IEC Registration Online — Import Export Code in 1–3 Days
Get your Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT with expert CA support. Mandatory for all importers, exporters, and international service providers.
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IEC Registration — Quick Highlights
| Full Form | Import Export Code (IEC) |
| Issuing Authority | DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) |
| Validity | Lifetime — No Renewal Required |
| Who Needs It | All Importers & Exporters of Goods/Services |
| Format | 10-Digit Code (Same as Business PAN) |
| Processing Time | 1–3 Working Days |
| Annual Update | Mandatory (April–June each year) |
| Government Fee | ₹500 (DGFT portal fee) |
| Mode of Filing | Online via DGFT Portal (dgft.gov.in) |
| Required For | Customs Clearance, FIRC, Bank Remittances |
What is IEC (Import Export Code)?
The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It is the primary document required for engaging in international trade — importing goods into India or exporting goods out of India.
IEC is linked to the PAN of the applicant and is valid for the lifetime of the business. It must be quoted in all shipping bills, bills of entry, bank remittances involving foreign currency, and DGFT scheme applications.
Since 2021, DGFT has mandated annual updates of IEC data on the portal (free of charge) between April and June each year. Failure to complete this update results in IEC deactivation, which halts all import/export operations.
Benefits of IEC Registration
Global Trade
Export your products worldwide and import goods from any country. IEC is the passport to international trade.
Export Benefits & Incentives
Access MEIS, RoDTEP, advance authorization, and other export promotion schemes — all require valid IEC.
Customs Clearance
IEC is mandatory for customs clearance at ports, airports, and inland container depots.
Forex Remittances
Banks require IEC for receiving foreign currency payments (FIRC) and making outward remittances.
E-Commerce Exports
Required for exporting on Amazon Global, eBay, Etsy, and other international e-commerce platforms.
No Turnover Limit
IEC is required regardless of turnover or business size. Even first-time exporters need it.
DGFT Scheme Access
Access DGFT licensing schemes — advance authorization, EPCG, DFIA — only available with valid IEC.
Lifetime Validity
IEC is valid for the lifetime of the business. Only an annual update (free) is required.
Who Needs IEC Registration?
Must Have IEC
- Any person or company importing goods into India
- Any person or company exporting goods from India
- Businesses exporting services (consultants, software, IT services, professionals)
- E-commerce sellers exporting through international platforms
- Companies receiving foreign currency for services rendered
- Importers of machinery, raw materials, equipment, or finished goods
Exempt from IEC (Specific Categories)
- Imports/exports for personal use (not for commercial purpose)
- Central Government / State Governments (for non-commercial purposes)
- Importers/exporters notified by DGFT as IEC-exempt
Documents Required for IEC Registration
All Applicants
- PAN Card of Business (or Individual)
- Aadhaar Card of Proprietor / Director
- Bank Account Certificate or Cancelled Cheque
- Address Proof of Business (Electricity Bill, Rent Agreement)
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) — Class 3
Companies / LLPs (Additional)
- Certificate of Incorporation
- MOA & AOA
- Board Resolution for Authorized Signatory
- Director's PAN
IEC Registration Process
Share PAN, Aadhaar, bank details, and business address proof. DSC arranged if needed.
Business registered on DGFT portal with IEC application form prepared.
IEC application filed on dgft.gov.in with DSC. Application ID generated.
DGFT verifies PAN details with CBDT. IEC issued automatically for most applications.
Digitally signed IEC certificate downloaded from DGFT portal and delivered to you.
With IEC vs Without IEC
See how IEC enables your global trade operations.
| Trade Activity | With IEC | Without IEC |
|---|---|---|
| Import Goods from Abroad | ||
| Export Goods from India | ||
| Customs Clearance | ||
| Receive Foreign Currency (FIRC) | ||
| Access Export Incentives | ||
| Amazon Global / International E-Commerce | ||
| Bank Export Finance |
Why Choose Startup India Experts?
Fast IEC registration with DGFT portal expertise and export advisory.
Fast 1–3 Day Processing
Application filed on DGFT portal and IEC issued within 1–3 working days.
DGFT Expert Team
Our team handles DSC, portal registration, and filing — completely hands-off for you.
1000+ IECs Obtained
Extensive experience with IEC for sole proprietors, partnerships, LLPs, and companies.
Annual Update Included
Annual IEC update (mandatory each April–June) guidance included.
Export Scheme Advisory
Guidance on RoDTEP, advance authorization, and other DGFT export incentive schemes.
Company Documentation
Board resolution drafting, MOA review, and authorized signatory documentation handled.
Frequently Asked Questions — IEC Registration
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IEC Registration Across India
Get Your IEC Code in 1–3 Days
DGFT-registered IEC with expert CA support across India.
Includes DGFT fee · Expert CA Filing · Annual Update Guidance
