IMPORT & EXPORT CODE (IEC)

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Import & Export Code (IEC) in India

Introduction to Import Export Code (IEC)

The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique registration number issued by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India. It is mandatory for any individual or business wishing to start import or export operations in India.

IEC registration is a key business identification document that enables companies to engage in global trade while complying with Indian regulatory requirements.


What is IEC Registration?

IEC registration is a legal authorization required to import or export goods and services across Indian borders. It is applicable to all types of traders including proprietorships, partnerships, LLPs, private limited companies, and more.

IEC is a one-time registration valid for a lifetime and does not require any renewal unless voluntarily canceled or updated.


Who Needs IEC?

IEC is required by:

  • Businesses engaged in import/export of goods or services

  • E-commerce exporters shipping products internationally

  • Individuals importing or exporting in their personal name (not for personal use)

  • Entities seeking benefits from DGFT, customs, or export promotion councils


Benefits of IEC Registration

  • Legal Authorization: Enables lawful import and export in India.

  • No Renewal Needed: IEC is valid for the lifetime of the business.

  • Global Market Access: Essential for international trading opportunities.

  • Government Benefits: Required to claim export incentives or duty drawbacks.

  • Banking Support: Required for receiving and sending foreign currency payments.


Documents Required for IEC Registration

For Individuals & Proprietorships:

  • PAN card of the applicant

  • Aadhaar card or passport or voter ID

  • Cancelled cheque or bank certificate

  • Address proof of the business

  • Digital photograph of the applicant

For Companies/Partnerships/LLPs:

  • PAN card of the business entity

  • Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed / LLP Agreement

  • Address proof of the business

  • Cancelled cheque or bank certificate

  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

  • Identity and address proof of directors or partners


Step-by-Step Procedure for IEC Registration in India

  1. Visit DGFT Portal

    • Register on the DGFT website with a valid email and mobile number.

  2. Login and Apply

    • Fill out the application form (ANF 2A) online through the IEC dashboard.

  3. Upload Documents

    • Submit the required identity, address, and business proof documents.

  4. Fee Payment

    • Pay the government fee (Rs. 500) through online modes.

  5. Verification and Approval

    • Once verified, the IEC certificate is issued electronically to your registered email ID.


Important Notes on IEC

  • IEC is mandatory for all cross-border trade transactions.

  • One PAN can have only one IEC code.

  • For service exporters, IEC is required only when incentives or duty drawbacks are claimed.

  • Businesses must update IEC details annually on the DGFT portal to keep the code active.

  • If the business has GST, then the IEC will be the same as the PAN.


IEC Modification and Cancellation

  • IEC can be modified through the DGFT portal to update name, address, or contact details.

  • If the business is discontinued, the IEC can be voluntarily surrendered or canceled online.


Why Choose Bharat eFiling Point for IEC Registration?

  • End-to-end support from registration to compliance

  • PAN-India service with document pickup and digital filing

  • Guidance on foreign trade procedures and benefits

  • Affordable and transparent pricing

  • Fast-track IEC certificate delivery

IEC registration is the first and most crucial step for any business planning to engage in international trade from India. Whether you are exporting handicrafts, IT services, food products, or importing machinery or equipment, IEC ensures your business operates legally and benefits from global opportunities.

Documents Required Udyam Registration vs FSSAI vs APEDA vs 80G & 12A vs IEC vs DSC

FEATURES Udyam Registration FSSAI APEDA 80G & 12A IEC DSC
DOCUMENTS Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Bank Account Details, Business Address Proof, Details of Major Business Activities, GSTIN. Form A Photo ID Proof Address Proof, Food Safety Management Plan, Declaration Form, Authority Letter, Photo identity of promoters of the food business, Form B, Blueprint/layout plan of the processing unit. APEDA Enrollment Application Form, Bank Certificate, Import-Export Code (IEC), Company’s Bank Statements, Self-Certified Copy of Import-Export Code, Self-Attested Copy of the Firm’s Incorporation, Details of Registered Office, Head Office, and Branch Office, Duly Signed and Sealed Copy of Application Form. NGO/Trust PAN Card, Registration Certificate, Bye-Laws/Memorandum of Association (MoA), Trust Deed (for Trusts), Audit Reports, KYC Documents, List of Welfare Activities, Details of Board Members, Donor List, Books of Accounts & Income Tax Return Documents. Proof of Registration, Address Proof, Proof of the Firm’s Bank Account, Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), PAN Card, Identity Proof, Proof of Constitution of Business, if any - Additional Documents. Aadhaar (eKYC Service), Telephone Bill, Electricity Bill, Water Bill, Gas connection, Bank Statements signed by the bank, Service Tax/VAT Tax/Sales Tax registration certificate, Driving License (DL)/ Registration certificate (RC).
Time 2-5 working days 15-60 working days 4-7 working days 12-22 working days 10-15 working days 3-7 working days

Documents Required for Import & Export Code (IEC) in India

The documents required for Import & Export Code (IEC) registration in India include:

  1. Copy of the PAN Card.
  2. Proof of address of the business.
  3. Constitution of the business (Partnership deed, Incorporation documents, etc.).
  4. Scanned documents for address proof (in the name of the applicant firm).
  5. No objection certificate (NOC) by the firm premises owner if the address proof is not in the name of the applicant firm.

These documents are essential for obtaining an Import & Export Code (IEC) in India, which is a crucial business identification number required for import into or export from India.

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Import & Export Code (IEC) FAQ’s

What is an IEC?

IEC, or Importer Exporter Code, is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industries, Government of India. It is mandatory for companies and businesses engaged in importing or exporting goods and services from India.

Why is IEC required?

IEC is required for anyone involved in importing or exporting goods and services to or from India. It serves as a primary document for recognition by the Government of India as an Exporter/Importer.

Who needs to apply for IEC registration?

Any individual or business entity involved in importing or exporting goods and services from India needs to apply for IEC. This applies to both manufacturers and traders engaged in international trade.

How can I apply for IEC registration?

The application for IEC registration can be made online through the DGFT website. Applicants need to provide necessary details, complete the application form, and submit the required documents.

What documents are required for IEC registration?

The documents required typically include proof of identity, proof of address, bank account details, certificate of incorporation or partnership deed (for companies or partnerships), and other supporting documents as specified by the DGFT.

Is there a fee for IEC registration?

Yes, there is a fee associated with IEC registration. The fee varies depending on the category of the applicant (individual or entity) and is payable online during the application process.

How long does it take to obtain the IEC?

The processing time for IEC registration can vary, but it is typically issued within 1-2 working days after submission of the complete application and required documents.

Can the IEC be modified or updated?

Yes, certain modifications or updates to the IEC information can be made after registration. Changes such as the name, address, bank account details, or other particulars can be updated by filing the necessary application with the DGFT.

Is the IEC valid for a lifetime?

Yes, the IEC is generally valid for the lifetime of the entity or individual. It does not require renewal or periodic revalidation unless any modification or update is required.

Can IEC be canceled or surrendered?

Yes, an IEC can be canceled or surrendered if the entity or individual no longer intends to engage in import-export activities. The cancellation or surrender process can be initiated by submitting the necessary application to the DGFT.

Is IEC required for import or export of goods for personal use?

IEC is mandatory only for business and commercial purposes. There is no need for IEC to import or export goods for personal use.

Do government departments require IEC?

State government or Central government departments are not required to take IEC registration. They are allotted a fixed number which is quoted for any such transactions.

Is IEC required if you have GST?

Every person who imports or exports has to take IEC registration. It is mandatory to register a PAN with DGFT department if the business involves imports or exports even if you have registered under GST.

Import & Export Code (IEC) in State