Business Setup

Import Export Code (IEC)

Mandatory 10-digit IEC for import and export of goods and services.

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₹1,999

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Process

How It Works

DGFT Registration

User account created on the DGFT portal and linked to your PAN.

Form ANF-2A

IEC application completed with business, bank, and branch details.

Fee Payment

Government fee of ₹500 paid online and the application e-signed via Aadhaar or DSC.

IEC Issued

IEC certificate generated digitally, usually within one to three working days.

Overview

About This Service

The Import Export Code is a ten-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade and is mandatory for anyone importing into or exporting from India. Since 2017 the IEC is the same as your PAN, issued in a digital certificate format. Without it customs will not clear your consignment and banks will not process foreign remittances for trade. The IEC has lifetime validity but must be electronically updated on the DGFT portal every year between April and June, even when no details have changed, or it is deactivated.

Checklist

Documents Required

PAN Card of the business or individual

Aadhaar Card of the proprietor, partners or directors

Proof of business address (electricity bill, rent agreement or sale deed)

Cancelled cheque or bank certificate in the prescribed format

Certificate of incorporation or partnership deed (for companies and firms)

Digital Signature Certificate or Aadhaar-linked mobile for e-signing

Passport-size photograph of the applicant

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IEC required for service exporters?

Yes. Service exporters need an IEC to receive foreign remittances through banks and to claim benefits under foreign trade schemes, even though no physical goods cross the border.

Does IEC need renewal?

The IEC itself has lifetime validity, but it must be electronically updated on the DGFT portal every year between April and June even if nothing has changed. Failure to update results in deactivation.

Is IEC the same as my PAN?

Since 2017 the IEC number is identical to the PAN of the entity. You still need to formally apply so the code is activated and registered with DGFT and customs.

Can an individual obtain an IEC?

Yes. A proprietor or individual can obtain an IEC against their personal PAN without registering a separate company.

Are there any exemptions from holding an IEC?

Goods imported or exported for personal use, and transactions by certain government departments and notified charitable institutions, are exempt. Commercial trade requires it.