Import Export Code

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Import Export Code

Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique code issued by the DGFT, mandatory for businesses or individuals involved in importing or exporting goods and services from India. It is a one-time registration, valid for a lifetime, and essential for customs clearance and international trade benefits.

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Import Export Code (IEC):

Obtain your IEC to legally import or export goods, required for international trade and customs clearance in India.

Import Export Code & ICEGATE Registration:

Get both IEC and ICEGATE registration for seamless customs filing, efficient import-export operations, and hassle-free international trade.

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Documents Required IEC

Monthly GST Returns (GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, GSTR-2A/2B)

For reporting outward supplies, tax paid, and matching input tax credit (ITC).

Annual Financial Statements

Includes Profit & Loss Account and Balance Sheet to reconcile with GST data.

GSTR-9C (if applicable)

Reconciliation Statement certified by a CA (mandatory if turnover exceeds ₹5 crore).

Sales & Purchase Registers

Detailed records of sales and purchases for data verification and reconciliation.

Input Tax Credit & GST Ledgers

ITC ledger, Electronic Cash Ledger, and Credit Ledger from GST portal.

Tax Payment Challans & Adjustments

Any challans for tax paid outside returns, and details of debit/credit notes or amendments.

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Import Export Code (IEC)

Import Export Code (IEC) registration is a mandatory requirement for any individual or business looking to engage in international trade in India. Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), the IEC serves as a unique 10-digit identification number that enables businesses to import goods into India or export goods out of the country. The entire IEC registration process is now online, making it easier, faster, and more accessible for businesses. At Bharat e-Filing, we simplify this process by handling documentation, application submission, and compliance, so you can focus on growing your global trade.

What is Import Export Code

The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique idenƟficaƟon number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India. It is a mandatory requirement for any business or individual engaged in imporƟng or exporƟng goods and services to or from India. Without an IEC, no import or export transacƟon can be legally processed. The IEC is valid for a lifeƟme and does not require renewal. It also serves as a key document for customs clearance, bank transacƟons related to internaƟonal trade, and availing export benefits from the government or financial insƟtuƟons.

Eligibility for IEC Registration

An Import Export Code (IEC) can be obtained by various types of business entities legally operating in India. The eligible categories include: .

  • Sole Proprietorship Firms
  • Partnership Firms
  • Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)
  • Private or Public Limited Companies
  • Trusts and Societies
  • Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs)

Regardless of the entity type, each must comply with the regulatory prerequisites outlined by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

Essential Requirements for Obtaining an IEC

To apply for an Import Export Code, the following condiƟons must be met:

  • The applicant must be registered on the DGFT portal and have valid login credentials.
  • The IEC application must be submitted on behalf of a valid business entity such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLP, company, trust, society, or HUF.
  • The entity must possess an active Permanent Account Number (PAN) issued by the Income Tax Department, with details matching the PAN database (such as name and date of incorporation/birth).
  • A current bank account in the name of the applicant entity is mandatory.
  • A valid and verifiable business address is also required prior to initiating the application process.

Meeting these prerequisites is essential to ensure smooth and lawful issuance of the IEC from DGFT.

Why Import Export Code (IEC) is Essential for Your Business

The Import Export Code (IEC) is a crucial license for businesses aiming to expand their operations into the global marketplace. Whether you are exporting goods or services, having a valid IEC is mandatory under Indian law. It acts as the primary authorization to initiate and conduct cross-border trade legally and efficiently. Below are the key benefits of obtaining an IEC:

Access to International Markets

IEC registration, issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), empowers businesses to explore and trade in global markets. It facilitates smooth entry into international trade channels, thereby enhancing business growth and global reach.

Simplified Online Registration Process

Applying for an IEC is a fully digital process through the DGFT portal. It requires minimal paperwork, making it a convenient and efficient experience for business owners.

Minimal Documentation

The documentation required for IEC registration is straighƞorward. Basic documents like PAN, address proof, and bank details are sufficient, ensuring a quick and hassle-free application process.

Permanent Registration

Applying for an IEC is a fully digital process through the DGFT portal. It requires minimal paperwork, making it a convenient and efficient experience for business owners.

Prevention of Unlawful Trade Practices

As the IEC application demands verified and authentic details of the applicant, it acts as a safeguard against unauthorized or illegal movement of goods across borders, thereby enhancing transparency in trade.

Eligibility for Government Benefits

Registered importers and exporters become eligible for various schemes and benefits from the Customs Department, Export Promotion Councils, and other government bodies. These may include subsidies, duty exemptions, and tax rebates under GST through mechanisms such as LUT filings or refund claims on tax-paid exports.

No Post-Registration Compliance Burden

Unlike other registrations, the IEC does not require the filing of periodic returns or renewals. Once granted, it remains active unless voluntarily surrendered or revoked by the authorities, ensuring low maintenance for compliance.

Validity of IEC Registration under DGFT

The Importer Exporter Code (IEC) issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is a onetime registration with lifetime validity. Once allotted, there is no need for renewal, periodic updates, or recurring filings, provided there are no changes in the business details or unless the IEC is voluntarily surrendered or cancelled by the authorities.

