IEC Registration

An Import Export Code (IEC) is a unique 10-digit code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Government of India. It is mandatory for any business or individual importing or exporting goods and services from India.

Any business or individual planning to import or export goods and services from India must obtain an IEC. This applies to all businesses, regardless of size or turnover.

The IEC can be applied for online through the DGFT website. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Visit the DGFT website and navigate to the IEC section.

• Create a user profile on the DGFT portal.

• Fill out the IEC application form (Form ANF 2A) with the required details.

• Upload the necessary documents (PAN Card, address proof, bank certificate, or cancelled cheque).

• Pay the application fee online.

• Submit the application. You will receive a confirmation and the IEC will be issued electronically.

The required documents vary depending on the type of business entity:

Proprietorship:

• PAN Card of the proprietor
• Passport-sized photograph of the proprietor
• Address proof of the proprietor (Aadhar card, Voter ID, Passport, Utility bill)
• Bank certificate or a cancelled cheque of the proprietor’s current account
• Digital signature

Partnership Firm:

• PAN Card of the partnership firm
• PAN Cards of all partners
• Passport-sized photographs of all partners
• Partnership deed
• Address proof of the firm (Utility bill, Rental agreement)
• Bank certificate or a cancelled cheque of the firm’s current account
• Digital signature of the authorized partner

Limited Liability Partnership (LLP):

• PAN Card of the LLP
• PAN Cards of all designated partners
• Passport-sized photographs of all designated partners
• LLP Agreement
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Address proof of the LLP (Utility bill, Rental agreement)
• Bank certificate or a cancelled cheque of the LLP’s current account
• Digital signature of the authorized partner

Company (Private/Public):

• PAN Card of the company
• PAN Cards of all directors
• Passport-sized photographs of all directors
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
• Address proof of the company (Utility bill, Rental agreement)
• Bank certificate or a cancelled cheque of the company’s current account
• Digital signature of the authorized signatory
• Board resolution authorizing the person to apply for the IEC

Hindu Undivided Family (HUF):

• PAN Card of the HUF
• PAN Card of the Karta
• Passport-sized photograph of the Karta
• Address proof of the Karta (Aadhar card, Voter ID, Passport, Utility bill)
• Bank certificate or a cancelled cheque of the HUF’s current account
• Digital signature of the Karta

Yes, a digital signature (Class 2 or Class 3 DSC) is required to authenticate and submit the IEC application online.

Once the application is submitted and verified, the IEC is usually issued within 5-7 working days.

Yes, there is a nominal application fee for IEC registration, which needs to be paid online during the application process.

No, the IEC is issued for a lifetime and does not require renewal. However, it is important to keep the details updated.

To update or modify your IEC details:

1. Login to the DGFT portal using your credentials.
2. Select the ‘Modify IEC’ option.
3. Update the required details and upload supporting documents.
4. Submit the modification request.
5. The modifications will be processed and updated accordingly.

If you lose your IEC certificate, you can download a copy from the DGFT website by logging into your account and accessing the ‘IEC Dashboard’.

Yes, you can surrender your IEC if you no longer wish to conduct import/export activities. This can be done by submitting a formal request through the DGFT portal.

While there are no specific annual compliance requirements for the IEC itself, businesses must comply with other regulatory requirements such as filing GST returns, customs documentation, and adhering to the Foreign Trade Policy.

No, a single entity cannot have more than one IEC. If a business operates under multiple names, they must all operate under the same IEC.

You can check the status of your IEC application by logging into your DGFT account and navigating to the ‘IEC Dashboard’.

Yes, an IEC is required for exporting services from India, just as it is for exporting goods.

Importing or exporting goods and services without an IEC is illegal and can lead to severe penalties, including seizure of goods, heavy fines, and legal action by customs and other regulatory authorities.

Yes, an IEC can be canceled by the DGFT if it is found to be obtained through fraudulent means or if the holder is found to be violating any provisions of the Foreign Trade Policy. You can also request cancellation voluntarily if the IEC is no longer required.

Yes, the DGFT provides a specific format for the bank certificate which must be followed. This format can be downloaded from the DGFT website and needs to be duly filled and signed by your bank.

Linking your IEC with your GSTIN is mandatory and can be done during the IEC application process. You need to provide your GSTIN details in the IEC form. If you have already obtained an IEC, you can update your GSTIN through the modification process on the DGFT portal.

No, an IEC is not transferable. If the ownership or structure of the business changes, a new IEC must be obtained.

If there are any discrepancies in your IEC details, you should immediately log into the DGFT portal and use the ‘Modify IEC’ option to correct the information. Supporting documents must be provided to validate the changes.

EOUs follow the same procedure for obtaining an IEC as any other business. However, they must ensure compliance with additional regulations and benefits specific to EOUs as stipulated by the DGFT and other regulatory bodies.

No, foreign entities cannot apply for an IEC. The applicant must be an Indian resident or an entity registered in India.

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is required for online verification and submission of the IEC application. It ensures the authenticity and integrity of the submitted documents.

For technical issues, you can contact the DGFT helpdesk through their website or reach out via the helpline numbers provided. They can assist with troubleshooting and resolving technical difficulties.

Yes, the government offers various schemes and benefits to businesses with an IEC, such as the Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS), Service Exports from India Scheme (SEIS), and duty drawbacks. These schemes are designed to promote and support exports from India.

Yes, an individual can apply for an IEC even without a formal business structure if they intend to engage in import or export activities. The process remains the same.

Yes, non-profit organizations engaging in import or export activities also require an IEC. The application process and requirements are the same as for other entities.

No, there are no annual maintenance or renewal fees for the IEC. Once issued, it is valid for a lifetime without any recurring charges.

If your IEC has been deactivated due to non-compliance or other reasons, you can reactivate it by logging into the DGFT portal, updating any pending compliance requirements, and submitting a request for reactivation.

You can verify the authenticity of an IEC through the DGFT website by entering the IEC number in the IEC verification section. This will provide details about the registered IEC and its validity.

You can apply for an IEC through the DGFT website. This portal provides all necessary forms, guidelines, and support for the application process.