Importer Exporter Code Registration

Overview of Importer Exporter Code Registration

Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is a 10-digit business identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce. IEC is mandatory for any business or individual engaged in the import or export of goods or services from India. No business can lawfully clear customs, remit foreign currency abroad or receive foreign payments for exports without an IEC. The code is PAN-based, has lifetime validity and only needs annual confirmation on the DGFT portal.

Who needs an IEC?

• Any person or entity importing goods into India
• Any person or entity exporting goods from India
• Service providers receiving foreign currency payments where benefits under FTP are availed
• E-commerce sellers shipping internationally through marketplaces

Cases where IEC is not required

• Import / export by central and state government departments
• Import / export for personal use unrelated to trade, manufacturing or agriculture
• Import / export by notified charitable institutions

Why IEC is critical for international business

Without IEC, customs will not clear your shipments and banks will not process foreign-currency remittances against trade transactions. IEC also unlocks export-promotion benefits such as RoDTEP, Duty Drawback, EPCG and Advance Authorisation schemes, allowing exporters to be globally competitive.

Why choose KBP & Associates

• Mandatory for clearing customs on imports and exports
• Required to receive payments in foreign currency
• Unlocks export incentives, duty drawback and RoDTEP benefits
• Lifetime validity — one-time application
• Enables business to expand internationally
• No need for monthly returns or renewals

Documents required

• PAN card of the business / individual
• Aadhaar / Passport / Voter ID of the proprietor / partner / director
• Cancelled cheque or bank certificate (RBI Form ANF-2A)
• Address proof of business premises (rent agreement / electricity bill / sale deed)
• Email ID and mobile number for OTP verification
• Digital Signature Certificate (for companies and LLPs)

Our process

1. 1

   Document verification

   We review your KYC and business documents to confirm IEC eligibility.

2. 2

   Apply on DGFT portal

   Filing the ANF-2A application form on the DGFT portal with Aadhaar / DSC verification.

3. 3

   Government fee payment

   Pay the prescribed government fee online.

4. 4

   IEC allotment

   IEC is normally allotted electronically within 1-2 working days on successful verification.

5. 5

   Annual KYC update

   Confirm IEC details every year on the DGFT portal to keep it active — we send reminders and file it for you.