Apply Now! Customs Chennai Recruitment 2025

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

✅ Total Vacancies: 2 Group C positions in Departmental Canteen
✅ Posts Available: Halwai Cum-Cook, Assistant Halwai Cum-Cook
✅ Qualification: 10th Pass + Catering Diploma/Certificate required
✅ Application Mode: Offline (Postal Application only)
✅ Age Limit: 18-25 years as on closing date
✅ Salary Range: Rs. 19,900 – Rs. 21,700 per month (7th Pay Commission)
✅ Location: Chennai Custom House, Rajaji Salai, Chennai – 600001
✅ No Application Fee: Free to apply for all candidates

Overview of Customs Chennai Recruitment 2025

The Commissioner of Customs, Chennai has released an official recruitment notification for 2 Group C cadre positions (Halwai Cum-Cook and Assistant Halwai Cum-Cook) for the Departmental Canteen in December 2025. This presents an excellent opportunity for job seekers in Tamil Nadu, particularly in Chennai, to secure a stable central government position with competitive salary and benefits.

The recruitment is being conducted for filling vacancies in the Departmental Canteen of Chennai Customs Zone, under the jurisdiction of the Principal Chief Commissioner of Customs. According to the official Chennai Customs website, eligible candidates can apply through the prescribed offline mode before the deadline.

Chennai Customs Zone operates under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), Ministry of Finance, Government of India. The organization plays a crucial role in customs clearance, trade facilitation, and revenue collection at one of India’s busiest ports.

Important Dates for Customs Chennai Recruitment 2025

Understanding the timeline is crucial for successful application submission. Here are the key dates candidates must remember:

Event	Date
Notification Release Date	December 2025
Application Start Date	After notification release
Last Date for Application Submission	As mentioned in official notification
Mode of Application Submission	By Speed Post / Ordinary Post only
Trade/Skill Test Date	Will be notified separately
Document Verification	After Trade/Skill Test
Final Selection Results	To be announced on official website

Important Note: Candidates must check the official notification for exact closing date. Applications must be sent by Speed Post or Ordinary Post only to the address mentioned in the notification.

Vacancy Details: Post-wise Breakdown

Customs Chennai Recruitment 2025 Group C Halwai Cum-Cook vacancy details and salary structure for Chennai Customs jobs

Current Openings in Chennai Customs 2025

The Chennai Customs Department has announced vacancies for Group C positions in the Departmental Canteen. Here’s the detailed breakdown:

S.No	Post Name	Total Vacancies	Category Distribution	Pay Scale (7th CPC)
1	Halwai Cum-Cook	01	01 – UR (Unreserved)	Rs. 21,700 – Rs. 69,100 (Pay Level 3)
2	Assistant Halwai Cum-Cook	01	01 – UR (Unreserved)	Rs. 19,900 – Rs. 63,200 (Pay Level 2)

Total Positions: 2 Posts

According to the official notification, these are Group C cadre positions in the departmental establishment of Chennai Customs Zone, offering stable central government employment with various benefits.

Educational Qualification Requirements

Post-wise Qualification Criteria

Different positions have specific educational and skill requirements as per the official notification:

1. Halwai Cum-Cook (Post 1)

Essential & Desirable Qualification:

(a) Educational Qualification:

10th Class pass with certificate or Diploma in catering from a recognized institute

(b) Experience Required:

Two years experience in a Government Department Undertaking

(c) Selection Process:

A Trade Skill Test for cooking shall be conducted to assess suitability of the candidate

Pay Scale:

Pay Level 3 in Pay Matrix (Rs. 21,700-69,100) of 7th CPC
Equivalent to PB-1 Rs.5200-20200 with Grade Pay Rs.2000/- of 6th CPC

2. Assistant Halwai Cum-Cook (Post 2)

Essential & Desirable Qualification:

(a) Educational Qualification:

10th class pass from a recognized Board with a Certificate or Diploma in catering from a recognized institute

(b) Experience Required:

One year experience in cooking

(c) Selection Process:

A Trade Skill Test for cooking including maintenance of hygiene shall be conducted by the Departmental Promotion Committee to assess the suitability of the candidate

Pay Scale:

Pay Level 2 in Pay Matrix (Rs. 19,900-63,200) of 7th CPC
Equivalent to PB-1 Rs.5200-20200 with Grade Pay Rs.1900/- of 6th CPC

Important: Candidates with higher qualification may also apply, and possessing additional certifications in relevant fields will be an added advantage.

