What changed
RBI had earlier made GR forms available online in 2009 but continued selling printed copies for a year. Now, with effect from July 1, 2012, RBI will completely discontinue over-the-counter sale of printed GR forms at its regional offices. Only the online version on RBI's website will be available.
What it means for you
Banks must inform their exporter customers that they can no longer buy GR forms from RBI offices. Exporters need to download the form from RBI's website, print it on legal-size paper (8.5 x 14 inches), and ensure printer settings are correct for auto-allotment of the GR number. This move aligns with digital adoption and reduces RBI's administrative burden.
What you must do
- Notify all exporter customers about the discontinuation of printed GR form sales at RBI regional offices from July 1, 2012.
- Guide exporters to download GR forms from RBI's website at the specified link and print on legal-size paper with correct settings.
- Ensure your bank's internal processes for handling GR forms are updated to accept only online-downloaded forms after the cutoff date.
Who it affects
All Category-I Authorised Dealer Banks, Exporters who use GR forms for foreign exchange remittances
What happens if an exporter tries to buy a printed GR form from RBI after June 30, 2012?
RBI will not sell or supply printed GR forms over the counter from July 1, 2012. Exporters must download the form online from RBI's website.
What paper size and settings are required for printing the GR form?
The form must be printed on legal-size paper (8.5 x 14 inches). Both the printer preference and page setup paper size must be set to legal before printing to ensure the GR number is auto-assigned.
Will the GR number be generated automatically when downloading?
No, the GR number is automatically allotted only when the document goes to the print queue, not at the time of download.