Vetri Audit - Other Compliances - IE Code Registration

What is IEC Registration?

The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique registration number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India. It is mandatory for individuals or businesses who wish to engage in the import or export of goods and services across international borders.

Whether you're a proprietor, partnership firm, LLP, private limited company, or corporate entity, IEC registration is the gateway to global trade opportunities.

Who Requires IEC?

IEC is compulsory for the following entities involved in cross-border trade:

Individuals / Sole Proprietors
Partnership Firms
Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)
Private/Public Limited Companies
Trusts, Societies, or HUFs (engaged in export/import)

Note: Even service providers receiving foreign payments must obtain IEC.

Documents Required for IEC Registration

For Individuals / Sole Proprietors:

PAN Card (of the individual)
Aadhaar Card / Passport / Voter ID
Address Proof (Electricity Bill, Rent Agreement, etc.)
Cancelled Cheque of Current Account
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) - optional but recommended

For Companies / LLPs:

PAN Card of the Company / LLP
Certificate of Incorporation
Address Proof of Registered Office
Cancelled Company Bank Cheque
Director’s or Partner’s Identity and Address Proof

Step-by-Step Online IEC Registration Process

You can apply for IEC online through the DGFT portal in a few simple steps:

1

Visit the DGFT Website:

https://www.dgft.gov.in/

2

Register on the Portal:

Use Aadhaar or OTP-based verification.

3

Login to the DGFT Dashboard

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4

Navigate to:

“Services” → “IEC Profile Management” → “Apply for IEC”

5

Fill Application Form ANF-2A:

Provide business, PAN, and bank details.

6

Upload Required Documents:

PDF or JPEG format, maximum size 5 MB each.

7

Pay Government Fee:

₹500 (non-refundable, via UPI, debit card, credit card, or net banking)

8

Submit the Application

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IEC is usually issued instantly, and you will receive it via email and your DGFT dashboard within 24 hours in most cases.

Validity and Annual Compliance

Lifetime Validity: Once issued, IEC remains valid for life—no renewal required.
Annual Update Required: Even if no changes occur, businesses must confirm/update their IEC details every year on the DGFT portal.

When is IEC Not Required?

IEC is not needed when:

Goods are imported or exported for personal use (not for trade).
Transactions occur within India only.
You operate under an SEZ Unit with separate compliances.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to register or update IEC may lead to:

Seizure or delayed clearance of goods at customs.
Inability to process international transactions.
Penalties and restriction from DGFT or Customs Department.

Key Benefits of IEC Registration

Enables Customs Clearance for import/export shipments.
Essential for Receiving Foreign Currency payments.
Global Market Access for businesses and service providers.
Access to Export Incentives under government schemes such as:
Upload Supporting Documents: Attach salary registers, challans, or other required files.
MEIS (Merchandise Exports from India Scheme)
SEIS (Service Exports from India Scheme)
RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products)

Need Assistance?

At VETRI AUDIT SERVICES PRIVATE LIMITED, we simplify the IEC registration process for you. From documentation to end-to-end filing and compliance, our experts ensure that your business is ready for international trade—seamlessly, securely, and swiftly.

Contact Us Today to get started with your IEC Registration!

IE Code Registration