IEC (Import Export Code) Registration — Complete Guide for Indian Businesses (2026)
IEC (Import Export Code) registration for Indian businesses. From ₹1,999, 3-7 day delivery. DGFT, AD Code, customs. CA-led.
IEC (Import Export Code) is a 10-digit code issued by the DGFT. It is mandatory for any business doing import or export in India. In this guide, we cover the registration process, documents, fees, and how to use IEC.
What is IEC?
IEC is a unique 10-digit code issued by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). It is mandatory for any business (company, LLP, partnership, proprietorship) that wants to import or export goods or services from India. Lifetime validity — no renewal required.
Who Needs IEC?
- Any business that wants to import goods into India
- Any business that wants to export goods from India
- Any business that wants to import / export services (software, consulting)
- Customs broker
- Freight forwarder
- E-commerce sellers doing cross-border trade
- Consultants / freelancers receiving foreign payments (in some cases)
Exemptions
- Import / export of goods for personal use (not commercial)
- NRI / foreign nationals importing / exporting goods for personal use
- Import of goods up to ₹25,000 for personal use (single consignment)
- Export of goods up to ₹25,000 for personal use (single consignment)
- Import / export by customs broker for a client (the client needs IEC, not the broker)
Documents Required
- PAN of the entity (mandatory)
- Aadhaar of the proprietor / partners / directors (for verification)
- Certificate of Incorporation (for companies)
- Partnership Deed / LLP Agreement (for firms / LLPs)
- Address proof of the business (rent agreement + NOC + utility bill)
- Bank certificate (with IFSC + branch code)
- Cancelled cheque of the business bank account
- Photo of the authorised signatory
- MOA (for companies) — main object must mention import / export
IEC Registration Process
Step 1: Register on DGFT Portal
Visit dgft.gov.in → Services → IEC → Apply for IEC. Create login with PAN + Aadhaar.
Step 2: Fill Application
Fill: entity details, address, bank, directors / partners, business activity.
Step 3: Upload Documents
Upload: PAN, Aadhaar, address proof, bank certificate, cancelled cheque, photo, MOA.
Step 4: Pay Fee
Pay ₹500 government fee online.
Step 5: Get IEC
IEC is generated instantly. Download as PDF. Valid for lifetime.
Cost
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| IEC registration (government fee) | ₹500 |
| Our service fee | From ₹1,499 |
| Total fee | From ₹1,999 |
| IEC modification (e.g., address change) | ₹500 + our service fee |
AD Code Registration
After getting IEC, you need an AD Code (Authorized Dealer Code) registered with customs. AD Code links your IEC with your bank's IFSC. Required for filing Bills of Entry (import) / Shipping Bills (export). We handle AD Code registration as part of the IEC package.
How to Use IEC
- On all shipping bills (export)
- On all bills of entry (import)
- On all customs declarations
- On bank forms for foreign exchange (FIRC, FCTRS)
- For claiming export incentives (MEIS, RoDTEP, EPCG)
- On e-commerce platforms (Amazon Global, Flipkart, etc.)
- For applying to foreign buyers / suppliers
Penalty for Non-Compliance
- Import / export without IEC: ₹10,000-₹1 lakh fine + confiscation of goods
- Misuse of IEC: cancellation of IEC + prosecution
- FEMA violation (e.g., excess remittance): penalty + prosecution
- Failure to report export / import transactions: FLA return penalty
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is IEC valid?
A: IEC is valid for the lifetime of the entity. No renewal required. But you must update the IEC if there is a change in PAN, address, bank, or directors.
Q: Can a freelancer get IEC?
A: Technically yes (proprietorship), but rare. Most freelancers receive foreign payments through their bank's FIRC / FCTRS without IEC. But if you are exporting services worth significant value, IEC is recommended.
Q: Is IEC needed for software export?
A: Yes. If you are exporting software / IT services, IEC is mandatory for receiving foreign payments and for claiming export incentives.
Q: What is the difference between IEC and AD Code?
A: IEC is the 10-digit code issued by DGFT. AD Code is the customs registration that links IEC with your bank's IFSC. Both are mandatory.