Import Export Code (IEC) Registration
A 10-digit business identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992 — mandatory for every business importing or exporting goods and services from India. PAN-based, lifetime valid, and delivered in 3–5 working days.
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What is Import Export Code (IEC)?
The Import Export Code (IEC) is a unique 10-digit registration number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, under the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992. It is a mandatory prerequisite for any business or individual seeking to import or export goods and services from India — without a valid IEC, customs authorities will not clear shipments and banks will not process cross-border payments or receive foreign remittances.
The IEC is linked to the applicant’s PAN and, once issued, remains valid for the lifetime of the business with no renewal fee. However, every holder must electronically confirm or update their IEC details on the DGFT portal each year — typically between April and June — to keep the code active. Proprietorships, partnership firms, LLPs, companies, and individuals engaged in international trade can all obtain an IEC.
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Key Benefits of IEC Registration
Legal Authorisation to Trade
IEC gives your business the legal authority to import and export goods and services worldwide, in full compliance with the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992.
Global Business Expansion
Open the door to international markets and reach overseas customers, suppliers, and partners with a recognised trade credential.
Smooth Customs Clearance
The IEC simplifies import and export transactions, enabling faster clearance of shipments through Indian customs.
Access to Export Benefits
Claim government incentives and schemes such as RODTEP, Advance Authorisation, and EPCG offered to registered exporters.
Lifetime Validity
Once issued, the IEC remains valid for the lifetime of the business with no renewal fee — subject only to a simple annual update on the DGFT portal.
Enhanced Business Credibility
An IEC builds trust with international buyers, suppliers, and financial institutions, strengthening every cross-border relationship.
Seamless Foreign Payments
Receive payments from overseas clients and remit funds for imports smoothly through the banking channel via SWIFT.
Fuels Business Growth
International trade opportunities help diversify revenue, widen your customer base, and expand your market reach.
Eligibility & Requirements
How to Get IEC Registration
IEC registration is a fully online process filed on the DGFT portal (dgft.gov.in). Applications are validated against PAN and, in most cases, the code is issued automatically without physical documentation.
1Step 1: Register on the DGFT Portal
Create an account on dgft.gov.in using the business PAN, registered email ID, and mobile number, and verify via OTP.
2Step 2: Complete the IEC Application (ANF-2A)
Fill in the online IEC application with entity details, proprietor / director / partner information, and current bank account particulars.
3Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents
Attach scanned copies of the PAN, address proof, and cancelled cheque or bank certificate as prescribed.
4Step 4: Pay the Government Fee
Pay the ₹500 application fee online through the DGFT portal, then sign the application using DSC or Aadhaar e-Sign.
5Step 5: IEC Issued by DGFT
DGFT generates the 10-digit IEC — usually instantly or within a couple of working days — and the certificate is downloadable from the portal.
IEC registration is typically completed within 3–5 working days. DGFT processes most applications automatically once documents and payment are in order.
Documents Required
Business Identity
- PAN Card of the Company / LLP / Firm / Individual
- Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed / GST Certificate
- Address proof of the business premises
Authorised Signatory
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or Aadhaar e-Sign
Bank Details
- Cancelled cheque of the current account
- Bank certificate confirming account details
- IFSC code of the branch
Post-Registration Compliance
Annual IEC Updation
Even though the IEC is lifetime valid, every holder must confirm or update their IEC details on the DGFT portal each year (typically April–June). An IEC not updated within the window is liable to be deactivated until the update is filed.
RBI / FEMA Reporting
Foreign currency received against exports must be reported to the RBI through your bank within the timelines prescribed under FEMA.
Export Documentation
Maintain shipping bills, commercial invoices, packing lists, and e-BRCs (Bank Realisation Certificates) for every import and export transaction.
Foreign Trade Policy Schemes
Use your IEC to avail RODTEP, Advance Authorisation, EPCG, and other export-promotion schemes under the prevailing Foreign Trade Policy.
Common Questions
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