Age Limit and Relaxation Norms

Age Criteria for Customs Chennai Recruitment 2025

Age Limit as per Official Notification:

Minimum Age: 18 years
Maximum Age: 25 years
Age Calculation Date: As on closing date of receipt of applications
Applicable for: Both posts at Sl. No. 1 and 2 (Halwai Cum-Cook and Assistant Halwai Cum-Cook)

Age Relaxation as per Government Norms

Category	Age Relaxation
SC/ST Candidates	5 years
OBC Candidates (Non-Creamy Layer)	3 years
PwBD (General)	10 years
PwBD (OBC)	13 years
PwBD (SC/ST)	15 years
Ex-Servicemen	As per Government rules
Departmental Candidates	Up to 40 years (with 3 years regular service)

Note: Age relaxation is applicable as per central government guidelines and candidates must provide valid certificates for claiming relaxation benefits.

Salary Structure and Benefits

Chennai Customs Group C recruitment 2025 salary structure with 7th CPC pay scale and central government benefits for Halwai posts

Pay Scale Details (7th Pay Commission)

The Chennai Customs Department offers competitive compensation packages aligned with 7th Central Pay Commission recommendations:

Detailed Salary Breakdown by Post

Post	Pay Level (7th CPC)	Basic Pay	Pay Matrix Range	6th CPC Equivalent
Halwai Cum-Cook	Level 3	Rs. 21,700	Rs. 21,700 – Rs. 69,100	PB-1 Rs.5200-20200 + GP Rs.2000/-
Assistant Halwai Cum-Cook	Level 2	Rs. 19,900	Rs. 19,900 – Rs. 63,200	PB-1 Rs.5200-20200 + GP Rs.1900/-

Additional Benefits and Allowances

Central Government Benefits Include:

✅ House Rent Allowance (HRA) – Up to 27% of Basic Pay in metro cities
✅ Transport Allowance (TA) – As per government norms
✅ Dearness Allowance (DA) – Currently at 50% (revised bi-annually)
✅ Medical Benefits – Full medical coverage for employee and family
✅ Leave Travel Concession (LTC) – Once in 2 years
✅ Pension Benefits – Under National Pension System (NPS)
✅ Gratuity – As per service rules
✅ Group Insurance Scheme
✅ Festival Advance and Leave Encashment
✅ Annual Increment – 3% of Basic Pay

In-hand Salary: After all deductions, candidates can expect an initial in-hand salary ranging from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 35,000 per month depending on the post and allowances applicable in Chennai.

Selection Process and Examination Pattern

Multi-Stage Selection Procedure

The Chennai Customs Department follows a comprehensive selection process to ensure merit-based recruitment:

Stage 1: Application Screening

Verification of educational qualifications
Checking age criteria compliance
Validation of category certificates (if applicable)
Document authenticity verification

Stage 2: Written Examination

Exam Pattern:

Mode: Offline (Pen and Paper)
Duration: 2-3 hours
Total Marks: 100
Sections: General Knowledge, Reasoning, Numerical Ability, English
Negative Marking: May be applicable (check official notification)

Syllabus Coverage:

General Awareness and Current Affairs
Basic Mathematics and Numerical Ability
Reasoning and Mental Ability
English Language Comprehension
Job-specific knowledge

Stage 3: Trade/Skill Test

The selection process includes Written Exam, Trade/Skill Test, and Document Verification

For Cooking Posts:

Practical cooking test
Menu preparation assessment
Kitchen hygiene evaluation
Time management in cooking

For Clerk Post:

Typing speed test (English/Tamil)
Computer proficiency test
Basic MS Office skills

For Havaldar:

Physical fitness test
Cycling proficiency test
Basic security awareness

Stage 4: Document Verification

Shortlisted candidates must appear with original documents:

Educational certificates
Date of birth proof
Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC)
Experience certificates
Identity proof (Aadhar/PAN/Voter ID)
Recent passport-sized photographs

Stage 5: Medical Examination

Final selected candidates undergo medical fitness examination as per government standards.

