Overview
What IEC registration gives you
The Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is the code the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issues to a business that imports or exports goods. Customs clearance and DGFT schemes are linked to it.
IEC registration is done online on the DGFT portal. The IEC is linked to the PAN of the business: one PAN, one IEC, covering all its branches and units.
Who needs it
Who needs IEC registration
Any business that imports or exports goods as part of its trade, even occasionally. This includes proprietors, firms, LLPs and companies.
We file IEC applications for all of these business types.
Documents
Documents for IEC registration
- PAN of the business, or of the proprietor
- Proof of the business address
- A cancelled cheque with the business name printed on it, or a bank certificate
- Mobile number and email for the DGFT login
- A digital signature (DSC) or Aadhaar-based e-sign to sign the application
Good to have
Registrations that help
Many importers and exporters also need GST registration, and small exporters often hold MSME (Udyam) registration.
Keep the name and address the same on your PAN, bank account and GST records. Mismatches slow the application.
Process
How IEC registration works with Complianto
- 01
Fill the form
Tell us about your business and what you plan to import or export.
- 02
Check documents
We check that your PAN, address and bank details match before we apply.
- 03
Apply on DGFT
We prepare the online application for you to sign, and the government fee is paid online.
- 04
Get your IEC
DGFT issues the IEC online. You can download the e-IEC from the DGFT dashboard.
Yearly update
Keep your IEC active: the April to June update
Every year, between April and June
Every IEC holder must update or confirm the IEC details online on the DGFT portal during April to June, even if nothing has changed. An IEC that is not updated can be deactivated. A deactivated IEC cannot be used for customs clearance.
We file the yearly update for IEC holders, whether or not we filed the original IEC. Contact our team for the fee.
Changes and reactivation
Changing, reactivating or surrendering an IEC
- Details changeIf your address, bank account, partners, directors or other main details change, update the IEC online within 30 days.
- IEC deactivatedUpdate the IEC details online. DGFT reactivates it once the update is accepted.
- Business stops tradingThe IEC can be surrendered online, once your DGFT authorisations and obligations are closed.
We also handle changes to IEC details and reactivation of a deactivated IEC. Contact our team for the fee.
Lost the DGFT login set up by a former employee? Sort it out well before April. Recovering access takes longer than the update.
Who needs IEC registration?
Any business that imports or exports goods as part of its trade. Imports or exports for personal use, and government departments, are among the exempt cases.
Where do I apply for an IEC?
Online on the portal of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). The IEC is issued online.
Does an IEC need renewal?
No. An IEC does not expire, but it must be updated or confirmed online every year between April and June.
What happens if I miss the yearly IEC update?
The IEC can be deactivated, and a deactivated IEC cannot be used for customs clearance. Updating the details online reactivates it.
Can one business have more than one IEC?
No. One PAN has one IEC, which covers all branches, units and factories of the business.
Do I need GST registration to get an IEC?
The IEC is linked to your PAN. Whether you need GST depends on your business, so we check it with you.
How do I change details in my IEC?
Update them online on the DGFT portal within 30 days of the change, for example a new address or bank account.
Is Complianto a government body or a CA firm?
Neither. Complianto is a compliance facilitation platform operated by Mentorcorp Private Limited. You can also apply directly on the DGFT portal without our fee.
More services
Other services you may need
GST Registration
Get your GSTIN and start billing.
GST Returns
Monthly and quarterly GST filing.
MSME Registration
Udyam registration for small businesses.
Digital Signature (DSC)
Sign DGFT and other applications.
Business Registration
Pick and register the right structure.
Private Limited Company
Register your business as a company.
