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.
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.
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
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.
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
Visit DGFT Portal
Register on the DGFT website with a valid email and mobile number.
Login and Apply
Fill out the application form (ANF 2A) online through the IEC dashboard.
Upload Documents
Submit the required identity, address, and business proof documents.
Fee Payment
Pay the government fee (Rs. 500) through online modes.
Verification and Approval
Once verified, the IEC certificate is issued electronically to your registered email ID.
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 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.
Fillup From
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 |
