IEC Registration in India 2026: Everything You Need to Know

What is IEC (Import Export Code)?

The Import Export Code (IEC) is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric code issued by the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) under the Ministry of Commerce. It is mandatory for any individual or business entity that wishes to import or export goods and services from India.

Without an IEC, customs authorities will not clear your shipment, banks will not process foreign remittances, and you will be unable to claim any export incentives like RoDTEP, Duty Drawback, or GST refund.

Who Needs an IEC?

• Manufacturers who want to export their products
• Trading companies buying and selling internationally
• Service exporters (IT, consulting, design, etc.)
• Individuals importing goods for personal or commercial use above threshold limits
• E-commerce sellers exporting through platforms like Amazon Global or Flipkart Global

Documents Required for IEC Registration

• PAN Card (mandatory)
• Aadhaar Card / Passport (for individuals) or Certificate of Incorporation (for companies)
• GST Registration Certificate
• Cancelled cheque or bank certificate (for bank account details)
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) — Class 2 or Class 3
• Address proof of business premises

Step-by-Step IEC Registration Process

Step 1: Visit the DGFT portal at dgft.gov.in and create a login account using your PAN and Aadhaar-linked mobile number.

Step 2: Go to Services → IEC → Apply for IEC. Fill in the application form with your business details, address, and bank account information.

Step 3: Upload the required documents in the specified format (PDF, under 5MB each).

Step 4: Pay the application fee of ₹500 online through the payment gateway.

Step 5: Sign the application digitally using your DSC or Aadhaar OTP-based e-signature.

Step 6: Submit the application. DGFT verifies details against PAN and GST databases automatically. IEC is typically issued within 2–3 working days via email.

IEC Annual Update (Mandatory)

Since April 2021, DGFT has made it mandatory to update your IEC profile every year between April and June, even if there are no changes. Failure to update results in deactivation of your IEC. Always ensure your IEC is active before filing shipping bills.

IEC Modification

If your business details change — address, directors, bank account — you must update your IEC on the DGFT portal immediately. Mismatches between IEC details and shipping bill details can cause clearance delays.