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IEC (Import Export Code) Registration

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Get professional assistance with Import Export Code registration. IEC is a 10-character alphanumeric code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and is generally required to import or export goods, subject to applicable rules and exemptions.

Professional Fee ₹1,000*
Government Fee ₹500 (As applicable, paid online)

*Professional fee is separate from government fees. Additional services, if required, may be charged separately.

Apply for IEC Registration Chat on WhatsApp

Mandatory for Import & Export

Generally required for goods trade, subject to exemptions.

Issued by DGFT

Applications are made through the DGFT online portal.

Online Application Process

Application and related services are available online.

Lifetime Validity

Generally valid for life; required annual updates still apply.

Helps in Global Trade

Supports eligible businesses in cross-border trade activity.

End-to-End Support

Guidance with eligibility, documents and the filing process.

UNDERSTANDING IEC

What is IEC?

Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-character alphanumeric business identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce.

It is generally required to import or export goods, subject to applicable rules and exemptions. For service exports, IEC may not be necessary unless the service provider is taking benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy.

Following the introduction of GST, the IEC issued to a firm is based on its PAN, but an application through the DGFT portal is still required where applicable.

CHECK YOUR ELIGIBILITY

Who Needs an IEC?

IEC requirements depend on the nature of the activity and applicable foreign trade rules. It is generally relevant to:

Eligible applicants

  • Manufacturers
  • Traders, wholesalers & retailers
  • Merchant exporters
  • E-commerce sellers shipping abroad
  • Importers
  • Service exporters where IEC is applicable
  • Proprietorships and partnership firms
  • LLPs and Private Limited Companies
  • HUFs, cooperatives and other eligible entities
EXEMPTIONS

Who is Exempt?

Certain transactions or categories may be exempt from obtaining an IEC under applicable DGFT and customs rules. Categories can include:

  • Central and State government ministries and departments
  • Import or export of goods for genuine personal use, where applicable
  • Small consignments through specific border points with Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar and China, where applicable
  • Certain other notified categories using permanent IEC numbers

Exemptions depend on the transaction and applicable DGFT/customs rules. Verify current requirements before relying on an exemption.

GET PREPARED

Documents Required

Exact requirements can vary by applicant and entity type. Commonly requested information and documents may include:

Identity & Constitution

  • PAN of the business or proprietor
  • Aadhaar of applicant / authorised signatory, where applicable
  • Business constitution document, if not sole proprietor
  • Passport-size photograph, where applicable

Address & Bank Details

  • Business address proof
  • Electricity bill, rent agreement or sale deed, as applicable
  • Bank proof such as cancelled cheque or bank certificate

Contact & Other Details

  • Email address and mobile number
  • Business and applicant details
  • Additional documents required for the applicant/entity type

DGFT may prescribe specific formats or request further information. Check the current portal requirements before filing.

A CLEARER PATH

IEC Registration Process (Online)

The application is completed through DGFT, with processing dependent on complete information and applicable checks.

  1. 01

    Register on dgft.gov.in

    Create an account using email and mobile number.

  2. 02

    Select “Apply for IEC”

    Select the appropriate option and applicable form.

  3. 03

    Fill Details & Upload Documents

    Enter business information and upload required documents.

  4. 04

    Pay Government Fee

    Pay the applicable fee through available online methods.

  5. 05

    E-Sign & Submit

    Verify the application and complete applicable authentication.

  6. 06

    Receive IEC

    IEC is generally made available after successful processing of the application.

CLEAR FEE BREAKDOWN

Fees

Professional assistance and government charges are shown separately for clarity.

COMPLYO SERVICE

Professional Fee

₹1,000*

Professional assistance for IEC application support.

DGFT CHARGE

Government Fee

₹500

As applicable, paid online through the available portal.

*Professional fee is separate from government fees. Government fees may change; verify the current amount before payment. Additional services, if required, may be charged separately.

KEEP YOUR IEC CURRENT

Validity & Annual Update

Lifetime validity, with applicable update requirements

IEC is generally valid for the lifetime of the entity and does not normally require renewal. Applicable annual update requirements must still be complied with as prescribed by DGFT.

Mandatory annual update period 1 April – 30 June
  • If the required annual update is not completed, IEC may be deactivated under applicable DGFT rules.
  • Update business, ITR and GST details where required.
  • Update details when the address, bank account or other relevant information changes.

Always verify current DGFT requirements and annual update rules before filing.

BEFORE YOU APPLY

Key Points to Remember

A careful application and timely updates help keep your information aligned with current DGFT requirements.

  • PAN is the IEC number, but the applicable IEC application or update process must still be completed through DGFT.
  • GST is not universally mandatory for every IEC applicant; applicability depends on the transaction and relevant rules.
  • Provide accurate business and applicant details.
  • Keep address, bank account and other relevant information updated.
  • Use IEC for legitimate import/export and foreign trade activities.
  • Incorrect information or non-compliance may have regulatory consequences.
GOOD TO KNOW

Frequently Asked Questions

NEED HELP WITH IEC REGISTRATION?

Need Help with IEC Registration?

Get professional assistance with eligibility, documentation, online application and IEC certificate support.

Apply for IEC Registration Chat on WhatsApp
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