Important: No TA/DA (Travel Allowance/Daily Allowance) will be provided for attending tests, and candidates must make their own arrangements.

Application Fee Structure

Fee Details for Different Categories

Good News for Applicants:

There is NO application fee for Chennai Customs Recruitment 2025. This applies to all categories of candidates including General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, and PwBD candidates.

Category	Application Fee	Payment Mode
General/OBC	NIL	Not Applicable
SC/ST	NIL	Not Applicable
EWS	NIL	Not Applicable
PwBD	NIL	Not Applicable
Women Candidates	NIL	Not Applicable

Note: While there’s no application fee, candidates need to bear postal charges for sending application forms to the Chennai Customs Office.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Application Process

Step-by-step offline application process for Customs Chennai Recruitment 2025 Group C posts - complete guide for Chennai government jobs

Detailed Application Procedure

The application process for Customs Chennai Recruitment 2025 is completely offline. Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Download Application Form

Visit the official Chennai Customs website: https://chennaicustoms.gov.in/
Navigate to “Recruitment” or “Career” section
Find the latest notification dated December 2025
Download the official notification PDF: Download Notification
Download the application form: Download Application Form

Step 2: Fill Application Form Carefully

Use CAPITAL LETTERS only
Fill all mandatory fields
Ensure no overwriting or cutting
Use black or blue pen only
Provide accurate mobile number and email address

Step 3: Attach Required Documents

Documents Checklist:

Recent passport-sized photograph (3 copies)
Self-attested copy of 10th certificate (Date of Birth proof)
Self-attested copy of educational qualification certificates
Self-attested copy of experience certificates (if applicable)
Self-attested copy of category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS)
Self-attested copy of PwBD certificate (if applicable)
Self-attested copy of NOC from current employer (for government servants)

Step 4: Prepare Envelope

Use standard size envelope (28 cm x 13 cm)
Write on envelope in BOLD LETTERS:
- “APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF [POST NAME]”
- “CATEGORY: [YOUR CATEGORY]”
- Write this on left side top corner of envelope

Step 5: Submit Application

Postal Address:

The Additional Commissioner of Customs (Establishment)
Office of the Commissioner of Customs (General)
Custom House, No. 60, Rajaji Salai
Chennai - 600001
Tamil Nadu, India

Submission Guidelines:

Applications must be sent by Speed Post or Ordinary Post only
Do NOT send via courier or hand delivery
Send separate applications for each post in separate envelopes
Keep acknowledgment receipt for future reference
Deadline: Must reach before December 31, 2025

Step 6: Track Your Application

Note down the postal tracking number
Keep photocopy of filled application form
Save all payment receipts
Regularly check official website for updates

Important Instructions:

Separate application form should be submitted for each post in separate envelopes
Incomplete applications will be rejected
Canvassing in any form will be a disqualification
Keep checking official website for admit card and result updates

Required Documents Checklist

Essential Documents for Application

Prepare these documents before filling the application:

Primary Documents (Mandatory)

Age Proof:
- 10th Standard Certificate/Mark Sheet (Preferred)
- Birth Certificate
- School Leaving Certificate
Educational Qualification:
- 10th Standard Certificate
- Diploma Certificate (for relevant posts)
- Mark sheets of all qualifying examinations
Experience Certificates:
- Service certificate from previous employer
- Experience certificate mentioning duration and designation
- Relieving letter (if applicable)
Category Certificates:
- SC/ST Certificate (issued by competent authority)
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) Certificate valid for current year
- EWS Certificate (if applicable)
- PwBD Certificate (minimum 40% disability)
Identity Proof:
- Aadhar Card
- PAN Card
- Voter ID Card
- Driving License
Photographs:
- 3 recent passport-sized color photographs
- Same as uploaded on application form
- White background preferred

