request a quote

Importer Exporter Code (IEC Code) Registration Online

Get Your Businessregistered under GST @ 899/-

  • Free Expert Guidance
  • Money Back Guarantee
  • Complete Online Process
  • Easy EMI Option Available

Importer Exporter Code

Import & Export Code is to be obtained by the business entity for import into or export from India. Import & Export Code is popularly known as the IEC number. Import & Export Code is a ten-digit unique number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

IEC registration certificate is mandatory for a business involved in import and export. Hence, before initiating an import of goods into India, an importer must ensure that the importing entity has GST registration and IE code – both of which are required to clear customs.

If an importer does not have both IE code and GST Registration, the goods will be stuck at the port and start incurring demurrage charges or could be destroyed.

Useful Links
  • GST Registration for New Business
  • Documents Required for GST Registration
  • GST Registration Online: A Guide

Importance of Import Export Code

  • International market unlocks:
  • Online registration
  • Less document requirement
  • Lifetime Validity
  • Reduces illegal goods transportation
  • Availing Several Benefits
  • Compliances:

Validity of IE Code

As mentioned above, IE Code registration is permanent and valid for a lifetime. Hence, there will be no hassles with updating, filing, and renewing the IEC registration. It is valid till the business exists or the registration is not revoked or surrendered. Further, unlike tax registrations like GST registration or PF registration, the importer or exporter does not require to file any filings or follow any other compliance requirements like annual filing.

As IE code registration is one-time and requires no additional compliance, it is recommended for all exporters & importers to obtain IE code after incorporation.

Pre-Requisites for Applying for IEC

  • Valid Login Credentials to DGFT Portal (After Registering on DGFT Portal)
  • IEC may be applied on behalf of a firm which may be a Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, Limited Company, Trust, HUF, and Society.
  • The Firm must have an active Firm’s Permanent Account Number (PAN) and details like Name as per Pan, Date of Birth, or Incorporation.
  • The Firm must also have a bank account in the Name of the Firm and a valid address before applying.

Startup or an established business, you’ll find professional utilities services fast, affordable and hassle-free Startup or an established business, you’ll find professional utilities services fast, affordable and hassle-free

Procedure to submit IE Code Application

The procedure to get the Importer Exporter Code Certificate is explained in detail below:

Step1: Visit the official DGFT website. Click on the ‘Services’ tab on the homepage and Select the ‘IEC Profile Management’ option from the drop-down list.

Step2: A new page will open. Click on the ‘Apply for IEC’ option on the Page.

Step3: Click on the ‘Register’ option. Enter the required details and click on the ‘Sent OTP’ button.

Step4: Enter the OTP and click on the ‘Register’ button.

Step5: Upon successfully validating the OTP, the User will receive a notification containing the temporary password, which can change after logging into the DGFT website.

Step6: After registering on the DGFT website, log in to the website by entering the user name and password.

Step7: Post login, click on “Apply for IEC” on the Dashboard. Click on the “Start Fresh Application” button or the “Proceed with Existing Application” button if the User has already saved a draft application.

Step8: Fill out the application form (ANF 2A format), and Enter the details in the General Information Section:

  • Select nature of Concern/Firm
  • Enter Firm Name
  • PAN Details
  • Select Preferred Activities
  • Enter corporate entity number (CIN)
  • Enter GSTIN Number of Concern/Firm
  • Enter Firm Mobile Number
  • Firm Mail ID
  • Enter firm address
  • Attach address proof of the Firm
  • Enter the details in the “Details of Proprietor/Partner/Director/Karta/Managing Trustee” Section
  • Enter the details in the “Bank Account Details” Section
  • Enter the details in the “Other Details (Exports Sectors preferred)” Section

Step9: Under the declaration, accept the terms and conditions by clicking on the check box.

Step10: Check the Application Summary and click on the Sign button to sign the Application using a digital signature certificate or Aadhaar.

Note: These details will be verified in real-time from the CBDT database.

Step11: Confirm and proceed to make the payment against the Application.

Step12: After Successful Payment, the Page shall be redirected to the DGFT Website, and the receipt shall be displayed; the User can also download the ticket.

Importer Exporter Code FAQ's

An Importer -Exporter Code (IEC) is crucial business identification number which mandatory for export from India or Import to India. Unless specifically exempted, any person shall make no export or import without obtaining an IEC.

All importers must mention their IE Code while clearing customs when their goods arrive in India. All exporters must mention their IE Code while exporting their goods from India. Additionally, RBI now requests persons importing or exporting services mention IE Code in foreign remittances in a bank account. Therefore, IE Code is required for anyone involved in import or export in India.

No. IE Code is not a tax registration. So no tax is levied based on IE Code during import or export of goods or services. However, customs duty may be levied.

Any person who proposes to import or export goods and services from or to India must obtain IE Code.

Yes, individuals acting as Proprietors of a business can obtain IE Code Registration.

To obtain IE Code registration, a copy of the PAN Card, proof of address of the business, and constitution of the business [Partnership deed, Incorporation Certificate, etc.] and a letter from the banker are required.

IE Code Registration can be obtained from the DGFT in 10-15 working days after submission of all required documents and applications.

Shopping Basket