All about Import Export Code & its Registration

Antika Mukherjee | Last updated: 20 September 2022

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Quick Summary

An Import Export Code (IEC) is a mandatory 10-digit number for any entity involved in importing or exporting goods or services. Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, it's essential for all international trade activities. Once obtained, the IEC offers lifetime validity, simplifies international transactions, and aids in global business expansion.

WHAT IS IMPORT EXPORT CODE?

Any proprietorship, Company, society or charitable organization engaging in the import or export of goods or services duly, are required to get an unique 10 digit Import Export Code allotted to them by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Commerce.

It is strictly prohibited for importing and exporting activities to be conducted without possession of a valid Import-Export Code (IEC).

ADVANTAGES OF SECURING IEC

Once allotted an Import-Export Code, it is valid for a lifetime.
Requirement of only a few documents and the DGFT Portal is user-friendly.
Receipt of money from foreign banks, sending shipment abroad, etc.
Helps in diversification of business and expanding operations globally.

Import Export Code (IEC): Registration and Benefits

DOCUMENTS & INFORMATION REQUIRED

PAN CARD of the Company or Individual.
Aadhar Card of the Individual (Inapplicable for Company)
Certificate of Incorporation or registration obtained.
Applicant’s mobile number and email ID.
Proof of address- Aadhar Card/Voter ID/Passport (For Proprietorship) OR Electricity Bill/Rent Agreement/Lease Deed (For Company).

In case the proof of address is not in the name of the company, a No-Objection-Certificate is required from the owner.

A cancelled cheque from an Individual/Company/Partnership Firm’s current bank account.
Mobile Number & PAN Number of all the Directors (Applicable for Company)

The Applicant shall get himself registered on the DGFT Portal and then proceed to make an application for obtaining the Import Export Code.
Once the entire application is filled up, with all the necessary details & attachments, the applicant shall give his confirmation to the T&C, and proceed to sign on the application.
Signature can be made by e-verification of Aadhar or through the Digital Signature of the Applicant. Only Class 2/Class 3 DSC tokens are accepted in this case.
A fee of 500/- is required to be paid for IEC Registration.
Upon payment, a payment receipt is generated & the IEC certificate is granted almost instantaneously and can be printed from the DGFT portal.
Any modification/updation in the future can also be made through the DGFT Portal.

Attached File : 3299095_47751_article_on_iec_registration.pdf

FAQ :

An Import Export Code (IEC) is a unique 10-digit identification number required for any proprietorship, company, society, or charitable organisation that engages in the import or export of goods or services. It is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

Yes, it is strictly prohibited to conduct importing and exporting activities without possessing a valid Import-Export Code (IEC).

An IEC is valid for a lifetime, requires only a few documents for application, and the DGFT portal is user-friendly. It facilitates receiving money from foreign banks, sending shipments abroad, business diversification, and global expansion.

Required documents include PAN Card, Aadhar Card (for individuals), Certificate of Incorporation/registration, applicant's mobile number and email ID, proof of address, and a cancelled cheque from a current bank account. Directors' mobile numbers and PANs are needed for companies.

You need to register on the DGFT Portal, fill out the application with necessary details and attachments, confirm the terms and conditions, and sign the application via e-verification of Aadhar or a Digital Signature Certificate (Class 2/3).

A fee of 500/- is required for IEC registration. Upon payment, a payment receipt is generated, and the IEC certificate is granted almost instantaneously.