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

For Government Employees: NOC Certificate from the Head of the Department that no disciplinary/vigilance case is pending
For Ex-Servicemen: Discharge certificate and pension documents
For Domicile: Permanent address proof
Character Certificate: From Gazetted Officer or reputed person

Document Preparation Tips:

All copies must be self-attested
Ensure documents are clear and readable
Arrange documents in chronological order
Keep 2 sets ready – one for application, one for interview
Original documents required during document verification

Preparation Strategy and Tips

How to Prepare for Chennai Customs Recruitment 2025

For Written Examination

1. Understand the Syllabus:

Download previous year question papers (if available)
Study the exam pattern mentioned in notification
Focus on high-weightage topics

2. Subject-wise Preparation:

General Knowledge & Current Affairs:

Read daily newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express)
Follow current affairs apps and websites
Focus on Customs and indirect tax-related news
Study about CBIC, Ministry of Finance initiatives

Reasoning & Mental Ability:

Practice puzzles and logical reasoning questions
Solve series, coding-decoding problems
Work on analytical ability
Time yourself while practicing

Numerical Ability:

Master basic arithmetic operations
Practice percentage, ratio, and proportion
Solve data interpretation questions
Work on speed and accuracy

English Language:

Improve vocabulary daily
Practice grammar rules
Read comprehension passages
Work on error detection

3. Time Management:

Allocate specific hours daily for preparation
Create a realistic study timetable
Take regular mock tests
Analyze your performance

For Trade/Skill Test

For Cooking Posts (Both Positions):

Practice various cooking techniques and recipes
Learn menu planning and food preparation
Master hygiene and food safety protocols
Time your cooking preparations efficiently
Stay updated with modern cooking methods
Practice maintaining cleanliness standards
Prepare for practical demonstration of cooking skills

Selection Process for Cooking Positions:

Halwai Cum-Cook: A Trade Skill Test for cooking shall be conducted to assess suitability
Assistant Halwai Cum-Cook: A Trade Skill Test for cooking including maintenance of hygiene shall be conducted by the Departmental Promotion Committee

General Preparation Tips

Start preparation immediately after applying
Join online study groups for government exams
Refer to standard preparation books
Stay motivated and consistent
Take care of health during preparation
Keep all documents ready for test day

Important Instructions for Candidates

Critical Points to Remember

Before Applying

✅ Read the complete official notification thoroughly
✅ Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria
✅ Download and print application form correctly
✅ Gather all required documents
✅ Fill form in prescribed format only
✅ Double-check all entries for accuracy

During Application

✅ Use only black/blue pen for filling form
✅ Write clearly in CAPITAL LETTERS
✅ Paste recent passport-sized photographs
✅ Self-attest all document copies
✅ Use proper envelope size as specified
✅ Write complete postal address correctly

After Applying

✅ Keep acknowledgment receipt safe
✅ Note down application reference number
✅ Maintain photocopy of application
✅ Regularly check official website for updates
✅ Keep mobile and email active
✅ Prepare for written examination/skill test

Special Instructions

Serving Government Candidates should apply through Proper Channel with a NOC Certificate
Candidates with higher qualification may also apply
The Department reserves the right to extend the last date for submission of application, if required
The Department reserves its right to accept or reject the candidature of any applicant and/or to cancel the recruitment process at any stage without assigning any reason

During Examination/Test

✅ Reach exam center well in advance
✅ Carry admit card and photo ID proof
✅ Follow all examination rules
✅ No TA/DA will be provided
✅ Arrange your own accommodation if needed
✅ Maintain discipline and decorum

Official Website and Contact Information

Important Links and Contact Details

Official Website

Chennai Customs Zone Official Website: https://chennaicustoms.gov.in/

Direct Links for Application

Official Notification PDF: Download Notification
Application Form PDF: Download Application Form
Recruitment Updates: Check the Recruitment/Career section on official website

Contact Information

Postal Address:

The Additional Commissioner of Customs (Establishment)
Office of the Commissioner of Customs (General)
Custom House, No. 60, Rajaji Salai
Chennai - 600001
Tamil Nadu, India

Phone Numbers:

