MeitY HSE Exemption (NOC) 2026: Eligibility, 100-Unit Cap, Documents & Application Process

The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has issued exemptions for Highly Specialized Equipment (HSE) under the Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2021. The notification of the amendments was done through S.O. 1246(E) dated 10 March 2026 and is effective from 15 June 2026. These are significant changes for manufacturers, importers, and brand owners with highly specialized electronic products that may be exempt from the CRO (Compulsory Registration Order). Under the revised provisions, the eligible Highly Specialized Equipment will be granted an exemption if it satisfies any one of the prescribed technical criteria and the prescribed quantity conditions. The applicants should obtain a special exemption letter, known as an HSE NOC.

What Is MeitY HSE Exemption (NOC) 2026?

The HSE exemption provision requires four technical parameters for the specialized equipment: power source, current rating, size, and weight. It enables you to determine whether the equipment is eligible for the exemption under the relevant regulations.
The exemption requires approval from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and also takes into consideration the specified quantity.

Latest Update on MeitY HSE Exemption 2026

The latest update includes:

• 10 March 2026: The Ministry of Electronics & IT published a gazette notification S.O. 1246(E) that modifies the Order and reproduces Paragraph 8 related to the HSE exemption with the criteria and quantity conditions stated below:
• 12 March 2026: The Ministry of Electronics & IT published a circular on the procedure for granting HSE exemption (Annexure-I) with applications filed through MeitY's online exemption portal.
• 15 June 2026: The amendment and the procedure took effect. Customs officials may allow HSE imports only with an exemption letter issued by MeitY through the online exemption portal, subject to compliance with other applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Who Is Eligible for MeitY HSE Exemption?

The amended order specifies four technical criteria for Highly Specialized Equipment. Equipment may qualify if it meets at least one of the following conditions.

These conditions are relevant when determining whether an item may qualify for an HSE exemption. However, the technical specification must be reviewed in the context of the actual product and its regulatory classification. A product must satisfy the two applicable conditions: quantity and approval conditions.

ERCS Private Limited can assist companies in reviewing their equipment and determining whether the new condition may apply to their products.

What Is the 100-Unit Cap for MeitY HSE Exemption? 

The exemption applies to such machinery that is manufactured or imported in quantities of less than 100 units per model per annum. The procedure of MeitY includes the following additional information:

• The regulatory model number from all locations is counted towards the authorized quantity.
• Once the exemption quantity reaches 100, MeitY stops issuing further exemptions for that calendar year.
• After that, the manufacturer must obtain registration from BIS CRS to import any further quantity.
• Important compliance note: The revised notification uses the term “less than 100 units,” whereas the application process refers to the point at which the authorized number reaches 100. Ensure that you plan the annual quantities per model before applying. If you think that you will cross the threshold, then begin the BIS CRS registration process in advance to avoid any disruption during the year.

Documents Required for MeitY HSE Exemption

According to the procedure, the applicants need to upload the following:

• Brand Authorization Letter that confirms authorization from the brand owner for HSE imports.
• Regulatory Model Number and Quantity, which identifies the model and authorized import quantity.
• Proforma Invoice or Customs Packing List for import-related details.
• Technical Datasheet or Product Specification to establish the equipment's HSE eligibility criteria.
• Safety Test Certificate or Report to provide evidence of product safety.
• OEM Declaration to confirm adherence to relevant international safety standards if the safety test certificate or report is unavailable.

How to Apply for MeitY HSE Exemption (NOC)?

The HSE exemption for processing applications includes assessing equipment eligibility, brand authorization, technical documentation, model, and authorized quantity. The main steps include:

• Log in: Log in to the online exemption portal and navigate to the HSE page.
• Prepare the authorization letter: It should be digitally signed by the brand owner or an authorized representative and include the regulatory model number and the authorized quantity.
• Upload the technical documentation: It includes a proforma invoice or packing list, technical datasheet/specification, and safety test report/OEM declaration.
• Submit the application: An HSE exemption letter will be issued by MeitY through the online exemption portal.
• Use the HSE exemption letter for customs clearance: HSE imports can be cleared by the customs authorities based on MeitY HSE exemption letters issued through the online exemption portal.

How Long Does It Take to Get an HSE NOC, and What Is Its Validity?

MeitY will provide the HSE exemption letter through the portal within 5 working days of the application's submission. Proper completion of documents keeps you on track, as any discrepancy in model number/quantity can result in queries.
The exemption letter is valid up until the end of the calendar year in which it is used. It is not carried forward to the next year; hence, you need to apply again for the coming calendar year.

What Happens After 100 Units?

According to the published procedure, once the exemption quantity reaches 100 in a calendar year, MeitY will stop issuing further HSE exemption letters.
For further imports, the manufacturer will need to obtain BIS CRS registration as specified in the procedure and comply with the requirements applicable to the specific product.

Businesses should not assume that an existing exemption letter covers additional quantities beyond its authorized scope.
A review of the regulatory model, approved quantity, and applicable registration requirements is important before planning additional imports.

Conclusion

The update to MeitY HSE Exemption (NOC) 2026 defines a pathway for qualifying Highly Specialized Equipment within the CRO 2021 guidelines. The updated provisions come into force on 15th June 2026, laying down four technical criteria: model-wise quantities, application, and yearly validity.
The important point for the manufacturer/importer is not merely to determine whether his/her equipment qualifies by meeting a single technical criterion. It is equally important that he/she know the quantity limit, documentation requirements, and BIS CRS registration requirements for any further imports.
Get Professional Help With HSE Exemptions & BIS CRS Compliance from ERCS Private Limited.