An Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) is a 10-digit alphanumeric code that is required for importing or exporting goods and services in and out of India. IEC may be applied on behalf of a firm which may be a Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, Limited Company, Trust, HUF, Society. Firm must have a PAN, bank account in the name of the firm and a valid address before applying. Address may be physically verified by the DGFT on issuance of the IEC. Please keep your PAN, bank details and firm details ready before applying.
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The Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is a unique 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 requirement for any business entity involved in importing or exporting goods and services from India. The IEC serves as the primary identifier for these transactions and is essential for businesses to engage in international trade. The process of obtaining an IEC is straightforward, and once issued, it is valid for the lifetime of the entity without the need for renewal. This ensures that businesses can operate seamlessly without the hassle of periodic renewals. The IEC not only facilitates smoother trade transactions but also helps businesses establish their presence in the global market, enabling them to expand their operations beyond national borders.
The Importer Exporter Code (IEC) comes with a significant advantage: Lifetime Validity. Once issued by the DGFT, it requires no renewal, ever.
Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, Company, Trust, HUF, or Society.
Valid Permanent Account Number (PAN) issued by Income Tax Dept.
Current bank account in the name of the entity.
Different documents are required by different entities to get IEC code. Find your checklist below.
Global Market Access: Expand operations to international markets.
New Opportunities: Explore new product lines and global partnerships.
Simplified Compliance: No periodic returns required.
One-Time Registration: Valid for lifetime, no renewal needed.
Export Schemes: Access to MEIS, SEIS schemes.
Customs Clearance: Mandatory for smooth customs processing.
Foreign Transactions: Required for sending/receiving foreign currency.
Official Recognition: Legitimate importer/exporter status.
Brand Image: Enhances global trust.
Compliance: Adherence to trade regulations.
Transparency: Helps track and regulate trade.
Items requiring special permission or licensing
Seeds, Pesticides & Insecticides
Live animals & Meat products
Toxic chemicals & Ozone depleters
Narcotics & Medicines
Gold, Silver & Diamonds
Cryptographic devices & Drones
Firearms & Ammunition
Antiques & Cultural items
Visit the online portal of DGFT. Click on the ‘Apply for IEC’ tab.
Fill up details (Name, mobile, email). Enter OTP sent to mobile and click ‘Submit’.
Submit business details (Establishment date, PAN, account details). Click ‘Submit’.
Pay the requisite IEC application fee via electronic fund transfer.
After payment, upload the digital copies of the required documents.
Submit the completed form. An Ecom Reference Number will appear on screen.
Print the form and submit it to the DGFT office in your jurisdiction.
On successful verification, IEC will be issued within 3 to 7 days.
Udyog Suvidha Kendra will smoothly execute the import-export license online registration process for you. Our dedicated representatives will file the IEC application on your behalf. Post the submission; we would be doing the necessary coordination with the DGFT for expediting your application. We will ensure you receive your import-export license in just a few days.