Documents Required for Import explained: this guide covers what it means, who it applies to, the step-by-step process, documents required, fees, due dates and penalties in India — so you can stay compliant with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
Getting your paperwork right is the single biggest factor in a smooth Import Export Code (IEC) application. Below is the complete, up-to-date checklist of documents you need, along with practical notes on format and common mistakes to avoid.
Documents required for Import Export Code (IEC)
Keep clear, self-attested scans (PDF/JPG) ready before you begin. The core documents are:
- PAN of the individual / firm / company
- Aadhaar or DSC of the applicant for verification
- Proof of establishment / incorporation (partnership deed / COI)
- Address proof of the business premises
- Cancelled cheque or bank certificate of the current account
- Valid email and mobile number for OTP
Who issues Import Export Code (IEC) and under which law
Import Export Code (IEC) is administered by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce, via dgft.gov.in under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992. Because the authority verifies each document, mismatched names, blurred scans or an expired address proof are the top reasons applications get queried.
Fees, timeline and validity at a glance
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Government fee | The DGFT application fee for IEC is ₹500 (one-time), paid online. |
| Professional fee (typical) | ₹500 – ₹2,000 (professional/assistance fee) |
| Processing time | Typically issued within 1–3 working days of a complete, Aadhaar/DSC-verified application. |
| Validity | Lifetime validity, but the IEC must be updated/confirmed on the DGFT portal every year (April–June) even if there are no changes, or it is deactivated. |
Entity-wise document requirements
The base checklist above applies to everyone, but the constitution proof differs by entity type. Keep the right one ready:
| Entity type | Additional constitution proof |
|---|---|
| Proprietorship | PAN & Aadhaar of the proprietor; no separate incorporation document |
| Partnership firm | Partnership deed and, if registered, the registration certificate |
| LLP | Certificate of incorporation, LLP agreement and DPIN of partners |
| Private / Public company | Certificate of incorporation, MOA & AOA, board resolution and DSC of directors |
| Trust / Society / Section 8 | Trust deed / society registration certificate / Section 8 licence and MOA |
Document tips to avoid rejection
- Ensure the name on PAN, Aadhaar and address proof matches exactly — a mismatch is the No. 1 cause of queries.
- Use a recent utility bill (usually within the last 2–3 months) as address proof.
- Where a rented premises is used, keep the rent agreement plus a signed NOC from the owner.
- Scan documents in colour and keep each file within the portal size limit.
- Have an active mobile number and email linked to the applicant for OTP verification.
Once your documents are in order, the actual filing is usually the quickest part of the whole process. If any proof is missing or outdated, fix it first — resubmitting after a rejection takes far longer than getting it right the first time.
Related guides on Import Export Code (IEC)
- How to Get Import Export Code (IEC) (Complete Guide)
- Import Export Code (IEC) Eligibility Criteria
- Import Export Code (IEC) Fees & Government Charges
- Import Export Code (IEC) Process Step by Step
- Benefits of Import Export Code (IEC)
- Import Export Code (IEC) Renewal: Process and Validity
- How to Cancel or Surrender Import Export Code (IEC)
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Talk to an expert →Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are mandatory for Import Export Code (IEC)?
The mandatory documents are: PAN of the individual / firm / company; Aadhaar or DSC of the applicant for verification; Proof of establishment / incorporation (partnership deed / COI); Address proof of the business premises. Additional documents may be requested depending on your entity type.
Is a separate address proof needed for Import Export Code (IEC)?
Yes. A valid registered-office/business-premises proof such as a recent utility bill, rent agreement with owner NOC, or ownership document is required.
How long does Import Export Code (IEC) take once documents are ready?
Typically issued within 1–3 working days of a complete, Aadhaar/DSC-verified application.
Is there any government fee for Import Export Code (IEC)?
The DGFT application fee for IEC is ₹500 (one-time), paid online.
How long is Import Export Code (IEC) valid?
Lifetime validity, but the IEC must be updated/confirmed on the DGFT portal every year (April–June) even if there are no changes, or it is deactivated.