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Import Export Code (IEC) Registration
Gateway to international trade. Mandatory license for importing or exporting goods and services from India.
Overview
What is Import Export Code?
Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce. It's mandatory for any business that wants to import or export goods and services from India.
IEC is a lifetime license with no renewal required. It's linked to your PAN and serves as your primary business identity for all customs clearances and foreign trade transactions. Without IEC, customs will not allow import or export of goods.
The IEC registration process has been simplified and can be completed online. Once obtained, you can start importing or exporting immediately. IEC is also required for availing benefits under Foreign Trade Policy like duty exemptions and export incentives.
Key Highlights
KEY ADVANTAGE
Lifetime Validity
No renewal required once obtained
Customs Clearance
Mandatory for all import/export shipments
Export Benefits
Avail MEIS, SEIS and other export incentives
Service Exports
Required for IT/ITES service exports
Online Process
Quick registration through DGFT portal
PAN Linked
10-digit code linked to business PAN
Lifetime Validity
No renewal required once obtained
Customs Clearance
Mandatory for all import/export shipments
Export Benefits
Avail MEIS, SEIS and other export incentives
Service Exports
Required for IT/ITES service exports
Online Process
Quick registration through DGFT portal
PAN Linked
10-digit code linked to business PAN
How It Works
Simple Process
STEP 0101
Document Collection
Gather PAN, Aadhaar, bank details, address proof
2
Digital Signature
Obtain DSC for online application signing
3
DGFT Application
Submit ANF 2A form on DGFT portal with fees
4
IEC Issued
Receive IEC certificate within 2-3 working days
1
Document Collection
Gather PAN, Aadhaar, bank details, address proof
2
Digital Signature
Obtain DSC for online application signing
3
DGFT Application
Submit ANF 2A form on DGFT portal with fees
4
IEC Issued
Receive IEC certificate within 2-3 working days
Key Benefits
Global Trade
Import from and export to any country
Duty Benefits
Avail customs duty exemptions and refunds
Foreign Exchange
Receive payments in foreign currency
Business Growth
Expand market beyond India's boundaries
Quick Issuance
IEC issued in 2-3 working days
Complete Assistance
DSC, application, and documentation support
Global Trade
Import from and export to any country
Duty Benefits
Avail customs duty exemptions and refunds
Foreign Exchange
Receive payments in foreign currency
Business Growth
Expand market beyond India's boundaries
Quick Issuance
IEC issued in 2-3 working days
Complete Assistance
DSC, application, and documentation support
Free Consultation
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Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Any person or business entity that wants to import or export goods. Also required for receiving foreign exchange for service exports above ₹5 lakhs annually.
Yes, if you receive payment in foreign currency for services exceeding ₹5 lakhs per year, IEC is required. Below this threshold, IEC is not mandatory for services.
IEC has lifetime validity. However, you must update the IEC if there are any changes in business details. Annual update is required between April-June each year.
Yes, individuals with PAN can obtain IEC. However, the import/export business should be conducted in individual capacity, not as hobby or personal use.
IEC is not required for personal imports not connected with trade, import/export by government ministries, specified notified agencies, and goods exported/imported below ₹5 lakhs value (for commercial samples).