Importer Exporter Code (IEC Code) License

Unless specifically exempted, no person shall make any import or export in India without obtaining an Importer Exporter Code (IEC). For service exports, IEC is not required unless benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy are claimed.

With the introduction of GST, IEC is issued based on the PAN of the firm. However, the IEC is still separately published by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) based on an application.

Import Export Code (IEC) is a mandatory registration for businesses involved in importing into or exporting goods from India.

IEC is a 10-digit unique number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

Before initiating imports, an importer must ensure the entity has GST Registration and IEC, both required for customs clearance.

Without GST and IEC, goods may get stuck at ports, incur demurrage charges, or may even be destroyed.

• International market access: Enables entry into global trade
• Online registration: Simple and completely online process
• Minimal documentation: Fewer documents required
• Lifetime validity: Valid as long as the business exists
• Prevents illegal trade: Ensures verified and authentic details
• Government benefits: Access to subsidies, tax refunds, and export incentives
• No compliances: No annual filings or returns required

IEC registration is permanent and valid for a lifetime. It remains valid until the business exists or the registration is revoked or surrendered.

Unlike GST or PF registrations, IEC does not require any filings or recurring compliance.

• Proprietorship Firm
• Partnership Firm
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
• Limited Company
• Trust
• Hindu Undivided Family (HUF)
• Society

• Valid login credentials on DGFT Portal
• Active PAN of the firm
• Firm details as per PAN (name, DOB/incorporation date)
• Active bank account in the name of the firm
• Valid business address

Note: Details are validated with the Income Tax Department database.

Proof of Establishment / Incorporation

• Partnership Firm
• Registered Society
• Trust
• HUF
• Other applicable entities

Proof of Address

• Sale Deed
• Rent Agreement / Lease Deed
• Electricity Bill
• Telephone Landline Bill
• Post-paid Mobile Bill
• MoU / Partnership Deed

Additional Address Proof (Proprietorship Only)

• Aadhaar Card
• Passport
• Voter ID

Note: If the address proof is not in the firm’s name, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the premises owner must be submitted along with address proof as a single PDF.

Proof of Firm’s Bank Account

• Cancelled Cheque
• Bank Certificate

Other Requirements

• Active DSC or Aadhaar of firm’s authorized member
• Active bank account for online fee payment