Main Office: 044-25246800, 4222
For Recruitment Queries: Contact during office hours (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

Email: Check official website for email contact

Working Days: Monday to Friday (except public holidays)

For Queries and Clarifications

Visit official website regularly for updates
Hall Tickets will be sent by Speed Post and updates will be available on the Chennai Customs Website
Check announcements section for important notices
Results will not be published in Newspapers, only on official website

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Application Errors That Can Lead to Rejection

During Form Filling

❌ Mistake 1: Providing incorrect personal details ✅ Solution: Cross-verify all information with original documents

❌ Mistake 2: Not attaching required documents ✅ Solution: Use the checklist and attach all mandatory documents

❌ Mistake 3: Poor quality photographs ✅ Solution: Use recent, clear passport-sized photos with white background

❌ Mistake 4: Overwriting or cutting in application form ✅ Solution: Fill carefully or use a fresh form if mistakes occur

❌ Mistake 5: Not mentioning category clearly ✅ Solution: Clearly mark your category on application and envelope

During Submission

❌ Mistake 6: Sending application via courier ✅ Solution: Send only through Speed Post or Ordinary Post as specified

❌ Mistake 7: Missing the application deadline ✅ Solution: Submit at least 5-7 days before last date

❌ Mistake 8: Not writing post name on envelope ✅ Solution: Clearly mention post name and category on envelope top left

❌ Mistake 9: Sending single application for multiple posts ✅ Solution: Submit separate applications in separate envelopes

❌ Mistake 10: Incomplete postal address on application ✅ Solution: Provide complete, correct address with PIN code

General Mistakes

❌ Not reading official notification completely ❌ Assuming eligibility without verification ❌ Providing false information or certificates ❌ Missing important updates on official website ❌ Not keeping application proof/acknowledgment

Remember: Even minor errors can lead to application rejection, so be extremely careful while filling and submitting your application.

Career Growth and Prospects

Future Opportunities in Chennai Customs

Working with Chennai Customs offers excellent career growth opportunities:

Promotion Prospects

Career Progression Path:

Group C Entry Level → Regular performance reviews
Departmental Examinations → Eligible after 5 years of service
Promotion to Group B → Through internal competitive exams
Senior Positions → Based on experience and performance
Group A Services → Through UPSC examinations (eligible after relevant experience)

Skill Development

Regular training programs by CBIC
Exposure to customs procedures and regulations
Computer and digital systems training
Leadership development programs
Specialized workshops and seminars

Job Security and Benefits

✅ Permanent central government position
✅ Job security with pension benefits
✅ Regular salary increments
✅ Medical and housing benefits
✅ Work-life balance
✅ Retirement benefits including gratuity and pension

Additional Opportunities

Transfer options to other customs locations across India
Opportunity to work at India’s major ports and airports
Exposure to international trade and commerce
Networking with customs and trade professionals
Continuous learning environment

Why Choose Chennai Customs?

Advantages of Working with Chennai Customs

1. Prestigious Organization: Chennai Customs is one of India’s premier customs zones, handling significant international trade at Chennai Port, one of the country’s busiest ports.

2. Strategic Location: Working in Chennai offers:

Metropolitan city advantages
Better educational facilities for family
Good healthcare infrastructure
Excellent connectivity
Cultural and recreational opportunities

3. Professional Growth:

Exposure to modern customs procedures
Interaction with international trade community
Learning about import-export regulations
Working with advanced digital systems
Networking opportunities

4. Work Environment:

Professional work culture
Structured working hours
Modern office infrastructure
Supportive management
Team-oriented approach

5. Financial Stability:

Competitive salary as per 7th CPC
Regular increments and allowances
Pension security
Medical benefits for entire family
Various government schemes access

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the last date to apply for Customs Chennai Recruitment 2025?

Answer: The last date to submit applications is mentioned in the official notification available at Chennai Customs official website. Applications must reach the specified address before the closing date. Late applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.

Q2: Is there any application fee for Chennai Customs Recruitment 2025?

Answer: No, there is no application fee for any category of candidates (General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, or PwBD). However, candidates need to bear postal charges for sending the application.

