P0106 - Purpose Code P0106 - Conversion of overdue export bills

P0106

Purpose Code P0106 - Conversion of overdue export bills

Conversion of overdue export bills

Understand RBI FEMA regulations for converting overdue export bills into inward remittances. Check eligibility, documentation, timelines, compliance requirements, and application steps for this purpose code.

Note: Disclosing the correct FEMA purpose code is mandatory for all cross-border transactions to and from India.

Quick summary

FieldDetails
CodeP0106
CategoryTrade Credit
Applicable ForExporters / Businesses
Transaction DirectionInward
Primary UseConverting overdue export bills into receivable remittances

What is Purpose Code P0106?

Purpose Code P0106 is applied for converting overdue export bills into inward remittances under RBI’s FEMA guidelines. It covers situations where export proceeds remain outstanding beyond the prescribed timeline. This purpose code allows exporters to receive payments as inward remittance after the write-off or the settlement. Using P0106 ensures that the inward remittance is correctly recorded as recovery on overdue export bills and is not mislabeled as fresh trade payments, investment returns, or other non-trade inflows.


When to use P0106 Purpose Code?

This Purpose Code should be used only where the transaction fits its defined regulatory scope. Here's when you should and shouldn't use this code:

You should use this code when:

  • Conversion of overdue export bills - These include conversions of delayed payments on exports and outstanding payments beyond RBI timelines into inward remittance.
  • Write-off supported remittances - Includes remitted recoveries after booking write-off in accounts for proof.
  • Settled dues from foreign buyers - These include completion of pending settlements on past exports.

Do not use this code when:

  • Receiving payments for current exports within timelines.
  • Handling fresh trade receipts.
  • Repatriating investments or profits.
  • Processing loan repayments or non-trade income.

Importance of Purpose Codes

RBI purpose codes are mandatory under FEMA to classify the nature of cross-border transactions entering or leaving India. They allow banks and regulators to accurately track foreign exchange flows and apply the correct regulatory, tax, and reporting treatment.

For individuals, businesses and institutions, correct purpose code usage:

  • Ensures transactions are classified correctly under FEMA.
  • Enables accurate reporting to the RBI and other regulators.
  • Reduces delays caused by compliance checks or misclassification.
  • Supports clean audit trails and tax reconciliation.

Bottom-line:

Using the correct purpose code helps ensure smooth processing, regulatory compliance, and faster credit of funds.


How to apply Purpose Code P0106?

  1. Select P0106 – Conversion of overdue export bills while initiating the inward remittance
  2. Submit overdue export bill details, including invoice, shipping docs, and realisation certificate.
  3. Provide write-off evidence or buyer settlement confirmation.
  4. Submit FEMA declaration.
  5. Complete KYC verification.
  6. BBank reviews documents, applies ECB-like treatment if needed, and processes the transaction.
  7. Transaction is reported to the RBI under FEMA norms.

Additional Notes:

  • PAN mandatory for all export-related remittances.
  • Write-off in books required before remittance conversion.

Documents required for P0106 Purpose Code

DocumentPurpose
Overdue export invoice & shipping docsProves original export & delay
Realisation certificate or bank statementTracks non-realisation
Write-off board resolutionAuthorizes conversion
FEMA DeclarationRBI compliance
KYC documentsIdentity verification

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Using a generic or incorrect purpose code instead of the exact RBI-prescribed purpose code can lead to misclassification of the transaction under FEMA and trigger additional compliance checks by the bank.
  • Mismatch between purpose code, invoice, and remittance narration may place the transaction on hold until clarification is provided.
  • Submitting unclear or incomplete supporting documents that do not clearly describe the nature of the transaction often result in delays, as banks rely on documentation to validate FEMA compliance.
  • Missing mandatory PAN or incomplete KYC documentation can prevent banks from releasing funds until verification is completed.
  • Using service-related purpose codes for non-service transactions like capital receipts, investments, gifts, or refunds can result in incorrect regulatory treatment and potential reporting issues.
  • Assuming small or recurring transactions do not require accuracy and repeated misclassification can attract regulatory scrutiny over time.

How Xflow supports compliant inward remittances

Cross-border payments require accurate purpose code selection and complete compliance documentation. Xflow helps businesses and individuals receive international payments while staying aligned with RBI and FEMA requirements.

With Xflow, you can:

  • Select the correct purpose code with clarity
  • Organize and maintain supporting documents
  • Reduce compliance back-and-forth with banks
  • Support FEMA compliant inward remittances


Frequently asked questions

It is used for receiving profits earned abroad and repatriated to India.

If you use an incorrect Purpose Code for your transactions, you might face cancellations or delays in your payments. Along with that, there are several compliance issues as well that may lead to penalties.

To select the right purpose, consult the purpose code list provided by RBI and make sure that you match your transaction type with the most relevant code. Additionally, to ensure that there are no errors, you can seek professional advice from a reliable banking partner or financial advisor.

In cases you’ve used the wrong Purpose Code for your international transaction, it’s important to act quickly. You must consult your bank or payment service provider as soon as possible to request a correction.

Eligibility depends on the specific transaction type defined by the RBI. Certain codes apply to individuals, others to businesses, and some may apply to both.

Other Purpose Codes