Overview
The Import Export Code (IEC) is a mandatory 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce. Whether you are a solo entrepreneur shipping handicrafts abroad or a large corporation importing raw materials, the IEC is your primary license to participate in international trade. Since 2014, the IEC is integrated with your PAN, but a formal application and certificate from the DGFT remain mandatory to activate your export-import privileges.
At Vakalatexpert.in , we fast-track your global journey. We handle the entire digital application process, ensuring your IEC is linked correctly with ICEGATE (Customs) and your bank, so you can start trading without administrative delays.
Key Benefits of Holding an IEC (2026)
Lifetime Validity:
Once issued, the IEC is valid for the lifetime of the entity. There is no need for renewal, although an annual electronic update is now mandatory.
Export Incentives
A valid IEC is a prerequisite to claim benefits under government schemes like RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products) and other Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) incentives.
Legal Compliance
It ensures your foreign currency remittances (payments received from abroad) are compliant with FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act) regulations.
Documents Required for Registration
The process is 100% digital. You will need:
PAN Card
Of the individual (for Proprietorship) or the Entity (Company/LLP/Firm).
Identity Proof
Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or Passport of the proprietor/directors.
Bank Proof
A cancelled cheque with the entity's pre-printed name or a formal Bank Certificate.
Address Poorf
Rent agreement, Sale Deed, or utility bill (Electricity/Telephone) of the business premises.
Digital Signature (DSC)
Digital Signature (DSC): Required for Companies and LLPs. Sole proprietors can now authenticate using Aadhaar-based E-KYC
Our Registration Process
DGFT Portal Registration
We create and secure your user profile on the official DGFT website.
Form ANF 2A Filing
Our experts fill out the comprehensive application, including the selection of your ITC (HS) Codes (Product Categories).
Document Upload
We ensure all scanned copies meet the high-resolution requirements of the DGFT portal to prevent rejections.
Fee Payment
We facilitate the government application fee (₹500) through the integrated payment gateway.
Exclusive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It is not strictly mandatory for service exports unless you are taking benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy (like SEIS) or dealing with restricted technologies.
However, most banks require an IEC to process foreign inward remittances, so it is highly recommended.
No. Only one IEC is issued against a single PAN. Even if you have multiple branches, the same IEC (linked to your head office) will be used across India.
No. As of 2025-26, individual proprietors can use Aadhaar OTP for authentication. However, directors of Companies and partners in LLPs still require a Class 3 DSC for filing.
If you missed the annual update window, your IEC will be marked "Deactivated." We can help you "Revoke" the deactivation by updating your profile and paying the applicable late fees on the DGFT portal.
Affordable, confidential, and instant solutions for all your legal worries.