Import Export Code (IEC) Registration Online
Get your IEC from DGFT, usually within 1 to 2 working days, and start importing or exporting legally. We check your PAN, bank and address details first, file the application, and set up what comes next: the GST LUT, customs AD code and the yearly IEC update so your code never gets deactivated.
- IEC usually in 1–2 working days
- Lifetime validity, one per PAN
- Annual update reminders
- LUT, AD code and RCMC support
What is an Import Export Code (IEC)?
An Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-character business identity number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). It's needed to import or export goods from India, and to claim export benefits. Your IEC number is the same as your business PAN.
Customs won't clear your shipment, banks won't process foreign trade payments, and export promotion councils won't register you without it. Once issued, it's valid for life, as long as you confirm your details on the DGFT portal every year.
Getting the IEC is the easy part. Exporters also usually need a GST LUT, an AD code registered at each port, and sometimes an RCMC for benefits. We set those up with you, so your first shipment isn't held up.
Who needs an IEC, and who doesn't?
Any business that imports or exports goods commercially needs one, whatever its size or legal form.
Importers
Anyone bringing goods into India for business, from machinery and raw materials to products for resale.
Exporters of goods
Manufacturers, merchant exporters and traders shipping goods abroad by sea, air or courier.
Online sellers abroad
Marketplace and D2C sellers shipping to overseas customers, including through e-commerce export channels.
Service exporters
IT, consulting and other service exporters need IEC only to claim foreign trade benefits; otherwise it's optional.
Personal use: not needed
Goods imported or exported for personal use, not for trade or business, don't need an IEC.
Government & notified bodies
Government departments and certain notified charitable organisations are exempt and use permanent codes.
What do you need to start importing or exporting?
Answer a few questions to get your registration checklist, in the order you'll need it.
Your checklist
—
General guide. Some products need extra licences, certificates or are restricted; we check your product's HS code before you ship.
IEC registration plans
A fixed professional fee. The DGFT government fee of ₹500 is paid on the portal at actuals.
IEC Registration
For importers and exporters who just need the code.
₹999₹1,499+ GST + ₹500 govt fee · one-time
- PAN, bank and address details checked
- Application filed on the DGFT portal
- Aadhaar OTP or DSC e-sign support
- IEC certificate PDF, usually in 1–2 days
- Annual update reminder
- WhatsApp support
- GST LUT filing
- AD code and RCMC
IEC + Export Kit
Everything a new exporter needs before the first shipment.
₹2,999₹4,499+ GST + govt fees · one-time
- Everything in IEC Registration, plus:
- GST LUT for the current financial year
- AD code registration guidance for 1 port
- ICEGATE registration help
- HS code and export restrictions check for 1 product
- Export invoice and packing list formats
- First annual IEC update free
Exporter Pro
For exporters who want incentives and a year of support.
₹5,999₹7,999+ GST + govt and council fees
- Everything in IEC + Export Kit, plus:
- RCMC with one export promotion council
- RoDTEP and drawback onboarding guidance
- e-BRC and export proceeds tracking setup
- Certificate of origin guidance
- IEC modifications for 1 year
- Priority support
GST at 18% applies to our fee. IEC annual update or modification only: ₹499 + GST. RCMC fees are charged by the export promotion council. Customs brokers, freight and port charges are separate. Already have IEC and only need a LUT? See GST LUT filing.
Documents required for IEC
Simple and fully online. Scans or clear phone photos are fine.
Applicant
- PAN of the business (personal PAN for proprietors)
- Aadhaar of the proprietor, partner or director, with linked mobile
- Email ID and mobile number
- Digital signature, if you prefer to sign with DSC
Business address
- Rent agreement, sale deed or utility bill
- Owner's NOC, if rented
- GST certificate, if registered
- Branch addresses, if any
Bank & entity
- Cancelled cheque or bank certificate in the business name
- Certificate of incorporation or LLP agreement
- Partnership deed, for firms
- Trust deed or registration, for trusts and societies
How we get your IEC
Most IECs are issued within 1 to 2 working days of filing.
Share details10 minutes
Send PAN, Aadhaar, address proof and bank details on WhatsApp.
We check everythingSame day
We match names across PAN, bank and GST, and confirm whether you already have an IEC.
File on DGFTSame day
We prepare the application, you approve it with Aadhaar OTP or DSC, and the ₹500 fee is paid.
IEC issued1–2 days
Your IEC certificate is issued online. We send you the PDF and save your annual update date.
Ready to shipExport kit
On higher plans we file your GST LUT, guide AD code registration and apply for RCMC.
What exporters need after the IEC
The IEC opens the door. These keep shipments and payments moving.
