TIOL-DDT 1209 · Tuesday, 6 October 2009 · story 5 of 5

Issue of Bank Guarantee on behalf of service importers – RBI instructions

Banks are allowed to issue guarantees in favour of a non-resident service provider, on behalf of a resident customer who is a service importer, for an amount up to USD 100,000 or its equivalent.

With a view to further liberalise the procedure (other than in respect of a Public Sector Company or a Department/ Undertaking of the Government of India/ State Governments) for import of services, it has been decided to increase the limit for issue of guarantee by AD Category-I banks from USD 100,000 to USD 500,000. Accordingly, AD Category-I banks are now permitted to issue guarantee for amount not exceeding USD 500,000 or its equivalent in favour of a non-resident service provider, on behalf of a resident customer who is a service importer.

Circular No. 11/ RBI ., Dated: October 5, 2009