All about Import Export Code(IEC) registration

Import Export (IE) Code is a registration required for persons importing or exporting goods and services from India. IE Code is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industries, Government of India. Without IEC no person is allowed to export or import goods. Certain category of importers and exporters exempt from obtaining IE Code:

• Ministries or Departments of Central or State Government.
• Persons importing or exporting goods for person use not connected with trade or manufacture or agriculture.
• Persons importing or exporting goods from or to Nepal, Myanmar through Indo-Myanmar border areas and China, provided CIF value of a single consignment does not exceed Rs.25000. In case of Nathula port, the applicable exemption ceiling is Rs.1 lakh. Exemption from obtaining IE code is not applicable in case of export of special chemicals, organisms, materials, equipments and technologies listed in Appendix 3 of Schedule 2 of ITC HS.

The complete registration process for obtaining an Import Export Code number is online. One needs to follow certain steps to apply IEC Online. The steps are as follows:

• Visit the DGFT Website: Access the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) website, which is the official portal for IEC registration.
• Navigate to Services: Once on the DGFT website's homepage, click on the 'Services' tab to access the available services and options.
• Select IEC Profile Management: From the dropdown list in the 'Services' tab, choose the 'IEC Profile Management' option. This is where you'll begin your IEC registration process.

• Initiate IEC Application: After selecting 'IEC Profile Management,' a new page will open. Look for the 'Apply for IEC' option on this page and click on it.

• Register Your Account: Click the 'Register' option on the application page. You will need to provide the required details, and then click the 'Send OTP' (One-Time Password) button.

• Verify OTP and Set Password: Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number or email. Once the OTP is validated successfully, you'll receive a notification containing a temporary password. You can change this password after logging into the DGFT website.
• Log in and Fill IEC Application: Log in to the DGFT website using your user name and newly set password. After logging in, select the 'Apply for IEC' option again.
• Complete Application Process: Fill out the IEC application form (ANF 2A format), upload the required documents, pay the applicable fees, and then click the 'Submit and Generate IEC Certificate' button. The DGFT will process your application, and once approved, your IEC code will be generated. You can then print out your IEC certificate for reference.

Documents required for IEC

The essential documents required for IEC (Import/Export Code) registration in India, explained briefly:

• PAN Card: Your Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is a primary identification document for IEC registration.
• Identity Proof: Provide one of the following identity proof documents:

1. Voter ID
2. Aadhar Card
3. Passport

• Cancelled Cheque: Submit a cancelled cheque from your bank account to validate your bank details for IEC registration.
• Proof of Place of Business: Provide documents confirming your business location. This can be in the form of a: Rent Agreement (if you are renting the place) or Electricity Bill (as proof of address if you own the premises)
• Address for Certificate Delivery: Specify the address where you want to receive the IEC certificate via registered post.