What is IEC Registration?

IEC (Import Export Code) is a 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India. It is a mandatory license for any business or individual planning to engage in import or export of goods or services across international borders.

IEC is essential for customs documentation, foreign remittances, and shipping clearances. Whether you're an MSME, startup, trader, manufacturer, or service exporter, obtaining an IEC is the first step toward entering global markets.

Once issued, the IEC remains valid for life and does not require renewal, although it must be updated annually on the DGFT portal. The process is simple, digital, and supported by the government’s single-window platform for trade facilitation.

✅ Benefits of IEC Registration

🎯 Provide 7 strong benefit points, written from the client’s perspective.

1️⃣ Access Global Markets – I can legally import/export goods or services internationally
2️⃣ Customs & Shipping Clearance – Required for clearing shipments at Indian ports
3️⃣ Receive International Payments – Enables smooth foreign currency transactions
4️⃣ No Renewal Hassles – It’s valid for a lifetime with minimal maintenance
5️⃣ Easy Registration Process – Fully online with quick approval from DGFT
6️⃣ Government Benefits – Avail export incentives and schemes like MEIS, SEIS
7️⃣ Business Credibility – Boosts my brand’s legitimacy in the international trade ecosystem

📑 Documents Required for IEC Registration

📂 List all required documents with relevant emojis and brief explanations.

1️⃣ 🆔 PAN Card – Mandatory for individual/business identity
2️⃣ 🧾 Address Proof – Electricity bill, rent agreement, or sale deed of the business premises
3️⃣ 🏦 Bank Certificate or Cancelled Cheque – For verifying the bank account in applicant's name
4️⃣ 🧑‍💼 Aadhaar Card / Passport / Voter ID – Identity and address proof of the individual/authorized signatory
5️⃣ 🏢 Company Incorporation Documents (if applicable) – COI, MOA/AOA for companies
6️⃣ 📧 Active Email ID & Mobile Number – For DGFT OTP-based verification

👤 Eligibility for IEC Registration

🧾 The following entities are eligible to apply for IEC:

• Individuals involved in import/export as proprietors

• Partnership Firms, LLPs, and Private Limited Companies

• Charitable Trusts and Societies involved in export activities

• Exporters of services such as IT, consulting, marketing, etc.

• No minimum turnover required for eligibility

Even if a business exports services without physical goods (e.g., software), an IEC is still necessary to receive international payments.

🔄 Process of Getting IEC Registration

🔁 Provide a step-by-step explanation of how the service is executed from start to finish.

1️⃣ Document Preparation – Collect and verify all necessary documents
2️⃣ Online Application on DGFT Portal – Register and fill the Aayat Niryaat Form (ANF 2A)
3️⃣ Digital Signature Authentication – Apply DSC or Aadhaar e-verification for submission
4️⃣ Fee Payment – Pay the government fee (₹500 as per current DGFT guidelines)
5️⃣ Application Review by DGFT – Scrutiny and approval within 1–2 business days
6️⃣ IEC Issuance – Receive your Import Export Code via email and DGFT dashboard

⏱️ Timeline for IEC Registration

⏳ The IEC is generally issued within 1 to 2 working days after successful application and verification.

However, the timeline can vary depending on:

• DGFT server status

• Document accuracy

• Aadhaar/DSC authentication success

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about IEC Registration

1️⃣ What is IEC?
IEC stands for Import Export Code, a 10-digit registration number issued by DGFT to importers and exporters.

2️⃣ Is IEC mandatory for service exporters?
Yes, if you're receiving foreign payments for services, IEC is mandatory.

3️⃣ Is there any renewal process?
No renewal is required, but IEC holders must update their details annually on the DGFT portal.

4️⃣ Can I apply for IEC without a GST number?
Yes, IEC and GST registrations are independent of each other.

5️⃣ How long is the IEC valid?
IEC is valid for a lifetime, with a mandatory annual KYC update.

6️⃣ Can an individual apply for IEC?
Yes, individuals can apply using their personal PAN and bank account.

7️⃣ Can I change my IEC details later?
Yes, changes such as address, name, or bank account can be updated online through the DGFT portal.

8️⃣ What if I don’t update my IEC annually?
Your IEC may be deactivated temporarily, affecting import/export operations.

9️⃣ Do I need a DSC for IEC registration?
A DSC or Aadhaar e-sign is required for authentication, depending on the applicant type.

🔟 Is there any government fee for IEC?
Yes, a nominal fee of ₹500 is applicable for new registrations.