CBIC Enables Voluntary Payment Electronically on ICEGATE e-Payment Platform: A Step Towards Digital Customs Processing
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) issued Circular No. 27/2024-Customs on December 23, 2024, introducing voluntary payment through the ICEGATE e-Payment Platform.
This initiative aligns with the Government’s commitment to digitizing services and reducing paperwork. It replaces manual TR-6 payments at Customs Stations, allowing users to generate challans for past imports or exports and pay directly on the ICEGATE platform without requiring Customs officer approval.
Key Features of the Voluntary Payment Facility
1. Post-login Access
Registered users can access the voluntary payment module after logging into ICEGATE.
2. Use Cases
The facility applies only to past transactions, such as customs duties for cleared imports and exports. It does not cover live consignment payments handled by ICES/ECCS/SEZ online ACES applications.
3. Payment Options
- Internet banking via nine authorized banks
- NEFT/RTGS through RBI
- Payment Aggregator mode
More banks will be included after future testing.
4. Verification
Users can verify payment details on the ICEGATE portal (https://foservices.icegate.gov.in/#/epayment/enquiry).
Important Guidelines
Challan-wise Payments
Users can make payments on a transaction-wise basis, with the system routing payments through the Electronic Cash Ledger.
Transition Deadline
The shift from manual TR-6 payments to electronic payments must be completed by December 31, 2024. After this date, manual payments will require approval from the Pr. Commissioner/Commissioner of Customs.
User Manual
A detailed user manual is available on the ICEGATE platform to guide users through the Voluntary/Self-Initiated Payment (SIP) process.
Advancing Digital Customs Processing
This voluntary payment initiative simplifies customs operations, eliminates manual paperwork, and enhances the user experience on ICEGATE. It underscores CBIC’s ongoing efforts to modernize systems and improve efficiency for businesses.
