HSN Code for Laptop in India: Classification, Import Duty & BIS Requirements

The HSN code for laptops in India is 8471.30.10 under Chapter 84 of the Customs Tariff Act, classified as portable automatic data processing machines weighing not more than 10 kg. The Basic Customs Duty is 0% under India's ITA-1 commitment, with 18% IGST applicable on the assessable value. BIS CRS registration under IS 13252 (Part 1) is mandatory before import.

What is the HSN code for laptops in India?

Laptops fall under HSN code 8471.30.10 — portable automatic data processing machines not exceeding 10 kg in weight. This sits under Chapter 84 of the Customs Tariff Act, 1975, which covers nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery, and mechanical appliances. If you're looking for the broader classification that includes desktops and servers, see our complete guide to HSN codes for computers.

For a device to qualify under 8471.30.10, it must have at least three components: a central processing unit, a keyboard, and a display. Standard laptops and notebooks meet this definition without any ambiguity.

Where it gets tricky is with 2-in-1 devices and tablets. If a tablet has a detachable keyboard and functions primarily as a computing device, it can fall under 8471.30.10. But if the keyboard is optional and the device is marketed and used primarily as a tablet, it may be classified under 8471.30.90 (other portable ADP machines). The classification depends on the primary function of the device at the time of import, not what accessories ship in the box.

What is the import duty on laptops in India in 2026?

India is a signatory to the WTO Information Technology Agreement (ITA-1), which means laptops classified under 8471.30.10 attract 0% Basic Customs Duty (BCD). Since BCD is zero, the Social Welfare Surcharge (10% of BCD) also works out to zero.

The only duty that actually applies is IGST at 18% on the assessable value.

Here's a worked example:

• CIF value of laptop: ₹50,000

• Basic Customs Duty (0%): ₹0

• Social Welfare Surcharge (10% of BCD): ₹0

• Assessable value for IGST: ₹50,000

• IGST (18%): ₹9,000

• Total landed cost: ₹59,000

One thing many importers overlook: even though BCD is zero, you still need a DGFT import authorization. Since 2023, laptops have been under the restricted import category. You cannot clear them at the port without this authorization, regardless of the duty rate.

Is BIS certification required to import laptops?

Yes. Laptops require BIS CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme) certification under IS 13252 (Part 1), which covers safety requirements for IT equipment. BIS certification is a separate compliance from DGFT authorization — both are mandatory, and missing either one will get your consignment held at the port.

The registration process works like this:

1. Apply on the BIS CRS portal with product details and test reports

1. Get your laptop model tested at a BIS-recognized lab (ERTL, TUV, UL, or equivalent)

1. Testing covers electrical safety, thermal performance, and EMC compliance

1. BIS reviews the application and test reports

1. Registration is granted per model — each variant needs separate registration

First-time registration typically takes 6 to 10 weeks, assuming the test reports are clean and documentation is complete. Renewals are faster.

If you import laptops without valid BIS CRS registration, customs will detain the consignment at the port. You'll face penalties, storage charges, and in some cases, the goods may be re-exported at your cost. This is not a theoretical risk — it happens regularly with laptop shipments.

What is the HSN code for laptop accessories and chargers?

This is where most classification errors happen. Laptop accessories do not all fall under Chapter 84. Each accessory has its own HSN code, and getting this wrong affects your duty liability. The classification logic here is similar to what applies to desktop computers and server accessories, but with some laptop-specific differences.

Source: CBIC Customs Tariff, Chapter 84 and 85 (2025-26)

The most frequent mistake is classifying laptop chargers under 8471 as "computer parts." Chargers are static converters and belong under 8504.40.90 in Chapter 85. The duty rate happens to be the same (0% BCD under ITA-1), but incorrect classification can trigger audit queries and reassessment notices.

Laptop bags are a different story — they fall under Chapter 42 (articles of leather and travel goods) with 15% BCD. That's a significant duty difference if you're importing bags bundled with laptops and declaring everything under 8471.

Laptop batteries (lithium-ion, heading 8507.60) are another one importers get wrong. Unlike laptops themselves, lithium-ion batteries are not covered under the ITA-1 zero-duty exemption. The BCD on laptop batteries is 15%, and they also have separate dangerous goods compliance requirements for shipping.

What are the common classification mistakes for laptops?

Five errors come up repeatedly:

1. Confusing laptops with tablets. A tablet without a built-in keyboard is not automatically 8471.30.10. If the keyboard is sold separately, the tablet may classify under a different sub-heading with different regulatory requirements. The same classification logic applies to mobile phones and tablets — see our HSN code guide for mobile phones for how tablet-vs-phone classification works.

1. Classifying chargers under Chapter 84. Chargers are power supplies (Chapter 85, heading 8504), not computer parts. Filing them under 8471 is technically incorrect even if the duty rate is the same.

1. Not claiming the ITA-1 concession. Some customs brokers file laptops at 7.5% BCD because that's the general rate for Chapter 84 machinery. The ITA-1 exemption brings it to 0%, but you need to claim it — it's not automatic in ICEGATE.

1. Importing refurbished laptops without proper declaration. Refurbished and second-hand laptops have additional compliance requirements, including a declaration of condition and, in some cases, different import policy conditions.

1. Missing the DGFT import authorization. Since the 2023 restriction, every laptop shipment needs an authorization from DGFT. Forgetting this doesn't just mean a fine — it means your goods sit at the port until you get one, and you pay demurrage every day.

Frequently asked questions

What is the 8-digit HSN code for laptops in India?

The 8-digit HSN code for laptops is 8471.30.10. This covers portable automatic data processing machines (laptops and notebooks) weighing not more than 10 kg, with at least a central processing unit, a keyboard, and a display. It falls under Chapter 84 of the Customs Tariff.

Is the import duty on laptops 0% in India?

The Basic Customs Duty is 0% because India signed the WTO Information Technology Agreement (ITA-1). But 18% IGST still applies on the assessable value, so the effective landed cost is about 18% above CIF value. BCD being zero doesn't mean duty-free.

Do I need a license to import laptops into India?

As of 2026, yes. Laptops are under the restricted import category and require an import authorization from DGFT. You also need BIS CRS registration under IS 13252 (Part 1) and EPR authorization under e-waste management rules. Three separate compliances before your shipment clears.

What is the HSN code for a laptop charger?

Laptop chargers are classified under HSN 8504.40.90 as static converters (power supplies) under Chapter 85. This is a different chapter from the laptop itself (Chapter 84). Many importers incorrectly classify chargers under 8471, which can trigger reassessment during customs audit.

What is the GST rate on laptops in India?

Laptops attract 18% GST for domestic supply under HSN 8471. The same rate applies as IGST on imports. Businesses purchasing laptops for business use can claim input tax credit on the GST paid.

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