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One-time RegistrationCentral Government

Import Export Code (IEC) Registration

Mandatory 10-digit code required for any business engaged in import or export of goods and services from India.

Department: Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)Processing: 1-5 working days

About this License

Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique number issued by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce. It is mandatory for any person or entity engaged in import or export of goods/services from India. IEC is valid for a lifetime and does not require renewal. Since 2021, IEC is issued online through the DGFT portal with PAN-based auto-allotment.

Application Process

Visit the DGFT portal (dgft.gov.in) → Register as a user on the portal → Fill the IEC application form (ANF 2A) → Upload required documents → Pay the prescribed fee (currently free) → IEC is issued online upon verification

1

DGFT Portal

Visit dgft.gov.in and register as a new user

2

Fill Application

Complete ANF 2A form with business and PAN details

3

Upload Documents

Upload PAN, Aadhaar, bank proof, and address proof

4

Submit

Submit application (IEC fee is nil for online applications)

5

Download IEC

IEC certificate issued online, valid for lifetime

Eligibility Criteria

  • 1Any person or entity engaged in import/export
  • 2Must have a valid PAN Card
  • 3No criminal conviction related to import/export
  • 4No pending customs or DGFT violations

Documents Required

PAN Card of the entity
Aadhaar Card of the applicant
Bank account certificate or cancelled cheque
Business address proof
GST Registration (if applicable)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is IEC mandatory for exports?
A: Yes, IEC is mandatory for any import or export from India.
Q: How long is IEC valid?
A: IEC is valid for a lifetime. No renewal is required.
Q: Is there any fee for IEC?
A: Online IEC application is free. Physical applications may cost ₹500.

Quick Information

Estimated Cost
Free (no fee for online application)
Processing Time
1-5 working days
Validity
Lifetime (one-time registration)
Level
central
Department
Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)

Fee Structure

IEC Online Application FeeFree
Physical Application Fee₹500 (if applicable)

Tags

#IEC#import-export#DGFT#export-code#international-trade
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