How to Extend a Letter of Credit Expiry Date Without Losing Time
How exporters get a Letter of Credit expiry extended by amendment, and what else to extend with it.
Reviewed by LCCheck team (owner-approved) · 2026-10-12
Short answer
An expiry date can only be extended by an amendment that the issuing bank issues at the applicant's request and the beneficiary accepts (UCP 600 Art. 10). Ask early, and extend the latest shipment date at the same time if shipment is delayed. Article 29 only extends expiry to the next banking day when the bank is closed on the expiry date.
| How | Amendment (MT707) via applicant |
|---|---|
| Automatic extension | Only Art. 29(a) bank closure |
| Extend together | 44C shipment + 31D expiry |
Steps
- Ask the buyer as soon as delay is likely.
- Request new 31D and, if needed, new 44C.
- Check the presentation period still fits.
- Accept the amendment in writing.
Watch for
- Confirmation not extending automatically to the amendment.
- Amendment fees.
- Applicant using the request to change other terms.
Sources
- ICC — UCP 600 (Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits)
- Swift — MT700 Issue of a Documentary Credit (category 7 standards)
General guidance, not legal advice. Your bank examines documents independently.
Related guides
Review your LC requirements
Free snapshot in under a minute. No account needed.
Upload your Letter of Credit
PDF · up to 25 MB