Import-Export Code (IEC) Checklist
Tick off every document, DGFT process step and post-IEC task — with a live progress tracker so you know exactly what is left before you can import or export.
- Free — no sign-up
- Instant, on-screen results
- Built by our CA · CS team
- Rules cited on the page
Scanned copies you upload while filing on the DGFT portal.
The DGFT online filing steps, in order.
Activation and compliance tasks so you can actually clear shipments and claim benefits.
Checklist summary
Live status of each stage of your IEC registration.
| Stage | Items | Completed | Status |
|---|
Get your IEC registered by TaxClue
We prepare the documents, file ANF-2A on DGFT and hand you the certificate — plus GST/ICEGATE & AD-code setup.
Disclaimer: Indicative checklist based on DGFT / FTP procedures. Exact documents and steps may vary by entity type and port. Government fee ₹500 is subject to change per DGFT notifications.
IEC registration — at a glance
The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit code issued by the DGFT that every business needs to import into or export out of India. It is issued against your PAN, is valid for a lifetime, and now carries a mandatory annual confirmation. Here are the key facts.
| Issuing authority | Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce |
| Government fee | ₹500 — one-time application fee |
| Code format | 10-digit code, PAN-based (one IEC per PAN) |
| Application form | ANF-2A, filed online on the DGFT portal |
| Validity | Lifetime — no renewal, but annual updation is mandatory (Apr–Jun) |
| Signing method | Class-3 DSC or Aadhaar OTP e-sign |
| Typical turnaround | IEC generated instantly on successful e-signed submission |
How IEC registration works
The whole process is online on the DGFT portal. Gather documents, file ANF-2A, pay ₹500, e-sign, and download your code — then activate it for customs.
Register on DGFT
Create your account on dgft.gov.in, verify with OTP, and select "Apply for IEC".
Fill ANF-2A
Enter entity, address, bank and signatory details, and upload PAN, address and bank proofs.
Pay ₹500 fee
Pay the one-time government fee online via net-banking, card or UPI.
E-sign & submit
Sign with a Class-3 DSC or Aadhaar OTP to lock and submit the application.
Download IEC
The 10-digit PAN-based IEC certificate is generated instantly on your dashboard.
Activate & comply
Link GST & ICEGATE, register your AD code, get RCMC, and confirm IEC every April–June.
Key terms explained
IEC (Import Export Code)
A 10-digit code issued by DGFT against your PAN. It is mandatory for any business importing or exporting goods/services from India and is valid for a lifetime.
DGFT
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade — the authority under the Ministry of Commerce that issues IECs and administers India's Foreign Trade Policy on its dgft.gov.in portal.
RCMC
Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate from an Export Promotion Council. It is required to claim export incentives, duty benefits and scheme entitlements.
AD Code
An Authorised Dealer code issued by your bank and registered at the port of export. Shipping bills cannot be generated in customs until the AD code is registered.
ICEGATE
The Indian Customs EDI Gateway — the customs e-filing portal where your IEC is linked for filing shipping bills, bills of entry and tracking clearances.
Annual updation (mandatory)
IEC holders must confirm or update IEC details on DGFT every year between April and June. If not done, the IEC is deactivated until updated — even if nothing has changed.
Questions people ask
Short answers on Import-Export (IEC) Checklist. Tap a question to open it.
01What is the full sequence to start importing or exporting?
Set up the entity and PAN, obtain GST registration, open a current account, apply for the IEC on the DGFT portal, register on ICEGATE for customs filings, obtain an AD Code registration from your bank at each port, and take an RCMC if you want Foreign Trade Policy benefits.
02What is an AD Code and why is it needed?
The authorised dealer code of your bank branch, registered at each port through which you trade. Customs will not generate a shipping bill without it, since the export proceeds have to be tracked against that account.
03What is an RCMC?
A Registration-cum-Membership Certificate from the relevant Export Promotion Council. It is required to claim most benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy and is often asked for by overseas buyers as evidence of standing.
04What is a LUT and when do I need one?
A Letter of Undertaking filed on the GST portal that lets you export without paying IGST. It is filed for each financial year and is the simpler alternative to paying IGST and claiming a refund.
05What documents accompany an export shipment?
Commercial invoice and packing list, shipping bill, bill of lading or airway bill, certificate of origin, and any product-specific certificate — phytosanitary, health, or a pre-shipment inspection certificate depending on the goods and destination.
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Disclaimer: This tool gives indicative results for general guidance only and is not professional advice. Please verify with a qualified CA before acting on the numbers.