IEC Registration – Expand your Business Globally
IEC or Import Export Code is one of such requirements when you are thinking of importing/exporting from India and it is also known as Importer Exporter Code. IEC is a 10-digit unique identification number that is compulsory for import to India or export from India. Unless specifically exempted, any individual shall make no import/export without getting IEC Registration. Hence, IEC Registration Certificate is compulsory for any business involved in the export & import of goods. Therefore, before starting an import of products into India, an importer makes sure that the importing company has GST Registration and IEC Registration Certificates both, of which are required to clear customs.
When is Import Export Code Required?

IEC is required by the bank to transfer the amount

IEC is required by the customs authorities to clear all the shipments

VISA is also vital if an exporter needs to send shipments

Exporter is expected to receive funds in foreign currency
Benefits of IEC Registration
Lifetime Validity
There is no need to renew the IEC Code; it will be valid till the existence of the entity. After the winding up of the Company, this IEC Code expires.
No Compliance
After IEC Registration, there are no compliance requirements & hence maintaining the business is relatively simple.
Reduces illegal transportation
Basic requirements for the IEC Code is that you need to submit authentic details. Without giving proper details, IEC cannot be obtained.
Easy Processing
It is very easy to get the IEC Code from the DGFT within 10 – 15 days after submitting the application.
What is the eligibility to get the Import Export Code in India?
Any type of business such as Private Limited Companies, Partnership, Sole Proprietorship, or charitable organisations dealing with Imports and Exports in India can apply for IEC Registration, irrespective of the business size. However, IEC Number is not needed for import or export of products for personal use, which aren’t connected with manufacture, agriculture, or trade and there is no need for business set up.
Documents Required for IEC Registration

PAN Card
Copy of PAN Card of an individual, firm, or Company

Cancel Cheque
Cancel Cheque copies of current bank accounts

Agreement
Copy of rent or lease agreement or electricity bill copy of the premise

ID Proof
Aadhar Card, Voter id, or passport copy of an individual

Certificate
A self-addressed envelope for delivery of IEC Certificate by registered post.
Procedure for IEC Registration

- First, you need to visit the official website of DGFT for IEC Registration in India.
- Then, you need to register by creating a new account by providing your basic details like name, address, mobile number & email.
- Once you created your account, then you have to log in by using your registered email id and password.
- After that, you need to file the application form online and you need to enter all the vital details and upload all the documents.
- After filing, you need to pay the IEC application fee online.
- After submitting the application, you can track the application status online. Once the IEC is issued, you will get an IEC Certificate on your registered mail id.
When is IEC not Mandatory?
As per the latest circular by DGFT, the Import Export Code is not compulsory for all traders registered under GST. In all such instances, the Trader’s PAN shall be constructed as a new IEC Code for the purpose of Import & Export. IEC does not need to be taken in case the products exported/imported are for purpose purposes and are not used for any commercial purpose. Import or export is done by the Departments of Indian Government & Ministries and Notified Charitable Institutions to need not require getting IEC.
Exemption of Import Export Code (IEC)

Individuals undertaking Import & Export in India for personal reasons & not associated with trade, manufacture & agriculture;
The individuals or parties who import or export products to or from Nepal & Myanmar with a single consignment must not exceed the value of Rs. 25,000 via Indo-Myanmar border areas & China (through Gunji, Namgaya, Shipkila & Nathula ports);
Departments or Ministries of Central & State Governments;
As listed in Appendix-3, Schedule 2 of ITC, exemption from getting Import Export Code shall not be applicable for export of materials, special chemicals, equipment and technologies (SCOMET).

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What our Client's Say
SmoothRun is used by hundreds of founders to start, operate and grow their business.
We are Pune’s one of highest rated service provider, we are known for completing Business incorporations and other compliance services in record time.

Vrushali Yevle
“


Kunal Singh
“

Prashant Jagtap
“
Frequently Asked Questions
IEC registration is a 10-digit code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in India. It is required for individuals or businesses engaged in import and export activities.
Any individual or business entity involved in import/export activities in India must obtain an IEC registration, except for those exempted by the government.
You can apply for Import Export Code registration online through the DGFT website by filling out the prescribed application form and submitting the required documents.
The documents typically required for IEC registration include PAN card, Aadhaar card, bank certificate, cancelled cheque, passport-size photographs, and other supporting documents as needed.
The processing time for Import Export Code registration is usually 2-3 working days from the submission of the application, assuming all the documents are in order.
Yes, a fee is charged for IEC registration. The fee structure may vary based on the type of entity (individual or company) and can be found on the DGFT website.
No, as per the current regulations, an individual can obtain only one IEC. However, a business entity can have multiple branches or divisions, each with a separate IEC.
No, IEC registration is not required for the export of services. It is primarily needed for the export and import of goods.
Yes, certain changes like address, contact details, or addition/removal of partners can be updated by submitting the required documents to the DGFT.
Yes, failure to comply with IEC regulations may result in penalties, including suspension or cancellation of the IEC registration, and can affect import/export operations.