Apply for Import Export Code (IEC) Registration
The Government of India, through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and its Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), issues a unique ten-digit Import Export Code (IEC). It is mandatory for any individual or business entity to obtain an IEC if they wish to import or export goods and services from India to other countries or vice versa. In short, IEC registration is the primary license that enables cross-border trade for businesses and individuals in India.
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INTRODUCTION
What is an Importer Exporter Code (IEC)?
In today’s dynamic business environment, many businesses are steadily expanding their reach from local to global markets. To carry out import and export operations and establish a strong presence internationally, it is mandatory to obtain an Import Export Code (IEC). The Importer Exporter Code is a unique 10-digit identification number issued to businesses or individuals engaged in importing or exporting goods and services. The code is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. IEC registration is a one-time, lifetime registration—once obtained, it remains valid for the entity’s entire existence and does not require renewal. The process to apply for an IEC is fully online, simple, and quick, requiring only a few basic documents to complete the registration.
Advantage
Benefits of Importer Exporter Code (IEC)
Access Global Markets Easily
Holding a valid IEC is mandatory for any business or individual to legally import or export goods and services. It acts as a passport to enter international markets and expand the scope of your business globally. With an IEC, you can seamlessly take your products or services across borders and grow your business without limitations.
Quick and Simple Processing
The process of applying for an Importer Exporter Code is straightforward and hassle-free through the online application system. It generally takes only 3–4 working days to obtain your IEC. Once your application is approved and documents are verified, you can immediately download your e-IEC using the link provided by the DGFT.
No Compliance Burden
Once you receive your IEC, there are no additional compliance requirements—no annual filing, no returns, and no renewals. Unlike other tax registrations, the IEC is valid for a lifetime, making it a one-time hassle-free registration for your business.
Avail Government Benefits
Importers and exporters registered with an IEC become eligible for various government schemes and benefits. These include schemes and incentives provided by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Customs, Export Promotion Councils, and other government agencies, such as duty drawbacks, export subsidies, and reduced tariffs.
A LIST OF DOCUMENTS
📑 Documents Required for Import Export Code (IEC) Registration
✅ PAN Card
A scanned copy of the applicant’s individual PAN card (for proprietors) or the business entity’s PAN card (for companies, partnerships, LLPs, etc.).
✅ Address Proof
Any one of the following:
Sale deed
Rent agreement
Latest electricity bill
Telephone or mobile bill in the name of the applicant or business
✅ Cancelled Cheque / Bank Certificate
A cancelled cheque of the entity’s current account with the entity’s name pre-printed or a bank certificate in the prescribed format (Form ANF-2A(i)).
✅ PAN Card of Director / Partner
If applying as a company, LLP, or partnership firm, a copy of the PAN card of the director(s) or partner(s) is required.
✅ Certificate of Registration & Entity Documents
If applicable, provide supporting documents such as:
Partnership Deed (for partnerships)
Memorandum and Articles of Association (MoA & AoA) (for companies)
LLP Agreement (for LLPs)
Certificate of Incorporation or Registration Certificate of the entity
📌 When is the IEC Code Required?
For Import and Export of Goods in India
An Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is mandatory for any business or individual importing or exporting physical goods to or from India. Customs authorities will not clear the shipment without a valid IEC.
For Import and Export of Services in India
An IEC is required if an exporter is receiving foreign currency payments for services provided abroad and needs to remit or receive payments through authorized banks under FEMA guidelines.
At the Time of Shipment Processing
The IEC must be quoted during customs clearance for imports or exports. It is also required by banks for sending or receiving money in foreign currency for international trade transactions.
✅ Online Registration
Obtain Your IEC in 3 Simple Steps
1. Answer Quick Questions
Fill out our quick and easy online questionnaire — takes less than 10 minutes!
Provide your basic details and required documents.
Make a secure payment through our trusted payment gateways.
2. Our Experts Do the Work
A dedicated Relationship Manager will be assigned to guide you.
We will prepare and file your IEC application accurately.
We coordinate with DGFT to ensure your Import Export Code is allotted smoothly.
3. Receive Your IEC Code
Get your IEC certificate in just 3–4 working days!*
*Subject to Government processing timelines.
🔎 IEC Registration Process
📅 Day 1
Submit the required documents and details.
📅 Day 2 – 3
Application drafting, review, and preparation by our experts.
📅 Day 4 onwards
Filing of your online IEC registration application with DGFT.
Await Government processing and approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions before reaching out? Here are quick answers to some of the most common queries we receive about contacting us, consultations, and service inquiries.
IEC registration is mandatory in the following cases:
1️⃣ Any entity planning to engage in the import or export of goods from India.
2️⃣ In the case of services or technology, if the service provider wants to claim benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy, then IEC registration is compulsory.
No. An Import Export Code is not required for:
Import or export of goods strictly for personal use, not connected with trade or business.
Imports or exports by any Government ministry or department or notified charitable organization.
Any other category specifically exempted by the DGFT.
Yes. Any individual involved in import or export for business purposes can apply for an IEC. The application must be made online along with the required documents. If the applicant does not have a business current account, they may submit a cancelled cheque from their savings account instead.
Once allotted, an IEC is valid for a lifetime — unless it is surrendered or cancelled by the DGFT. There is no need for renewal.
No. Since the IEC is PAN-based, a single IEC is valid for all branches or units of the same entity under one PAN across India.
No. Only one IEC can be issued against a single PAN. If multiple IECs are inadvertently issued, the extra codes must be surrendered to the DGFT regional office.