REGISTRATIONS
Import Export Code (IEC)
Support for new IEC applications, changes to business details and annual confirmation.
Discuss this requirement ↗Import Export Code (IEC)
What is IEC?
An IEC is a 10-character alpha-numeric number allotted to an entity (firm/company/LLP etc.) and is mandatory for undertaking any export/import activities. With a view to maintain the unique identity of an entity, consequent upon introduction / implementation of GST, IEC shall be same as Permanent Account Number(PAN) and shall be separately issued by DGFT based on an online application. No import or export shall be made without an IEC unless specifically exempted under FTP.
Who Needs an IEC?
Any business or individual wishing to import goods into India
Any business or individual wishing to export goods from India
E-commerce exporters and SMEs expanding into international markets
Scope of services:-
New IEC application filing on DGFT portal with complete documentation.
Procedure for transfer/change of IEC in case of Merger, Amalgamation, Demerger, Acquisition etc.,
IEC modification adding new branch offices, changing address, updating bank details, adding/removing directors/partners.
IEC updation with GST details for seamless linking with ICEGATE.
Surrender of IEC when business ceases import/export activities.
Resolution of IEC mismatches or errors on DGFT/Customs systems
YOUR QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
Import Export Code
Q1. What is IEC?
An Importer–Exporter Code (IEC) is a key business identification number mandatory for exporting from India or importing into India. No person can undertake import or export activities without obtaining an IEC, unless specifically exempted. For services exports, IEC is not required, except when the service provider avails benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP).
With the introduction of GST, the IEC issued is the same as the PAN of the firm. However, the IEC continues to be issued separately by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) based on an application. IEC can be obtained by entities of various types, including Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, Limited Company, Trust, HUF, and Society.
Q2. Who Needs an IEC?
Any business or individual wishing to import goods into India
Any business or individual wishing to export goods from India
E-commerce exporters and SMEs expanding into international markets
Q. What are the main documents required for import-export in India?
Key documents for import-export operations in India include:
Shipping Bill (for exports) or Bill of Entry (for imports) — filed with Customs for clearance.
Commercial Invoice cum Packing List — details of goods, quantity, value, and packaging.
Bill of Lading / Air Waybill — transport document issued by the carrier.
Certificate of Origin (COO) — certifies the country of origin, needed for FTA benefits and some import requirements.
IEC Code — the importer/exporter identification number.
GST Invoice / LUT — for GST compliance on exports.
FSSAI Certificate — for food and agricultural imports.
BIS Certificate / NOC — for products under mandatory BIS certification.
Q. How can I find out if my product requires a special import licence in India?
India's import policy is classified under the ITC(HS) Classification of Export and Import Items published by DGFT. Every item has an import policy designation:
Free: Can be imported without any licence.
Restricted: Requires a specific import licence from DGFT before import.
Prohibited: Cannot be imported under any circumstances (e.g., beef in some categories).
Canalised: Can only be imported by government-designated agencies.
For applicable policy, forms and current requirements: DGFT Foreign Trade Policy · DGFT application help. Eligibility and filing requirements are assessed for the relevant transaction and policy period.
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