- GSTLetter of Undertaking (LUT)Lets GST-registered exporters ship without paying IGST upfront. Filed each financial year.
- CustomsAD code at each portYour bank's authorised dealer code must be registered with customs at every port you export goods from.
- CustomsICEGATE registrationFor filing and tracking shipping bills and bills of entry online, often through your customs broker.
- BenefitsRCMC from an export promotion councilNeeded to claim most foreign trade policy benefits, from the council for your product.
- PaymentsExport proceeds and e-BRCReceive payment through your bank within the time allowed, and keep electronic realisation certificates for GST refunds and benefits.
The IEC annual update: don't let your code lapse
Every IEC holder must confirm or update their details on the DGFT portal between 1 April and 30 June each year, even if nothing has changed.
—
- 1Deactivated if missedIECs not updated by 30 June are deactivated, and customs won't clear your shipments until you fix it.
- 2ReactivationYou can reactivate by completing the update on the DGFT portal; we handle it the same day.
- 3Changes during the yearUpdate address, partners, directors, bank or branches whenever they change, not just in the window.
Start, Build and Grow with one team
Registrations, a global-ready website and marketing to reach overseas buyers.
Export-ready
IEC, GST, LUT, Udyam and ISO, so you're ready for overseas buyers and tenders.
GST LUT filingGlobal storefront
A website or online store that takes international enquiries and orders.
E-commerce storeFind buyers abroad
Google Ads, SEO and WhatsApp to reach and follow up with overseas buyers.
Google AdsImport Export Code: frequently asked questions
What is an Import Export Code (IEC)?+
A 10-character business identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). It's needed to import or export goods from India and to claim foreign trade policy benefits.
Is the IEC number the same as PAN?+
Yes. The IEC issued to a business is the same as its PAN. For a proprietorship, it is the proprietor's PAN.
What is the government fee for IEC?+
₹500, paid online on the DGFT portal. Our professional fee starts at ₹999 + GST.
How long does it take to get an IEC?+
Usually 1 to 2 working days after the application is submitted with correct details. Many are issued the same day.
What is the validity of an IEC?+
It is valid for life, but must be updated or confirmed on the DGFT portal every year between April and June. If not, it is deactivated until updated.
What happens if I miss the IEC annual update?+
Your IEC is deactivated, and customs won't clear shipments under it. You can reactivate it by completing the update on the DGFT portal.
Who needs an IEC?+
Any business importing or exporting goods for trade. Service exporters need it only to claim foreign trade benefits.
Who doesn't need an IEC?+
Individuals importing or exporting goods for personal use, government departments, and certain notified charitable organisations. Service exporters not claiming benefits can also do without one.
Can an individual get an IEC?+
Yes. An individual can get an IEC in their own PAN as a proprietor, even without a registered company or firm.
Is GST registration needed for IEC?+
No, IEC can be issued without GST. But most exporters of goods need GST registration, and a GST LUT lets you export without paying IGST upfront.
Can I have more than one IEC?+
No. Only one IEC is issued per PAN. Branches and additional units are added to the same IEC.
What documents are needed for IEC?+
PAN of the business, Aadhaar of the proprietor, partner or director, proof of business address, a cancelled cheque or bank certificate, and the incorporation certificate, LLP agreement or partnership deed where applicable.
Do I need an IEC to sell abroad on e-commerce marketplaces?+
Yes. Exporting goods to overseas customers through marketplaces or your own website requires an IEC, along with the right customs and GST setup.
What is an AD code and why is it needed?+
The authorised dealer code of your bank, which must be registered with customs at each port you export goods from. Without it, shipping bills can't be processed for export benefits and payments.
What is RCMC?+
A Registration-cum-Membership Certificate from the export promotion council for your product. It is needed to claim most benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy.
Can I change details in my IEC later?+
Yes. Address, partners, directors, bank details and branches can be modified online on the DGFT portal. Our IEC modification service costs ₹499 + GST.
Do I need IEC to import goods for my own use?+
No. Goods imported for personal use, not connected to trade or business, don't need an IEC.
Can IBACT help with customs clearance and shipping?+
We handle IEC, GST, LUT and DGFT registrations and guide you on AD code and RCMC. Customs clearance and freight are handled by a licensed customs broker and forwarder, whom we can coordinate with.
Ship your first order with the paperwork done
Get your IEC in 1 to 2 days, plus the LUT and customs setup your first shipment needs.
IBACT Digital (IBACT Innovations Pvt Ltd) is a private consultancy, not a government body. IEC is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, and you can apply directly on the DGFT portal; our fee is for professional assistance. The ₹500 government fee is extra. We are not a customs broker or freight forwarder. The export checklist is a general guide; product-specific licences and restrictions may apply.