IEC Registration for Import & Export Businesses
IEC Registration is an important step for businesses entering international trade. Before importing or exporting goods from India, a business may need an Import Export Code (IEC). Issued through the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) system, the IEC is linked to the business PAN.
For import and export activities where an IEC is required, it may be needed for customs clearance and other trade formalities.LegalSewa makes the process easier by checking your documents and business details, reviewing the application, and filing it online through the DGFT system on your behalf.
Published On: 14 Oct, 2026
- Government Fee ₹500
- Application Review Before Submission
- IEC Application Assistance
- Online Support Across India
IEC Registration Form
Instructions
What is Import Export Code?
Quick ANSWER
An Import Export Code (IEC) is the unique code your business uses to buy and sell products outside India. It is a 10-character code issued through the DGFT system and linked to your PAN.
Business Identity
It identifies your business when you import goods from another country or export goods from India.
Customs Clearance
The code is used as part of the required customs clearance and trade formalities for international shipments.
Simple Example:
If your business buys products from China or sells products from India to a customer in the USA, you may need an IEC for the shipping, customs and other trade formalities.
NOTE: It is also commonly called an IE Code or Importer Exporter Code. These terms refer to the same identification code used in the DGFT system.
Important IEC Update: IEC does not need renewal, but DGFT requires an annual update of IEC details between April 1 and June 30. The update is free during this period. A ₹200 fee may apply if the update is completed after the prescribed period. If the annual update is not completed within the prescribed period, DGFT may deactivate the IEC until the required update is completed.
Do You Need an IEC for Your Business?
It mainly depends on your type of business activity. An IEC is generally required for importing or exporting goods, except where a DGFT exemption applies. The requirements can be different for businesses exporting services.
| Business Type | IEC Requirement | Main Reason / Benefit |
|---|---|---|
|
Product Import / Export |
Generally Mandatory |
Required for import/export of goods, subject to specific exemptions. |
|
IT, Software & Service Exporters |
Conditional |
May be required when claiming benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP). |
|
Startups & MSMEs |
Generally Mandatory |
Business size does not create a separate IEC exemption for relevant import/export activities. |
|
Personal Use / Certain Exempt Categories |
May Be Exempt |
Certain personal-use imports/exports and other exempt categories may not require an IEC. |
LegalSewa Safety Alert: Do not treat a commercial business import as a personal-use shipment to avoid compliance issues. Always check the relevant DGFT rules and exemptions before importing goods for your business.
Need help with your IEC application?
Get your registration handled safely through the DGFT system with LegalSewa.
Is an IEC the Same as an Import Export License?
No. An Import Export Code (IEC) and an Import Export License are different. Many businesses get confused because both are related to international trade, but they have different purposes.
- IEC (The Identification) - An IEC is a 10-character code that identifies a business for import and export activities.
- License (The Specific Permission): - An Import Export License is a separate DGFT authorisation that may be needed for restricted, controlled, or regulated products.
LegalSewa Alert: An active IEC does not automatically allow you to trade restricted or controlled goods. Certain SCOMET items and other regulated products may require additional DGFT authorisation.
Who Can Apply for IEC Registration?
Any business or entity in India planning to do international trade can apply for an Import Export Code (IEC) if it meets the DGFT requirements. You do not need to be a large company to start importing or exporting.
Common types include:
Proprietorship
A sole owner can apply using their PAN and basic business details.
Partnership Firm
A partnership firm can apply through the DGFT system for its import and export activities.
LLP (Limited Liability Partnership)
An LLP can apply using its business details and PAN.
Private Limited Company
Private Limited, Public Limited and One Person Companies (OPC) can apply.
Other Entities
Depending on DGFT rules, Trusts, Societies and HUFs (Hindu Undivided Families) may also apply.
What Documents and Details Are Needed for IEC Registration?
For IEC Registration, keep your PAN, business address details, bank account details and required verification details ready on the DGFT portal. The exact requirements may vary based on your business structure and application.
Here’s what to keep ready before you file:
- PAN - Business PAN, or the proprietor's PAN for a sole proprietorship.
- Business Address - Keep your registered business address details ready.
- Bank Account Proof - A cancelled cheque or bank certificate, as required.
- Verification - Aadhaar-based e-Sign or another required signing method, depending on the applicant and DGFT requirements.
Before You Apply:
Make sure your PAN, business address, and bank details match your records. Even a small mistake can cause delays. LegalSewa can review your information before you submit it.
LegalSewa Pro Tip: You may not need a DSC just to file your IEC application. If your Aadhaar is linked to your active mobile number, you can use Aadhaar OTP e-Sign for verification on the DGFT portal.
How LegalSewa Handles the IEC Registration Process?
You can apply for an IEC Registration yourself through the official DGFT website, or let LegalSewa handle the application work to save your time and reduce common mistakes.
Share Your Details
Send your basic business, applicant and contact details to LegalSewa.
We Review (Error Check)
We check your PAN, address and bank details to catch spelling mismatches before submission.
We Prepare & File
We prepare the application and file it through the DGFT portal.
