Get IEC Registration with 5 Easy Steps

Expanding your business internationally begins with IEC (Importer Exporter Code) registration. It is a mandatory license for anyone involved in importing or exporting from India, issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). This 10-digit code is essential for customs clearance, shipping, and receiving foreign currency. The process is simple, online, and quick through the official DGFT portal. In this article, you will learn about how to get IEC registration with 5 easy steps in detail.

What is Importer Exporter Code (IEC)?

The Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is a unique 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It is a mandatory license for any individual or business that wants to import goods into or export goods out of India.  It acts like a business passport for international trade.

Without this code, you cannot clear shipments through customs or receive foreign currency in your bank account. Banks need the IEC to process payments for import/export transactions, and customs officials use it to verify legal trade. It also helps the government track export and import data and prevent illegal trade. Whether you are a small online seller or a large exporter, IEC is mandatory for cross-border trade.

Who Should Apply for an IEC?

Anyone who wants to start importing or exporting goods and services from India must apply for an Importer Exporter Code (IEC). This includes individuals, sole proprietors, partnership firms, companies, LLPs, and trusts involved in cross-border trade. Whether you are running a small business, an e-commerce store, or a large export house, IEC is mandatory to carry out international transactions legally.

Even freelancers and online sellers who provide services to clients outside India (like IT, design, or consultancy) may require an IEC to receive foreign payments. Without this code, you cannot clear goods through Indian customs or receive international payments via banks. There is no need for a business setup or GST to apply for an IEC, as individuals can apply using their PAN card.

How to Get IEC Registration with 5 Easy Steps?

The following details include the process to get the importer exporter code registration:

Step 1: Visit the DGFT Official Website

• Start by visiting the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) portal:
• Click on ‘Apply for IEC’ under the “Services” section. You will need to register on the portal using your mobile number and email ID linked with your Aadhaar or business.
• Make sure your mobile number and email are active, as you will receive OTPs during the registration process.

Step 2: Log in and Fill Out the IEC Application Form

Once registered, log in to your DGFT dashboard and select “IEC Application”.

Fill in the required details:

• Applicant’s name (individual or company)
• PAN number (mandatory)
• Address of business or residence
• Bank account details (with IFSC code)
• Nature of business (like export/import of goods/services)

You can apply as:

• Individual/Sole Proprietor
• Partnership Firm
• Private Limited Company
• LLP or Trust

PAN will act as the IEC number, so ensure the correct PAN is used.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents (Simple List)

The DGFT requires only a few basic documents, which should be uploaded in PDF or JPEG format.

Here are the documents you may need:

• PAN card of the applicant or business
• Address proof (electricity bill, rent agreement, or Aadhaar)
• Cancelled cheque or bank certificate (to verify account details)
• Digital photograph of the applicant (passport size)

Optional documents are as follows:

• Certificate of Incorporation (for Companies/LLPs)
• Partnership Deed (for Partnership Firms)
• Board Resolution or Authorisation Letter (for authorised signatory)

Step 4: Pay the IEC Registration Fee Online

Once all details are filled and documents uploaded, proceed to the payment section.

• Fee: Rs. 500 (as per DGFT’s latest guidelines)
• Mode of Payment: Net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI

After successfully paying the fee, a payment confirmation slip will be generated. Keep it for your records. Payment is non-refundable and necessary to process your application.

Step 5: Submit and Track Your IEC Application

After payment, click on ‘Submit’ to complete your application. You will receive an Acknowledgement Reference Number (ARN) via email and phone. IEC is usually issued within 24–48 working hours, and you can download the soft copy directly from your DGFT account. No physical IEC certificate is sent, as only digital copies are issued.

Benefits of IEC Registration

Let us explore the key benefits of having an IEC and how it can help you grow your business beyond borders.

1. Legal License for International Trade

IEC is mandatory for anyone who wants to start importing or exporting goods and services from India. Without it, you cannot legally conduct cross-border transactions. Customs departments and banks will not process shipments or international payments without a valid IEC. As per DGFT guidelines, IEC is a legal requirement under the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992.

2. Customs Clearance Made Easy

When you import or export goods, customs authorities require your IEC for clearance. It helps in identifying your business as a registered trader. Without this code, customs will not release your shipment or allow goods to enter or exit India. IEC simplifies documentation and reduces delays at ports and borders.

3. Receive International Payments Hassle-Free

Banks ask for your IEC before processing any international payment related to exports or imports. It ensures that your foreign currency transactions are traceable and compliant with Indian trade laws. If you offer freelance services or sell online internationally, an IEC allows you to receive foreign income through legal banking channels.

4. No Compliance Burden or Renewal Required

IEC is issued for a lifetime—there is no need for renewal or complicated post-registration compliance. Once obtained, it stays valid unless you cancel it. You only need to update or confirm your details once a year online through the DGFT portal. This ease of maintenance makes it ideal for small businesses and new exporters.

5. Unlocks Global Market Opportunities

IEC gives you access to international markets and customers. Whether you are exporting handmade products, digital services, agricultural items, or textiles, this code enables you to scale your business globally. Many Indian startups, MSMEs, and freelancers are using IEC to sell on platforms like Amazon Global, Etsy, Upwork, and Alibaba.

6. Helps Build Business Credibility

Having an IEC enhances your credibility in the eyes of foreign buyers, customs officials, and international banks. It proves that you are a legitimate and government-recognised exporter or importer. This credibility also helps you in getting business loans, subsidies, and export incentives.

7. Eligibility for Government Schemes and Export Benefits

Businesses with an IEC are eligible to apply for various government benefits and schemes under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), including:

• Duty drawback
• MEIS/SEIS incentives (now replaced by RoDTEP and RoSCTL for merchandise exporters)
• Subsidies and funding schemes from the MSME Ministry

These benefits can significantly reduce your cost of doing business and increase profitability.

8. Simple, Online, and Fast Application Process

The IEC registration process is fully digital, handled by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) through its portal. The IEC is typically issued within 1–2 working days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During IEC Registration

Here are some common mistakes that you must avoid during the importer-exporter code registration:

• Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Information: Mistakes like entering the wrong PAN, name, address, or business details can delay or even reject your application. Always double-check every field before submitting.
• Uploading Wrong or Missing Documents: Incomplete documentation (e.g., missing address proof, cancelled cheque) is a common hurdle. Submit clear, legible scans that match your application details.
• Rushing or Submitting Multiple Times: Submitting too quickly, using outdated details, or making repeated attempts can confuse the system and lead to session timeouts.
• Mismatched Signatures and White Space Errors: Inconsistent signatures or unexplained blank spaces on forms may lead to rejections. Ensure signatures match your official documents, and forms are fully completed.
• Incorrect Fee Payment: Pay the correct Rs. 500 fee through DGFT’s online gateway. Underpaying or uploading the wrong transaction proof can hold up your registration.
• Misclassifying Business Activity or Commodities: Choosing the wrong business type or HS codes can cause legal and customs issues. Be clear on your primary trade activities and select the right codes.
• Ignoring DGFT Rules and Updates: Trade policies change often. Not checking DGFT guidelines may result in using outdated forms or missing recent compliance updates.

Getting your IEC is the first step to going global. With a quick online process, lifetime validity, and access to international markets, it empowers your business to grow beyond borders. Avoid common mistakes, follow the right steps, and register through the official DGFT portal to unlock a world of trade opportunities confidently and legally. This article provided you with detailed information on how to get IEC registration with 5 easy steps. Contact Online Legal India to get assistance and support in filing an IEC registration from professional experts.