Import and export activities in Bangladesh require proper customs handling through licensed professionals. To legally operate as a Clearing & Forwarding (C&F) Agent, obtaining a C&F License from the customs authority is mandatory. This guide explains the C&F license registration process in Bangladesh, eligibility criteria, required documents, and compliance obligations.
A Clearing & Forwarding (C&F) License authorizes an individual or firm to act on behalf of importers and exporters for:
Customs clearance of goods
Documentation and filing with customs
Coordination with ports, ICDs, and bonded warehouses
Compliance with customs laws and procedures
Without a valid C&F license, no person or firm can legally perform customs clearing activities in Bangladesh.
C&F licenses are issued and regulated by Bangladesh Customs under the supervision of the National Board of Revenue.
To apply for a C&F license, the applicant must meet the following conditions:
Bangladeshi citizen
Minimum educational qualification (generally graduate level preferred)
Sound financial standing
No criminal record or customs offence history
Adequate knowledge of customs laws, procedures, and documentation
Licenses are issued either:
In individual capacity, or
In the name of a proprietorship / partnership firm
Before applying for a C&F license, complete the following:
Trade License from City Corporation / Municipality
TIN (Tax Identification Number)
Bank Account in the applicant’s or firm’s name
Submit the prescribed application form to the concerned Customs House / Commissionerate along with supporting documents.
Applicants must pass a customs competency examination, which includes:
Customs Act & Rules
Import–Export Policy
HS Code classification
Customs valuation & duty calculation
Port and bonded warehouse procedures
After qualifying:
Deposit the required security money to customs
Obtain final approval from the customs authority
Receive the C&F License Certificate
Application in prescribed format
Updated Trade License
TIN Certificate
National ID / Passport
Educational Certificates
Bank Solvency Certificate
Police Clearance Certificate
Passport-size photographs
Security deposit challan
C&F licenses are issued for a specific validity period
Renewal must be done before expiry
Continuous compliance with customs laws is mandatory
Failure to comply may result in suspension or cancellation of the license.
A licensed C&F agent must:
Ensure accurate customs declarations
Avoid misclassification or undervaluation
Maintain proper records
Cooperate with customs audits and inspections
Follow ethical and professional conduct
C&F licensing involves regulatory scrutiny, examinations, and compliance risks. Professional guidance ensures:
Correct documentation
Faster approval
Reduced risk of rejection
Ongoing compliance support
S. Rahman & Co., Chartered Accountants, provides end-to-end support for:
C&F license registration
Documentation & application preparation
Regulatory liaison with customs
Advisory on customs compliance & operational setup
Our structured approach helps clients obtain licenses efficiently while remaining fully compliant with Bangladeshi laws.
Q1: How long does it take to obtain a C&F license in Bangladesh?
Typically, 3–6 months, depending on examination schedules and regulatory approvals.
Q2: Can a company apply for a C&F license?
Generally, licenses are issued in individual capacity, though firms can operate under a licensed individual.
Q3: Is the customs exam mandatory?
Yes, passing the written and viva examination is compulsory.
Q4: Is the C&F license transferable?
No, C&F licenses are non-transferable.
Q5: What happens if customs rules are violated?
Penalties may include fines, suspension, or cancellation of the license.
Contact S. Rahman & Co. today for professional assistance and hassle-free C&F license registration.
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