IEC Certificate Issued
Once DGFT processes the application, we share your IEC certificate with you by WhatsApp or email.Once your certificate is ready, we send it to you by email or WhatsApp.
You can complete the application yourself through the official DGFT website. LegalSewa saves you time by handling the review, preparation, and filing on your behalf. Final processing and issuance are handled by DGFT.
What Does IEC Registration Cost?
The total cost for an IEC Code Registration has two parts: the DGFT government fee and LegalSewa’s consultancy fee.
| Fee Component | Amount | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
|
DGFT Government Fee |
₹500 |
IEC application fee |
|
LegalSewa Consultancy Fee |
₹1,999 |
Document review, PAN matching, and filing support |
|
Total |
₹2,499 |
Government fee + consultancy fee |
Government Fee and Consultancy Fee
The ₹500 DGFT government fee is separate from LegalSewa’s ₹1,999 consultancy fee. You can also apply yourself through the DGFT system and pay the government fee directly.
Important Note: LegalSewa is a private consultancy, not a government department or government-appointed IEC authority. Our fee covers document review, application preparation, and DGFT portal filing support.
Why IEC Registration Is Important for Import & Export
IEC Registration is important when a business plans to buy or sell goods across countries. It is used for key import, export, customs, and DGFT processes.
Import Goods into India
An IEC is used when bringing commercial goods into India and is needed for import and customs procedures.
Send Goods to Overseas Buyers
Businesses selling products outside India use their IEC for export filing and shipment-related work.
Complete DGFT Formalities
The IEC acts as a business identification number in the DGFT system for import and export activities.
Support Trade Payments
IEC details may be used for some banking and payment processes linked to international trade.
Foreign Trade Policy Benefits
An IEC may be needed to claim certain trade benefits or incentives under the Foreign Trade Policy, based on the scheme rules.
Note: Some restricted or controlled products may need extra DGFT permission, including certain SCOMET items
Common IEC Application Mistakes to Avoid
Small mistakes in an IEC application can cause delays or corrections. Check these details before submitting your application on the DGFT portal.
Wrong PAN or Business Details
Check your PAN, business name, address and other details before submission.
Wrong Bank Details
Check your bank account number, account name and bank proof carefully.
Incomplete Information
Fill in all required details correctly. Missing details may cause a query or correction.
Incorrect Applicant Details
Check the names and details of the proprietor, partners, directors, or other persons mentioned in the application.
Not Checking Before Submission
Review your IEC application and supporting documents once before filing.
Important: The DGFT application fee is ₹500. Check all details before payment and submission.
Small mistakes in an IEC application can cause delays or corrections. Check these details before submitting your application on the DGFT portal.
Why Businesses Choose LegalSewa for IEC Registration?
LegalSewa is a private consultancy that assists businesses with their IEC application, documents, and filing through the DGFT portal.
Application Review Before Submission
We check your PAN, business name, address, bank details, and applicant details before filing. We also check for name mismatches between the application and supporting documents.
Clear & Separate Fees
The ₹500 DGFT government fee and LegalSewa consultancy fee are shown separately, so you can clearly see the total cost.
Personal Assistance
Our team can assist with IEC documents, application details, and process-related questions.
Online Support Across India
You can complete the IEC registration process online without visiting our office.
Private Consultancy Disclosure: LegalSewa is a private business consultancy, not DGFT or a government department. We do not promise government approval or guaranteed IEC issuance. We check your details and assist with the IEC application and filing process.
Need help with your IEC application?
- CONTENT REVIEWED BY
Nitish Kumar Singh reviews the IEC information on this page, including DGFT requirements and application steps. He checks that import-export businesses can follow the guidance and understand the process.
- Last Reviewed: 14 Oct, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
You can check your IEC application status online through the DGFT portal. LegalSewa can also assist with status updates and keep you informed about your application.
IEC and GSTIN are separate business details. When GSTIN needs to be used with Customs, you can integrate or map your GSTIN with IEC through the ICEGATE portal.
Yes, businesses selling goods to buyers outside India through e-commerce platforms may need an IEC for export, customs, and shipping work, based on the shipment.
Check the query on the DGFT portal and submit the requested information or documents. If LegalSewa filed your application, our team can assist with the response.
Yes. After IEC Registration, you can view your IEC details and download or print the certificate through the DGFT portal when required.
Yes. If you stop your import or export business, you can surrender your IEC through the DGFT system using the available online surrender facility.
A mismatch between your IEC and PAN or business details can cause issues. Check the details carefully and follow the DGFT process for correction or modification where required.
For most Indian businesses, the IEC number is linked to the entity’s PAN. The IEC is issued and managed separately through the DGFT system.
Yes. The same IEC can be used for both import and export activities of the same business. You do not need separate IEC numbers for each activity.
Yes. IEC Registration and GST registration are separate. GST requirements depend on your business activity, turnover, and the rules that apply to your business.
Planning to Import or Export?
Get your IEC application ready with the right details from the start. LegalSewa reviews your information and assists with the DGFT filing process.