IEC Registration

🌍 IEC Registration – Your First Step to Global Trade

If you’re planning to start an import or export business in India, obtaining an IEC (Import Export Code) is your first legal requirement. Issued by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), this unique 10-digit code enables individuals and companies to conduct cross-border trade.

✅ Why is IEC Registration Important?

  • Mandatory for Imports/Exports: No import or export can be made legally in India without a valid IEC.
  • Global Market Access: IEC is required to clear customs, receive shipments, and send or receive international payments.
  • Lifetime Validity: Once issued, the IEC code is valid for a lifetime—no renewal required unless updates are made.
  • No Monthly Filings: Unlike GST, there's no return filing or compliance burden for IEC holders unless there's a change.

📋 Who Needs IEC?

IEC is mandatory for:

  • Exporters of goods or services
  • Importers of raw materials, finished products, or machinery
  • E-commerce traders dealing in international sales
  • Freelancers receiving payments from abroad (in some cases)

📋 Documents Required

For Individual / Proprietor
For Company / LLP / Firm
PAN Card of applicant
PAN Card of the entity
Aadhaar Card
Certificate of Incorporation
Passport-size photo
Partnership deed / MOA & AOA
Cancelled cheque / Bank statement
Cancelled cheque of business account
Address proof
Business address proof

🛠️ How to Register for IEC

  • Visit the DGFT Portal at https://dgft.gov.in
    Visit the DGFT Portal at https://dgft.gov.in
  • Create a login with your PAN and mobile/email OTP
  • Select ‘Apply for IEC’ from the dashboard
  • Fill application (ANF-2A) and upload documents
  • Pay the fee – ₹500 (can be paid online)
  • Receive IEC in your email within 1–3 working days

📅 Timeline & Validity

  • Processing Time: 1–3 working days
  • Validity: Lifetime (no renewal required)
  • Update Requirement: Any change in address, PAN, or entity type must be updated on DGFT portal

💡 Note

  • Businesses dealing only in services or technology export may not need IEC unless required by a foreign client or bank.
  • IEC is linked to PAN, so multiple codes for one PAN are not allowed.

🚀 Need Help with IEC Registration?

We assist individuals, startups, and companies with:

  • New IEC registration
  • Updating existing IEC
  • Linking IEC with AD Codes for custom clearance
  • Resolving DGFT portal issues

👉 Contact us today and begin your international trade journey with complete legal backing.