IEC Registration: How to Get Import Export Code in India

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 the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It is mandatory for any person or business entity engaged in importing or exporting goods and services in India.

Without an IEC, customs authorities will not allow clearance of imported goods, and foreign remittances for exports cannot be processed by banks. The IEC is a permanent code with no expiry and is valid for the lifetime of the entity, though annual updation on the DGFT portal is now required.

Who Needs an IEC?

• Companies, LLPs, and firms importing raw materials, machinery, or finished goods
• Exporters shipping goods or providing services to foreign clients
• E-commerce sellers exporting through platforms like Amazon Global, eBay, etc.
• Freelancers and service providers receiving foreign currency payments above the exempt limit

Exemptions from IEC

IEC is not required for:

• Import/export of goods for personal use (not for commercial purposes)
• Import/export by government departments and ministries
• Countries/territories notified for exemption
• Goods notified under the Foreign Trade Policy as not requiring IEC

Documents Required

Step-by-Step IEC Registration Process

Step 1: Register on DGFT Portal

Visit dgft.gov.in and create an account. Register using your PAN and verify via email and mobile OTP.

Step 2: Login and Apply

Navigate to Services > IEC > Apply for IEC. The application form (ANF-2A) will open. Fill in the entity details, promoter/partner details, and bank account information.

Step 3: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of PAN card, Aadhaar card (of authorised signatory), cancelled cheque of the current bank account, and address proof of the business premises.

Step 4: Pay the Fee

Pay the application fee of ₹500 through online payment (net banking, debit card, or UPI).

Step 5: Submit and DSC/Aadhaar Sign

Submit the application and digitally sign it using DSC or Aadhaar OTP. The application is submitted to the nearest DGFT Regional Authority.

Step 6: IEC Issuance

DGFT processes the application and issues the IEC within 1-3 working days. The IEC certificate can be downloaded from the DGFT portal. The IEC number is the same as the applicant's PAN.

IEC Annual Update (Mandatory)

Since 2021, all IEC holders must update their IEC details on the DGFT portal annually between April to June. Even if there are no changes, an "update" confirming "No changes" must be filed. Failure to update may result in IEC deactivation.

IEC Modification and Surrender

• Modification: Any change in entity name, address, partners/directors, or bank details must be updated on the DGFT portal.
• Surrender: If you no longer need the IEC, you can surrender it through the DGFT portal. This cancels the IEC permanently.

Benefits of Having an IEC

• Legal authorisation to import and export goods and services
• Access to government export promotion schemes (MEIS, SEIS, RoDTEP)
• Eligibility for customs duty exemptions and concessions
• Ability to receive foreign currency payments through banking channels
• Essential for Amazon Global Selling management and cross-border e-commerce

How The Ledger Company Can Help

The Ledger Company provides complete IEC registration services — from DGFT portal registration to document preparation, application filing, and issuance. We also handle annual IEC updates and modifications. Contact us for quick and affordable IEC registration.