Import Export Code Registration
Overview of Import Export Code (IEC) Registration
Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit code issued by DGFT under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, essential for businesses engaged in importing or exporting goods and services. Without IEC, customs clearance and international transactions are restricted. The registration process is simple, online, and valid for a lifetime.
Key Benefits of IEC Registration
Global Market Access: Enables businesses to expand internationally and establish relationships with overseas clients.
Government Incentives: Avail benefits under schemes like MEIS, SEIS, RoDTEP, EPCG, and more.
Tax Benefits: Claim IGST refunds and enjoy tax exemptions on exports (under certain conditions).
E-commerce Exports: Mandatory for selling goods internationally via platforms like Amazon and Flipkart.
Lifetime Validity: Once obtained, IEC is valid for the lifetime of the business with no renewal required.
What is IEC?
Import Export Code (IEC): A 10-digit unique identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
Organizations that Require IEC:
Sole Proprietorship
Partnership Firms
Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)
Private Limited Companies
Public Limited Companies
Trusts and Societies
Hindu Undivided Family (HUF)
Individuals Exporting Services
E-commerce Sellers
Government or Semi-Government Entities
Documents Required for IEC Registration in India
Proof of Registration
Registration Certificate or setup proof for HUFs, Societies, Trusts, etc.
PAN Card
Required for all business types—proprietorships, partnerships, LLPs, societies, trusts, HUF, etc.
Aadhaar Card
Aadhaar card of the business proprietor is mandatory.
Rejected Cheque
Includes Sale Deed, Rent Agreement, Lease Deed, or recent utility bills.
Registration
Proof of bank account with name, account number, and IFSC Code.
Passport-sized Image
Latest passport-sized photo of the applicant is required.
MOA and AOA
Companies must submit MOA and AOA as proof of business activities.
DSC
Digital Signature Certificate of the company’s Director is mandatory.
Bank Details
Submit a cancelled cheque and active Aadhaar as a single PDF.
Registration
Trademark registered, granting legal rights and protection.
Checklist for IEC Registration
Identity Verification
Provide a copy of the PAN card of the owner, proprietor, or director.
Documentation of Residence
Acceptable proofs: Utility bills, lease agreements, partnership deeds, sale deeds, MoUs.
Bank Certificate & Cancelled Cheque
Provide a cancelled cheque from the firm’s active current account.
Digital Signature Certificate
Application form must be digitally signed or Aadhaar verified.
Proof of Registration
Attach proof of business or organization registration.
Active DSC or Aadhaar
Ensure active DSC and mobile number linked to Aadhaar are available.
Active Firm’s Bank Account
Provide details of an active bank account for online payment processing.
Requirements for IEC Code Registration
To obtain an IEC Code, businesses must meet specific requirements. A valid PAN card of the business entity is essential, along with a current bank account in the business’s name. The application process requires a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for electronic submission and a recent passport-sized photograph of the applicant. Proof of the business entity’s address is also necessary, which can include legal documents such as a sale deed, lease deed, electricity bill, memorandum of understanding, partnership deed, or bills for landline or mobile phone services.
Additional documents may be needed depending on the type of business. For instance, private companies may submit an Aadhaar Card, Passport, or Voter ID as proof of residence, while other entities may provide a Certificate of Incorporation, Registration Certificate, or Certificate of Establishment.
All documents must be uploaded in scanned PDF format, each file not exceeding 5MB. The DGFT verifies all submitted details in real-time, so accuracy and up-to-date information are crucial to avoid processing delays.
Eligibility Criteria for Import Export Code Registration in India
Any individual or business entity interested in import-export activities can apply for IEC Registration. The business must be a registered entity with a current bank account in its own name and a registered office. The applicant, whether an owner or proprietor, must be an Indian resident, of legal age, competent to contract, and possess essential documents such as an Aadhaar Card, PAN, an active Aadhaar number, and a valid digital signature. Eligibility for various export incentive schemes like the Service Exports from India Scheme, Rebate of Duties & Taxes on Exported Products Scheme, Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme, and Rebate on State & Central Taxes and Levies Scheme also requires IEC Registration.
Process of IEC Registration Online
Visit the DGFT website: DGFT Portal
Click on “Apply for IEC”.
Click on “Start Fresh Application”.
Enter the required information along with the captcha code, then click on “Send OTP”.
Pay the required fee online during the application process.
Upload all necessary documents, including:
Proof of Name (PAN Card, Aadhaar Card, etc.)
Proof of Address (Electricity bill, Rent Agreement, etc.)
Proof of Firm's Bank Account (Cancelled cheque, Bank statement, etc.)
Other supporting documents as required by DGFT.
After submitting the application, documents, and fee, you will be directed to the DGFT website.
Download the receipt.
The IEC Certificate will be issued and sent to your registered email.
Frequently Asked Questions
An IEC Code is valid for a lifetime once issued. It does not have an expiry date and does not require renewal. However, it is advisable to keep the details updated if there are any changes in business details.
Yes, any individual or business entity can apply for IEC Registration through the DGFT website. Even proprietorship firms without a business entity can apply for an IEC.
Yes, obtaining an IEC Code is mandatory for any individual or entity engaging in import or export activities in India unless exempted by specific regulations.
Typically, once the application is successfully submitted along with the required documents and fee, the IEC Code is issued within 1-5 working days via email.
Yes, an IEC Code is a 10-digit identification number issued by DGFT for import and export. It is different from an Import Export License, which is a broader term that may include various permissions or licenses required for specific goods or regulated products.
No, IEC Registration can only be done online through the DGFT website. Offline applications are not accepted.
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