Application for New / Modify Import / Export Code (IEC)

What is IEC?

An Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) is the primary business identification number mandatory for any person or company engaged in the import or export of goods from India. Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), the IEC is a 10-digit code identical to the PAN number of the entity (post-GST integration). 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
  • Service exporters availing benefits under Foreign Trade Policy (SEIS, etc.)
  • E-commerce exporters and SMEs expanding into international markets

Pre-Requisites for IEC Application

  • Valid PAN card in the name of the firm/individual
  • Bank account in the name of the firm at a recognised commercial bank
  • Valid address proof for the principal place of business
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or AADHAAR-based e-KYC for online verification

Our IEC Services

  1. New IEC application filing on DGFT portal with complete documentation
  2. IEC modification — adding new branch offices, changing address, updating bank details, adding/removing directors/partners
  3. IEC updation with GST details for seamless linking with ICEGATE
  4. Surrender of IEC when business ceases import/export activities
  5. Resolution of IEC mismatches or errors on DGFT/Customs systems

Frequently Asked Questions – IEC

Q: How long does IEC registration take?

New IEC is typically issued online within 1–3 working days if all documents are in order. DGFT processes IEC applications on a straight-through processing (STP) basis, making it one of the fastest licences to obtain.

Q: Does IEC need annual renewal?

Yes. With effect from 2021, IEC must be updated/renewed on the DGFT portal every year between April and June. If not updated, the IEC is deactivated. We handle IEC annual updation for all our retainer clients.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is an IEC (Importer Exporter Code) and why is it mandatory in India?

An Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is a 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It is the primary business identification number required for any person or business engaged in import or export of goods and services.

IEC is mandatory because no import or export can be made without it (unless specifically exempted under the Foreign Trade Policy). It is required for Customs clearance, DGFT scheme applications, and receiving or making foreign trade payments through banks.

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.

What does DGFT do and why is it important for importers and exporters?

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is the apex government body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry responsible for formulating and implementing India's Foreign Trade Policy (FTP). Its key roles include:

  • Issuing and managing Importer Exporter Codes (IEC)
  • Administering export incentive schemes: Advance Authorisation, EPCG, RoDTEP, RoSCTL, SEIS
  • Granting export licences for restricted and SCOMET items
  • Issuing import licences for restricted items
  • Recognising Star Export Houses (status holders)
  • Fixing Standard Input Output Norms (SION)

Every Indian exporter and importer must interact with DGFT at some point — whether for obtaining an IEC, applying for export incentives, or seeking licences for restricted goods.

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.

You can check the policy on the DGFT website by your ITC(HS) code, or contact Samarth EXIM for a free preliminary import policy check for your specific product.

What is the difference between Advance Authorisation and EPCG scheme?

Both are export promotion schemes under India's Foreign Trade Policy, but they serve different purposes:

  • Advance Authorisation (AA): Allows duty-free import of raw materials and inputs that are physically used in manufacturing export goods. The export obligation is the value of goods exported. Applicable before production.
  • EPCG (Export Promotion Capital Goods): Allows duty-free import of capital goods (machinery, equipment, tools) used in production of export goods. The export obligation is 6 times the duty saved, over 6 years.

They can be used together — EPCG for capital goods and Advance Authorisation for input materials — giving double duty savings on both machinery and raw materials.

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