of PAN Card

f) Self-certified copy of Importer Exporter Code (IEC) certificate

g) All the exporters who are having Udyam/MSME Registration shall upload self certified copy of the said registration certificate.

REGISTRATION PROCESS

Process To Start Tobacco License

01
Gather Your Essential Documents
Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready.You will need to upload these documents as part of your application.
02
Complete the Application and Upload Documents
Upload all the necessary documents in the specified format. Double-checking this step is crucial to avoid any delays.
03
The Verification and Approval Stage
The Tobacco Board will verify your details and documents. They may conduct inspections or ask for more information.
04
Receive Your Certificate and Understand Its Validity
A Tobacco Board registration is valid for a calendar year and must be renewed annually. This renewal process also has specific deadlines and fees.
Essential Rules to Follow After Getting Your License
The Strict Prohibition of Sale to Minors (Now 21 in Some States)

Selling tobacco products to anyone under the age of 18 is strictly prohibited under COTPA. Some states have even raised the minimum age to 21. Violation of this rule can lead to heavy fines and even i... View More

The 100-Yard Rule: No Tobacco Sales Near Educational Institutions

You cannot sell tobacco products within a 100-yard radius of any educational institution. This is a key provision of COTPA.

Mandatory Health Warnings on Packets

All tobacco products must carry pictorial and textual health warnings covering at least 85% of the packaging. Selling non-compliant packets is an offence.

No Mixing Tobacco with Food or Children’s Products

Shops holding a tobacco license are often restricted from selling candies, snacks, toys, or soft drinks alongside tobacco products.

Restrictions on Advertising and Promotions

Shops cannot display posters, boards, or hoardings promoting tobacco. Even indirect advertisements or free product displays are not allowed.

FAQs
What is Tobacco Registration?

Tobacco Registration is a mandatory registration issued by the Tobacco Board of India for entities involved in manufacturing, exporting, or dealing in tobacco.

Who is required to obtain Tobacco Registration?

• Dealer in Tobacco • Exporter of Tobacco • Exporter of Tobacco Products • Processor of Virginia Tobacco • Manufacturer of Virginia Tobacco • Packer of Tobacco • Commercial Grader of Virginia Tobacco

Is Tobacco Registration mandatory for exporters?

Yes. No tobacco export is allowed without valid Tobacco Board registration, even if IEC and GST are available.

How long is a Tobacco Board registration valid, and how is it renewed?

A Tobacco Board registration is valid for one calendar year. You need to renew it annually by submitting a new application and paying the applicable renewal fee before the deadline.

Can I sell tobacco products online or on e-commerce websites in India?

No, the sale of tobacco products online is prohibited in India under the COTPA Act. This is a strict rule that is part of the ban on advertising and promotion. Anyone asking about a "license to sell tobacco products online" should be aware of this.

Is a license required for tobacco farming in India?

Yes, any person or entity involved in the cultivation of Virginia tobacco must get a tobacco grower's license from the Tobacco Board.

How long does it take to get a tobacco license?

It usually takes 15 to 30 working days to get a tobacco license in India, depending on the state and type of business. The timeline includes application submission, document verification, inspection (if required), and final approval. Renewal generally takes less time, around 7 to 15 working days.

Can Tobacco Registration be cancelled?

Yes. Registration can be suspended or cancelled for: Non-filing of returns False information Violation of Tobacco Board rules

What is Form 18?

Form 18 is a monthly return filed by manufacturer-cum-exporters of tobacco, reporting: Production Export Stock position

What is the due date for filing Form 18?

15th day of the succeeding month Example: January return → 15 February

Is Form 18 required if there is no export?

es. NIL return filing is mandatory even if: No production No export No movement of stock

Should Form 18 data match GST returns?

Yes. Export figures in Form 18 should match: GST returns Shipping bills Export invoices Mismatch may attract scrutiny.