The time limit prescribed for return of goods sent to job work under the exemption route is 1 year of being sent out (for inputs) and 3 years of being sent out (for capital goods). Therefore, if the inputs/ capital goods are returned to the principal after 1 year/ 3 years (as applicable), then such return of goods to the principal after the said period would be treated as ‘supply’. This time limit is not applicable to moulds and dies, jigs, fixtures and tools.
(ICAI FAQ PUBLICATION 06-09-2017 -: ITC in respect of goods sent for job work: FAQ NO.33)