Get Import Export Code 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.
Import Export Code (IEC) is one of the most common registrations Indian businesses ask us about. This complete guide covers what it is, who needs it, the documents, the exact process, fees, validity and the penalties for non-compliance — everything in one place.
What is Import Export Code (IEC)?
Import Export Code (IEC) is granted by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce, via dgft.gov.in under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992. It is the legal authorisation that lets an eligible person or business operate in compliance with the applicable rules.
Who needs Import Export Code (IEC)?
- Any person or business importing goods into or exporting goods from India
- Service exporters seeking benefits under foreign-trade schemes
- E-commerce exporters shipping through couriers or post
Benefits of Import Export Code (IEC)
- Unlocks legal import and export from India
- Required to clear customs and receive/remit foreign payments
- Enables benefits under DGFT export-promotion schemes
- One-time registration with no filing or renewal fee (only annual confirmation)
Documents required
- 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
Import Export Code (IEC) process — step by step
- Register on DGFT portal — Create a user account on dgft.gov.in and select "Apply for IEC".
- Fill the ANF-2A form — Enter firm details, proprietor/partner/director details, and branch details.
- Enter bank & upload documents — Provide bank details and upload PAN, address proof and cancelled cheque.
- Verify with Aadhaar / DSC — Authenticate the application using Aadhaar OTP or Digital Signature.
- Pay ₹500 fee — Complete the payment online.
- Download the IEC certificate — The 10-digit IEC (same as PAN) is auto-generated and the certificate is available for download.
Fees, timeline and validity
| 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. |
Penalty for non-compliance
Goods cannot be cleared through customs and foreign remittances cannot be processed without an active IEC; an un-updated IEC is deactivated until confirmed.
Related guides on Import Export Code (IEC)
- Documents Required for Import Export Code (IEC)
- 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 is Import Export Code (IEC) and who issues it?
Import Export Code (IEC) is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce, via dgft.gov.in under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992. Any person or business importing goods into or exporting goods from India.
What documents are required for Import Export Code (IEC)?
Key documents include: 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.
What are the fees for Import Export Code (IEC)?
The DGFT application fee for IEC is ₹500 (one-time), paid online. Professional assistance typically costs ₹500 – ₹2,000 (professional/assistance fee).
How long does Import Export Code (IEC) take and how long is it valid?
Typically issued within 1–3 working days of a complete, Aadhaar/DSC-verified application. 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.
What happens if I don't get Import Export Code (IEC)?
Goods cannot be cleared through customs and foreign remittances cannot be processed without an active IEC; an un-updated IEC is deactivated until confirmed.