Q3: Can I apply online for these positions?

Answer: No, the application process is completely offline. Candidates must download the application form, fill it manually, and send it by Speed Post or Ordinary Post to the specified address.

Q4: What is the salary for Group C posts in Chennai Customs?

Answer: The salary for Halwai Cum-Cook is Rs. 21,700 per month (Pay Level 3) and for Assistant Halwai Cum-Cook is Rs. 19,900 per month (Pay Level 2) as basic pay as per 7th Pay Commission. With allowances like HRA, DA, and TA, the gross salary can be Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 40,000 per month depending on the post and location.

Q5: Is experience mandatory for all posts?

Answer: Yes, experience is mandatory for both posts. Halwai Cum-Cook requires 2 years of experience in a Government Department Undertaking, while Assistant Halwai Cum-Cook requires 1 year of experience in cooking. Both posts also require a certificate or diploma in catering along with 10th class pass.

Q6: Can candidates from outside Tamil Nadu apply?

Answer: Yes, candidates from any state in India can apply as long as they meet the eligibility criteria mentioned in the official notification. There is no domicile restriction.

Q7: Will travel allowance be provided for tests and interviews?

Answer: No, candidates will not receive any Travel Allowance (TA) or Daily Allowance (DA) for attending written tests, skill tests, or document verification. Candidates must arrange their own travel and accommodation.

Q8: How will I know if my application is accepted?

Answer: After the application deadline, the department will shortlist eligible candidates based on the eligibility criteria. Shortlisted candidates will receive admit cards by Speed Post and updates will be published on the official website.

Q9: Can I apply for multiple posts?

Answer: Yes, eligible candidates can apply for multiple posts. However, you must submit separate application forms in separate envelopes for each post, clearly mentioning the post name on each envelope.

Q10: What documents are required during document verification?

Answer: You need to bring original documents including educational certificates, experience certificates, category certificates (if applicable), age proof, identity proof, and recent photographs. Failure to produce original documents may lead to disqualification.

Q11: Is there any negative marking in the written examination?

Answer: The details about negative marking will be mentioned in the admit card or detailed examination notification. Candidates should check the official notification carefully for exam pattern details.

Q12: Can government employees apply for these positions?

Answer: Yes, government employees can apply but they must apply through proper channel and submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current Head of Department certifying that no disciplinary or vigilance case is pending against them.

Q13: What is the selection process for these posts?

Answer: The selection process includes: (1) Application Screening, (2) Written Examination, (3) Trade/Skill Test, (4) Document Verification, and (5) Medical Examination. Final selection is based on performance in all stages.

Q14: Will the results be published in newspapers?

Answer: No, results and all updates will be published only on the official Chennai Customs website (https://chennaicustoms.gov.in/). No separate communication through newspapers will be made.

Q15: Can I edit my application after submission?

Answer: No, once submitted via post, the application cannot be edited. Therefore, candidates must fill all details carefully and verify before sending the application.

Conclusion

The Customs Chennai Recruitment 2025 presents a golden opportunity for job seekers looking for stable central government employment in Tamil Nadu. With 2 Group C positions available for cooking roles (Halwai Cum-Cook and Assistant Halwai Cum-Cook) in the Departmental Canteen, this recruitment offers competitive salaries, job security, and excellent career growth prospects.

Key Highlights to Remember:

✅ No application fee for any category
✅ Offline application process – simple and transparent
✅ Attractive salary as per 7th Pay Commission
✅ Complete job security with central government benefits
✅ Clear career progression opportunities

The application deadline is approaching. Eligible candidates should download the application form from the official website, prepare all required documents, and submit their applications well before the deadline mentioned in the official notification.

Important Resources:

Don’t miss this opportunity to build a rewarding career with one of India’s premier customs organizations. Start your application process today and take the first step toward a secure and prosperous future with Chennai Customs!

Best of luck with your application!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification and website for the most accurate and updated information. The author and publisher are not responsible for any discrepancies or changes in the recruitment process.

Stay Updated: Keep checking the official Chennai Customs website regularly for latest updates, admit cards, and results.