What is IEC?
The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit business identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce. It is mandatory for any individual or entity importing into or exporting from India.
Who needs an IEC?
- Anyone importing goods or services into India
- Anyone exporting goods or services from India
- Anyone receiving payment in foreign currency for goods / services
- E-commerce sellers shipping internationally
- Freelancers billing foreign clients (for FIRA / FIRC compliance)
Exemptions
- Imports / exports for personal use (not for trade)
- Goods / services by ministries and government departments
- Specific notified charities
Benefits of having an IEC
- Unlocks international markets
- Eligibility for MEIS / RoDTEP / SEIS export incentives
- Access to export credit and factoring from banks
- Enables participation in global tenders
- Valid for a lifetime — no renewal needed
- Linked to PAN, so one IEC per PAN
Documents required
- PAN card (of individual or entity)
- Aadhaar (for proprietorship)
- Certificate of Incorporation (for companies / LLPs)
- Partnership deed (for firms)
- Address proof of business (rent / electricity / sale deed)
- Cancelled cheque or bank certificate
- Digital signature (optional but faster)
Application process
- Visit the DGFT portal and register as a new user
- Link your Aadhaar / DSC for authentication
- Navigate to Services → IEC Profile Management → Apply for IEC
- Fill Form ANF-2A with entity details, bank details
- Upload documents
- Pay the fee (₹500)
- Authenticate with Aadhaar OTP or DSC
- IEC is issued electronically within 1 working day
Annual update
Since 2021, IEC holders must update their profile every year between April and June — even if no change. Failure deactivates the IEC until updated.
Common mistakes
- Wrong bank details — IEC gets held up during inter-bank verification
- Branch mismatch on address proofs
- Not linking to GSTIN — mandatory for GST-registered businesses
- Missing the annual update window
We can get your IEC issued in under 24 hours. Apply through Bizotic.
