Licenses & Registrations

IEC
Registration

Obtain your Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT - mandatory for all businesses involved in international trade. Simple online process with lifetime validity.

100% Online Process
2–5 Working Days
Lifetime Validity
Overview

What is IEC Registration?

Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It is mandatory for any person or entity engaged in import or export of goods and services.

IEC is required for customs clearance, sending or receiving goods overseas, and for availing export benefits, incentives, and drawback schemes. Banks also require IEC for processing foreign trade transactions.

Once issued, the IEC is valid for a lifetime and does not require renewal. The application process is fully online through the DGFT portal and can be completed within a few working days.

Mandatory for Trade

Required by law for any cross-border business transaction

No Renewal

IEC is valid for a lifetime - issued once, no renewal needed

Avail Export Benefits

Claim duty drawback, export incentives & GST refunds

Quick Online Process

Fully digital DGFT application with minimal documentation

Why Choose

Benefits of IEC Registration

Legal Requirement

IEC is mandatory under the Foreign Trade Policy for any business importing or exporting goods or services. Operating without IEC can result in customs delays and penalties.

Lifetime Validity

Unlike many business registrations, IEC is valid for a lifetime with no renewal requirements. Once issued, you can use it indefinitely for international trade.

Export Incentives

IEC holders can avail export promotion schemes, duty drawback, advance authorization, EPCG scheme, and MEIS/SEIS benefits from the DGFT.

Customs Clearance

IEC is mandatory for customs clearance of imported/exported goods. Without IEC, shipments can be held at the port, leading to demurrage charges and delays.

Banking & Forex

Banks require IEC for processing foreign inward remittances (FIRCs), opening letters of credit (LC), and handling forex transactions related to trade.

Global Market Access

IEC opens doors to international markets, allowing businesses to source raw materials globally, sell to foreign buyers, and participate in cross-border trade.

Requirements

Documents Required

For Individuals / Proprietors

  • PAN Card of the applicant
  • Aadhaar Card / Passport / Voter ID
  • Bank account statement / Canceled cheque
  • Business address proof (electricity bill / rent agreement)
  • Passport-size photograph

For Companies / LLPs / Firms

  • Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership deed
  • PAN Card of the company / firm
  • MOA & AOA / LLP Agreement
  • Board resolution for IEC application
  • Canceled cheque of business bank account
How It Works

Registration Process

1

Fill Application

Complete the online IEC application form on DGFT portal

2

Upload Documents

Submit PAN card, address proof & bank details online

3

Digital Signature

Sign the application using DSC or Aadhaar OTP

4

DGFT Processing

Application verified and approved by DGFT

5

IEC Issuance

Receive 10-digit IEC certificate via email

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Any individual, company, LLP, partnership firm, or trust that intends to import or export goods or services from India must obtain an IEC. It is also required for e-commerce exports, dropshipping, and service exports (IT, consulting, etc.).
Yes, IEC is valid for a lifetime once issued. There is no requirement for annual renewal or re-registration. However, the IEC must be updated if there is a change in business constitution, address, or PAN details.
Yes, individuals (sole proprietors) can apply for IEC in their personal name. You do not need to have a registered company to obtain an IEC. Even casual exporters and individuals selling on international e-commerce platforms can apply.
The IEC application is processed online and typically takes 2–5 working days for issuance. In many cases, the IEC is issued instantly upon successful verification through the DGFT's auto-validation system.

Get Your IEC Today

Start your international trade journey with expert IEC registration assistance from our team - fast processing and lifetime validity.