SOFTEX Form Filing: What Software Exporters File from 1 October 2026
SOFTEX form filing was the way software exporters reported service exports to STPI or their bank. From 1 October 2026, under the RBI’s FEMA Export and Import Regulations, 2026, software and services go through one Export Declaration Form (EDF). One EDF can cover a whole month, filed within 30 days of the month-end.
What it is
SOFTEX was the declaration software and IT-enabled service exporters made for each export, certified by STPI or an authorised dealer bank. It let the bank match foreign receipts against the export for FEMA reporting.
The RBI notified the Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2026 on 13 January 2026, effective 1 October 2026. They replace the 2015 export regulations and bring goods, services and software under one Export Declaration Form. So the practical question today is how to file the EDF for your software exports, and we handle that on your behalf.
Here is the catch: many exporters still search for SOFTEX form filing out of habit and assume nothing changed. It did. Your bank or STPI will now ask for the EDF, and the rhythm is monthly, not per invoice.
In practice, the work is mostly bookkeeping. If your invoices, GST returns and bank credits agree, the EDF takes minutes. If they do not, the gap surfaces at the bank, usually on the day you need a remittance cleared.
Who it applies to
Software and IT companies
Take a Faridabad firm building software for a client in the US or Europe. It now reports its invoices through the EDF. The specified authority for software can be STPI or your authorised dealer bank, depending on your registration.
Freelancers and consultants
The new framework covers service exports generally, including individuals who invoice overseas clients. Small value does not remove the filing duty.
Companies exporting both goods and services
Goods and software now sit under one form, so a company with mixed exports can keep one reporting discipline. Customs handles goods; services go to the bank or STPI.
Why it matters
Your bank needs it to close entries
Banks track each export against the foreign receipt in the RBI’s EDPMS. A missing declaration leaves the entry open and your remittances may attract questions.
One monthly filing, not one per invoice
A single EDF can cover all your service and software exports for the month.
FEMA exposure
FEMA contraventions can attract a penalty up to three times the sum involved where the amount is quantifiable. Accurate monthly reporting keeps you clear of it.
Documents required
Invoice records
- Tax invoices for the month
- Client names, countries and currencies
- Contract or work order for large services
Company records
- PAN and GST registration details
- STPI registration, if you hold one
- Bank AD code details and your bank contact
Receipts
- Foreign inward remittance advices (FIRC or bank credit advice)
- Receivable ageing for unpaid invoices
- Details of any set-off or third-party payment
How it works
Match invoices with remittances
We list each export invoice with client, amount and currency and match it with remittance advices.
Prepare one EDF for the month
We prepare one declaration covering all service and software exports invoiced in the month.
Submit to your bank or STPI
The EDF goes to your authorised dealer bank or STPI. We coordinate with them and answer queries, and your bank updates its records in EDPMS.
Chase unpaid invoices
We follow unpaid invoices against the realisation period and flag items that may need your bank’s extension.
Timelines
EDF due date
Within 30 days from the end of the month in which the invoice is raised. An invoice raised on 12 October 2026 falls due by 30 November 2026.
Realisation period
Proceeds are to be realised within 15 months of the invoice for services, and 18 months for INR-invoiced exports. Authorised dealers may grant extensions.
Effective date
The framework is in force from 1 October 2026. For earlier months, confirm with your bank or STPI which route applies to filings still pending.
What happens if you miss it
Open entries at the bank
If no EDF is filed, the export entry stays unmatched and the bank may ask questions on your next remittance.
FEMA penalty
Contraventions of FEMA can attract a penalty up to three times the amount involved where it is quantifiable, under Section 13.
Late filing
A late filing may need regularisation through your authorised dealer. We prepare the explanation for the bank.
Frequently asked questions
Has SOFTEX been discontinued?
Yes, for exports under the new framework. The RBI’s FEMA (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2026 apply from 1 October 2026 and use one Export Declaration Form for goods, services and software. If you hold older SOFTEX filings, we help you confirm with your bank or STPI how they are closed out.
Who files the EDF for software exports?
You, as the exporter, file it with your specified authority, which for software can be STPI or your authorised dealer bank. We prepare the declaration, coordinate with the bank or STPI and reply to queries. The bank then updates EDPMS, so you do not need to access it yourself.
What is the EDF due date for services?
The EDF is due within 30 days from the end of the month in which the invoice is raised. One declaration can cover all service and software exports of that month. An October 2026 invoice therefore needs filing by 30 November 2026. We keep a monthly calendar so dates do not slip.
Is STPI registration compulsory for software exporters?
The new framework allows more than one route, so STPI is not the only option for software declarations. Whether STPI registration is worth holding depends on other benefits you claim. We check your position before recommending anything and confirm the route with your bank.
How long do I have to bring the money into India?
The realisation period is 15 months from the invoice for services and 18 months for INR-invoiced exports, and authorised dealers can grant extensions. Track each invoice from the start. We maintain a receivable list and warn you well before the window closes.
Do freelancers need to file an EDF?
Yes, the framework covers service exports generally and does not exempt small values. A freelancer invoicing overseas clients can file one EDF a month through their bank. We prepare it from your invoices and remittance advices so the bank has what it needs.
What is the penalty for not filing?
FEMA allows a penalty up to three times the sum involved where the amount is quantifiable. Banks may question remittances and ask for regularisation. Filing on time avoids that, and if you are late, we help you approach the bank with a clear explanation.
Do I need GST registration to file?
Export of services is generally a taxable supply that qualifies as zero-rated, so most software exporters hold GST registration and file a letter of undertaking. We align the GST side with your EDF so invoices, refunds and foreign receipts tell the same story.
What it costs
Our fee plus the government fee that applies to your case, quoted before you commit. Tell us the situation and we will price it exactly.
Government cost for SOFTEX form filing under the new EDF: bank or remittance charges, if any, are set by your bank. Our fee covers monthly reconciliation, preparation and coordination with the bank or STPI.
Ready to begin?
Send us last month’s export invoices and remittance advices, and we will set up your monthly EDF routine.