Import Export Code (IEC) Registration

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Import export code (IEC) Registration


IEC Code is unique code provided to every Importer and Exporter. IEC code is a 10 Digit Code. IEC Code is must for every business that is in import and export. IE Code stands for Import Export Code. It is required for any person importing or exporting goods and services to or from India.

IEC is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industries, Government of India. Importers are not allowed to proceed without this code and exporters can’t take benefit of exports from DGFT, customs, Export Promotion Council, if they don’t have this code.

Import export code registration

Documents Required


Documents For Individual/ Proprietor/ Partner/ Director

  1. Copy of PAN Card
  2. Passport size photograph
  3. Copy of Aadhaar Card/ Voter identity card
  4. Authorization letter (In case of Partnership)
  5. Authority from other Directors on letter head (In case of company)
  6. Copy of Partnership deed (In case of Partnership)
  7. Board Resolution/self declaration (In case of Company)
  8. Telephone Bill in the name of the Individual (In case of individual)
  9. Cancelled cheque of individual

Documents For Entity

  1. Copy of PAN Card firm/company
  2. Copy of Property papers (If owned property)
  3. Copy of Rent agreement (If rented property)
  4. Landlord NOC (Format will be provided by us)
  5. Cancelled cheque of firm
  6. Electricity/ water bill (Business Place)
  7. Telephone Bill in the name of the business
  8. Copy of Service Tax returns (In case of Proprietorship)
  9. Certificate of incorporation (In case of company)
  10. Bank statement of firm/company
  11. AOA and MOA (In case of company)

Import export code (IEC) Registration


Importers Require IE Code

All Importers who import goods into India require an IE Code. The IE Code must be quoted while clearing customs. Also, banks require the importers IE Code while sending money abroad.

Exporters Require IE Code

All Exporters who export goods or services from India require an IE Code. The IE Code must be quoted while sending shipments. And banks require the exporters IE Code while receiving money from abroad.

Lifetime - NO Renewal

IE Code is issued for the lifetime of the entity and requires no renewal. So once a IE Code is obtained, it can be used by that entity for all its import or export transactions without any further hassles.

No Return Filing

IE Code does not require the filing of any return. Once, an IE Code is issued there are no further procedures required to maintain validity of the IE Code. Even if import or export transactions occur, there are no filings required to DGFT.

Proprietors can have IE Code

Even individuals who are proprietors of a business can obtain IE Code in their name. It is not necessary to incorporate a business entity for obtaining IE Code.

Quick Processing

IE Code can easily be obtained from DGFT within 10-15 working days after submission of the application along with all the necessary information. It is not necessary to show proof of any import or export to obtain IE Code.

Validity of IEC

An IEC number allotted to an applicant shall be valid for all its branches / divisions / units / factories. IEC is valid for ever and no need to renew the same.

Duplicate copy of the IEC

If original IEC, issued in format Appendix 18B, is lost or misplaced, issuing RA may consider request for grant of a duplicate copy of the IEC in the same format Appendix 18B, based on an affidavit.

Surrender of IEC

If an IEC holder does not wish to operate allotted IEC number, he may surrender the same by informing issuing authority. On receipt of such intimation, issuing authority shall immediately cancel it and electronically transmit it to DGFT and Customs authorities.

How to submit IEC Code application

Application can be submitted in person/by Authorised representative of the Company at the R & I counters in the regional offices of DGFT or it can be sent by post/courier.

Processing of IEC Code Application

In many offices there is counter assistance who assist in filing correct IEC application. Please take assistance of PRO also. It is better to file application by self and no need to approach any consultant. It is simple procedure and not complicated. In case of difficulty, one should not hesitate to contact higher officials. Even head of office. They are more than willing to help new exporters.

Issue and Despatch of IEC Code

IEC allotment letter is sent through post at the registered office mentioned by the applicant in the application. Similarly deficiency letters are send by post or if application is through counter assistance system, they are hand delivered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is IE Code?
IE Code stands for Import Export Code. It is required for any person importing or exporting goods and services to or from India.
Why is IE Code required?
All importers must mention their IE Code while clearing customs when their goods arrive in India. All exporters must mention their IE Code while exporting their goods from India. Additionally, now RBI requests person importing or exporting services to also mention IE Code in foreign remittances in bank account. Therefore, IE Code is required for anyone involved in import or export in India.
Is there a tax levied based on IE Code?
No. IE Code is not a tax registration. So no tax is levied based on IE Code during import or export of goods or services. However, customs duty maybe levied.
Do I have to file any returns for IE Code?
No. Returns need NOT be filed for IE Code.
How long is the IE Code valid for?
IE Code is valid for life-time of the entity and renewal is also not necessary.
Who must obtain IE Code registration?
Any person who proposes to import or export goods and services from or to India must obtain IE Code.
Can individuals obtain IE Code?
Yes, individuals acting as Proprietors of a business can obtain IE Code Registration.
What are the documents required for IE Code registration?
To obtain IE Code registration, a copy of PAN Card, proof of address of business and constitution of the business [Partnership deed, Incorporation Certificate, etc.,] and a letter from the banker is required.
How long does it take to obtain IE Code registration?
IE Code Registration can be obtained from the DGFT in 10-15 working days after submission of all required documents and application.
What is the penalty for not having IE Code?
IE Code is not a mandatory registration, only importers and exporters of goods or services must have IE Code. Therefore, there is no penalty for not having IE Code; however, import / export will not be possible without an IE Code.