Import Export Code (IEC) Apply Online: DGFT Process

What is Import Export Code (IEC)?

Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry. It is mandatory for any person or business that wants to import or export goods and services from India.

The IEC number is a lifetime code — it does not require renewal. However, it must be updated annually on the DGFT portal between April and June each year.

Who Needs IEC?

IEC is mandatory for:

• Any business importing goods into India
• Any business exporting goods from India
• Service exporters receiving foreign currency payments (in some cases)
• E-commerce sellers exporting through platforms

Exemptions (IEC Not Required)

• Import/export for personal use (not commercial)
• Import/export by government departments and notified agencies
• Export of goods to Nepal and Myanmar up to ₹25,000 per consignment
• Goods covered under the exemption list notified by DGFT

Documents Required

For Proprietorship

• PAN card of the proprietor — Apply for PAN
• Aadhaar card — Apply for Aadhaar
• Passport-size photograph
• Cancelled cheque or bank certificate with account holder name, account number, and IFSC
• Address proof of business premises (electricity bill, rent agreement, or sale deed)

For Partnership / Company / LLP

• PAN card of the entity
• PAN and Aadhaar of all partners/directors
• Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed
• Cancelled cheque or bank certificate of the entity
• Address proof of registered office
• Authorisation letter / Board resolution
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of authorised signatory

Step-by-Step Online Process

Step 1: Register on DGFT Portal

1. Visit dgft.gov.in
2. Click on "Services" → "IEC" → "Apply for IEC"
3. If you are a new user, register with your PAN, email, and mobile number
4. Verify your email and mobile with OTP
5. Create your login credentials

Step 2: Fill the IEC Application (ANF 2A)

1. Log in to the DGFT portal
2. Navigate to Services → IEC → Apply for IEC
3. The form will auto-populate some details from your PAN
4. Fill in the remaining details:
   • Applicant details (name, address, constitution)
   • Business details (nature of business, ITC-HS codes)
   • Bank account details
   • Branch details (if any)

Step 3: Upload Documents

• Upload scanned copies of all required documents
• Each document should be in PDF/JPEG format (max 5 MB per file)
• Ensure documents are clear and legible

Step 4: Pay Fees

• Pay the application fee of ₹500 through online payment (net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI)
• Payment receipt will be generated automatically

Step 5: Submit Application

1. Review all details carefully
2. Sign the application using DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) or Aadhaar e-Sign
3. Submit the application
4. Note down the File Number for tracking

Step 6: Receive IEC

• DGFT processes the application within 1-2 working days
• Once approved, IEC is generated and sent to your registered email
• Download IEC certificate from the DGFT portal under Services → IEC → Print IEC

Fees

Processing Time

Annual IEC Update

Since 2022, all IEC holders must update their IEC details on the DGFT portal between April and June every year. Even if there are no changes, you must confirm existing details. Failure to update may result in deactivation of your IEC.

Steps to update:

1. Log in to dgft.gov.in
2. Go to Services → IEC → Modify IEC
3. Verify/update details and submit

Important Tips

1. PAN is your IEC — the IEC number is the same as your entity PAN (for firms) or individual PAN (for proprietors)
2. Annual update is mandatory — update between April-June every year or your IEC may be deactivated
3. GST registration — if you are importing/exporting, you will also need GST registration with relevant HSN/SAC codes
4. Bank account must match — the bank account in IEC must be in the same name as the PAN holder
5. One IEC per PAN — you cannot get multiple IECs against the same PAN

FAQs

Q1: What is the fee for IEC registration?

The DGFT charges a fee of ₹500 for IEC registration. This is a one-time fee — there are no renewal charges as IEC is valid for lifetime.

Q2: How long does it take to get IEC?

IEC is typically issued within 1-2 working days of submitting the application on the DGFT portal.

Q3: Is IEC mandatory for service exporters?

IEC is not required for most service exports. However, if you receive payments through banking channels and the bank asks for IEC, you may need one. Consult your bank and DGFT guidelines.

Q4: Can I use my PAN as IEC?

Yes, since 2014, DGFT has made PAN the IEC number. Your 10-digit IEC will be the same as your PAN.

Q5: What happens if I don't update IEC annually?

Your IEC will be deactivated by DGFT. You will not be able to import or export until you update and reactivate it.

Q6: Can I apply for IEC without GST registration?

Yes, IEC and GST are independent registrations. However, for actual import/export operations, you will typically need both.

Q7: Is IEC valid for lifetime?

Yes, IEC does not expire. But you must complete the annual update on the DGFT portal between April and June.

This guide is for informational purposes only. CitizenNest is an independent platform and is not affiliated with the Government of India. Always verify details on the official DGFT Portal before proceeding.