FICCI India's Sole National Issuing & Guaranteeing Association (NIGA) for ATA Carnet
Starting Monday, 1 June 2026, 30 countries - including EU member states, Norway, Switzerland and the UK - will begin transitioning from traditional paper ATA Carnets to a new e-ATA Carnet format. This move to e-ATA Carnets marks a major step forward in modernizing temporary export processes. The e-ATA system offers a more sustainable and efficient approach, providing real-time visibility and reducing liability for Carnet holders worldwide.
It's simply a digital version of the Carnet you already use, which can be downloaded and stored on a smartphone, tablet, or desktop using an ID and PIN code. This allows you to access your Carnet anytime, anywhere, making the process even more convenient and secure.
India is planning to transition to e-ATA Carnets in 2026/2027. The global transition is expected to conclude by December 2027, with the entire system becoming fully digital by 2028.
During this transition period, both paper and digital Carnets will coexist. Carnet holders should be prepared to use either format depending on their travel destinations and requirements.
In the near term, Indian Carnet holders should continue to use paper carnets in India and digital carnets in EU member states, Norway, Switzerland and the UK until India transitions to e-ATA Carnets.
Step 1 — Application (unchanged): Carnet holders will continue to apply online through www.atacarnet.in just as they do today. There are no changes to the application process with the introduction of e-ATA Carnets.
Step 2 — Download to wallet: The holder downloads the Carnet issued by the Chamber into their smartphone wallet using the ATA Carnet app. If needed, the holder can securely share the Carnet with their representative. The digital Carnet is encrypted and is never transmitted in an unencrypted format over the network, ensuring data security at all times.
Step 3 — Border crossing: At border crossings, the Carnet holder or their representative unlocks their digital wallet and displays a QR code that is linked to a specific Carnet and transaction. These QR codes serve as a digital replacement for the paper counterfoils and vouchers traditionally used, streamlining the customs process.
Step 4 — Customs verification: The customs officer scans the ATA Carnet QR code or inputs the Carnet ID and transaction code, views the detailed information, and confirms transactions.
Step 5 — Digital confirmation: The transaction is digitally recorded, and a confirmation is sent to the holder or representative's smartphone.
Step 6 — Claims management: Customs authorities can identify potential claims and eliminate unnecessary ones through virtual voucher reconciliation. This digital process allows for more effective management of claims in collaboration with National Issuing & Guaranteeing Associations (NIGAs), improving accuracy and efficiency throughout the system.
For more information on e-ATA Carnet, please contact FICCI.
More information is also available at: https://uscib.org/ata-carnet-export-service/e-ata-carnet/