Unlike other registrations such as GST or Provident Fund, IEC registration does not require the business to comply with regular return filing or ongoing regulatory maintenance. This makes it a hassle-free and efficient license for businesses engaged in international trade.

At Bharat e-Filing, we recommend that all businesses intending to import or export goods or services obtain their IEC soon after incorporation, ensuring smooth entry into global markets with full legal compliance.

Simplify Your IEC Registration with Bharat e-Filing

At Bharat e-Filing, we offer end-to-end support to help businesses seamlessly obtain their Importer Exporter Code (IEC) in India. Our professional services are designed to make the enƟre process efficient, compliant, and stress-free.

Comprehensive Guidance

Our team provides clear and up-to-date information about the IEC registration process, including eligibility requirements, applicable regulations, and a checklist of mandatory documents.

Document Preparation Assistance

We help prepare your application and all supporting documents in line with the guidelines of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), ensuring accuracy and compliance.

Application Filing

Bharat e-Filing submits your IEC application on your behalf through the official DGFT portal, minimizing errors and avoiding unnecessary delays in processing.

Timely Updates & Tracking

We actively monitor your application status and coordinate with the relevant authorities to address any issues, ensuring faster approval and minimizing turnaround time.

IEC Certificate Delivery

Once approved, we assist in downloading and delivering your official IEC certificate and ensure you’re equipped to begin lawful international trade.

Expert Advisory Support

Our experienced consultants are available to resolve any questions related to IEC registration, DGFT compliance, or general import-export procedures.

Choosing Bharat e-Filing ensures that your IEC application is managed with precision and professionalism, allowing you to confidently focus on scaling your import-export operations.

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Customer Reviews For IEC Code

Our clients trust Bharat e-Filing for reliable, efficient and expert-led on time services. Here’s what they have to say.

Aviral Sanadhya IT Professional, Gurugram

Best ITR filing experience ever!
Filing ITR used to stress me out every year. But this year with Bharat e-Filing, it was quick, smooth, and fully online. I just uploaded my Form 16, and their team took care of everything. No calls, no confusion—just expert help and fast service. Perfect for salaried people like me!

Sakir khan Marketing Executive, Delhi

Saved my time and explained everything!
I had switched jobs this year and wasn’t sure how to file correctly. Bharat e-Filing experts explained things patiently, merged my income, and filed my ITR smoothly. Filing taxes doesn’t scare me anymore!

Jyoti Singh Business owner, Lucknow

Quick, reliable, and absolutely stress-free
This was my first time using Bharat e-Filing, and I’m genuinely impressed. As a small business owner in Lucknow, I’ve dealt with so many complicated compliance issues—but their team made GST and ITR filing effortless. Everything was smooth, digital, and stress-free. After this experience, I’ve decided to hand over all my compliance work to them. Finally found a service I can trust!

Jairaj Singh Chouhan Freelance Graphic Designer, Indore

Finally, someone who understands freelancers!
As a freelance graphic designer, I always struggled with tax filing — invoices, deductions, TDS… it was a mess. Bharat e-Filing not only filed my return but explained every detail clearly. I even got advice on saving more next year! Absolute bliss.

Yash Goswami Full-time Trader, Ahmedabad

They made F&O taxation easy!
I trade in stocks and F&O regularly, and tax filing used to confuse me — especially choosing the right ITR. Bharat e-Filing understood my broker P&L and took care of everything. They even helped me carry forward losses!

Importer Exporter Code (IEC) – FAQs

IEC is a 10-digit identification number issued by the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) to businesses or individuals for engaging in import and export activities in India.

Any individual or business entity involved in the import or export of goods or services from India must obtain an IEC.

Yes, it is a legal requirement under the Foreign Trade Policy. Without IEC, customs clearance and international transactions are not permitted.

Yes. Bharat e-Filing offers a fully digital process to apply for IEC registration through the DGFT
portal.

Key documents include PAN card of the business, identity and address proof of the applicant,
business address proof, and bank certificate or cancelled cheque.

No, IEC does not involve any ongoing compliance such as return filing, unlike GST or Income
Tax.

With Bharat e-Filing’s assistance, you can expect your IEC to be issued within 1–3 working
days after submission.

No, IEC is valid for a lifetime and does not require renewal unless voluntarily surrendered or revoked.

No. A separate IEC is required for each registered business entity with a unique PAN.

Yes, even individuals acting as sole proprietors can apply for and obtain IEC in their name.

Yes, if a business is receiving foreign currency for services rendered, IEC is required.

Engaging in foreign trade without a valid IEC can lead to penalties, confiscation of goods, or
denial of customs clearance.

Yes. You can update your IEC details (like address or contact info) through the DGFT portal. Bharat e-Filing can assist in the amendment process.

Yes, there is a nominal government fee. Bharat e-Filing also charges a professional fee for
seamless application and support.

We provide end-to-end support—guidance, document preparation, application filing, DGFT
follow-ups, and certificate delivery—to ensure a smooth IEC registration process.

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