IEC Registration

Overview

The Import Export Code (IEC) is a code required by any person or business that imports goods into or exports goods and services from India. It is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The IEC is linked to the applicant's PAN and, once issued, is valid across all business locations without a need for periodic renewal, though DGFT requires it to be updated annually.

Objective

To obtain the code required to lawfully carry out import and export activities from India.

Characteristics

• Issued by the DGFT and linked to the applicant's PAN
• Required for clearing goods through customs and receiving or sending foreign payments
• One IEC covers all branches and units of the business
• Applied for online through the DGFT portal
• Needs to be updated on the DGFT portal each year to remain active

Eligibility

• Any individual, proprietorship, firm, LLP or company intending to import or export
• Applicants holding a valid PAN
• Businesses with a current bank account in the entity's name
• Applicants with a valid address and identity proof

Governing law

• Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992
• Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
• Foreign Trade Policy

The process

1. 1
   Document collection

   We gather your PAN, entity details, address proof and bank information.

2. 2
   Application preparation

   We complete the IEC application on the DGFT portal and attach the required documents.

3. 3
   Filing and payment

   We submit the application with the government fee and digital authentication.

4. 4
   Issuance

   We track the application and provide you the IEC once allotted by the DGFT.

Documents required

• PAN of the individual or entity
• Identity and address proof of the proprietor, partners or directors
• Proof of the business address
• Cancelled cheque or bank certificate of the entity's current account
• Incorporation certificate, partnership deed or proprietorship proof

Benefits

• Enables lawful import and export operations from India
• Required for customs clearance and cross-border payments
• Covers all branches under a single code
• Supports access to export benefits and schemes where eligible

Frequently asked questions