Expert Advisory & Annual Update Filing Support by Vetri Audit Services Pvt. Ltd.
Import Export Code (IEC) is a mandatory registration for any business engaging in import or export activities in India. While IEC does not require the filing of periodic returns like GST or Income Tax, it does carry important annual compliance requirements enforced by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
Our team at Vetri Audit Services Private Limited ensures that your IEC remains compliant and active throughout the year — avoiding any disruption in your import/export operations.
Does IEC Require Return Filing?
Unlike other statutory registrations such as GST, FSSAI, or MCA, the Import Export Code (IEC) does not require monthly, quarterly, or annual return filings. However, annual updates and related regulatory compliances must be fulfilled to avoid penalties or deactivation of the IEC.
IEC Code Compliance Requirements
Annual Update of IEC (Mandatory Since 2021)
As per DGFT Notification No. 58/2015-2020, every IEC holder must annually update or confirm their IEC details, regardless of whether there are changes in the data.
| Compliance Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Who must file | All IEC holders (Importers & Exporters) |
| Due date | On or before June 30 every year |
| What to update | Business details (confirm or modify) |
| Platform | DGFT Portal |
| Fees | No filing fee charged |
| Non-compliance effect | IEC is deactivated until updated |
Note: Even if there are no changes, you must log in and confirm the existing details before the deadline.
Related Compliances (GST, Customs & Special Schemes)
While IEC on its own does not require return filing, businesses using their IEC for trade may be subject to other compliance regimes:
| Regulation | Filing Requirement |
|---|---|
| GST (if registered) | Monthly/quarterly GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B filings |
| Customs | File Bill of Entry (for imports) / Shipping Bill (for exports) |
| SEZ / EOU / Advance License | Submit returns to the respective Development Commissioner |
How to File IEC Annual Update
Ensure your IEC is active and compliant in 6 easy steps:
- Visit the DGFT portal.
- Log in using your IEC credentials.
- Go to "IEC Profile Management".
- Click on “Update IEC”.
- Review and update details as necessary.
- Submit and download the confirmation receipt.
We provide end-to-end assistance for filing and confirmation with a detailed compliance report.
Consequences of Not Updating IEC
| Issue | Result |
|---|---|
| Missed annual update | IEC will be deactivated on DGFT portal |
| Repeated non-compliance | Delays in customs clearance, loss of incentives |
| Using deactivated IEC | Shipment may be rejected at customs checkpoints |
Pro Tip from Vetri Audit Services
Even if your business has no changes, you must log in and confirm your IEC details before June 30 every year. Non-filing is treated as non-compliance — don’t wait for a shipment to get stuck at customs to take action!
Need Help With IEC Compliance?
We offer:
- IEC Annual Update Filing
- IEC Modification Services
- Import/Export Regulatory Advisory
- Support with DGFT, Customs, GST, and SEZ filings
Contact Vetri Audit Services Private Limited to keep your trade operations smooth, compliant, and future-ready.
Contact us today for a consultation!
