Overview
Import Export Code (IEC) registration is mandatory for businesses involved in importing or exporting goods and services from India. Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), IEC is a unique 10-digit code that allows businesses to participate in international trade legally.
Whether you are a trader, manufacturer, exporter, importer, or service provider dealing with foreign clients, IEC registration is essential to clear customs, receive foreign payments, and access export incentives. At Adviso Compliance, we provide end-to-end IEC registration services with accurate filing, fast processing, and complete compliance support.
Start Import & Export Business with IEC Registration
IEC registration is mandatory for businesses involved in importing or exporting goods and services from India.
Legal Authorization
Import Export Code is mandatory for conducting any import or export activity under Indian trade laws.
International Trade
IEC enables businesses to trade internationally and expand their market reach beyond India.
Export Benefits
IEC holders can avail export incentives, duty drawbacks, and benefits under foreign trade policies.
Lifetime Validity
IEC is issued with lifetime validity and requires no periodic renewal once obtained.
Apply for IEC Registration Today
We manage the entire IEC process quickly and accurately.
What is Import Export Code (IEC)?
Import Export Code (IEC) is a mandatory registration issued by DGFT for businesses involved in import or export activities. Without IEC, no person or business can import or export goods or services in India, except for certain exempt categories.
IEC is linked to the business PAN and remains valid for a lifetime unless cancelled or modified.
Who Needs IEC Registration?
IEC registration is required for:
Importers of goods into India
Exporters of goods from India
Service providers receiving foreign currency payments
Businesses involved in international trade
Manufacturers exporting finished goods
Traders importing raw materials or products
Even individuals or proprietors involved in import-export activities must obtain IEC.
Who is Exempt from IEC Registration?
IEC is not required for:
Import or export of goods for personal use
Government departments and ministries
Certain notified charitable organizations
However, most commercial activities require IEC registration.
Benefits of IEC Registration
IEC registration provides several advantages, including:
Legal authorization for international trade
Smooth customs clearance
Eligibility for export incentives and schemes
Easy foreign currency transactions
Lifetime validity with no renewal
Improved business credibility
IEC is often required to open current accounts for export-import activities.
Documents Required for IEC Registration
The following documents are generally required:
PAN card of business or applicant
Aadhaar card of proprietor / directors / partners
Business address proof
Cancelled cheque or bank certificate
Photograph of applicant
Incorporation certificate or partnership deed (if applicable)
Our experts verify all documents to ensure error-free submission.
IEC Registration Process
At Adviso Compliance, we follow a streamlined process:
Step 1: Business Information Collection
We collect PAN, address, and bank details of the applicant.
Step 2: Document Verification
All documents are reviewed for accuracy and compliance.
Step 3: Application Filing
IEC application is filed online on the DGFT portal.
Step 4: Government Verification
Details are verified by DGFT authorities.
Step 5: IEC Issuance
IEC certificate is issued digitally after approval.
IEC Registration for Exporters
IEC registration is essential for exporters to:
Ship goods internationally
Receive export payments
Avail export incentives
Participate in global trade fairs
Exporters cannot claim benefits under export promotion schemes without IEC.
IEC Registration for Importers
For importers, IEC registration is required to:
Clear goods through customs
Make foreign payments
Comply with import regulations
Conduct lawful import activities
Validity of IEC Registration
IEC registration is valid for a lifetime and does not require renewal. However, IEC holders must update their details annually on the DGFT portal to keep the code active.
Common Mistakes in IEC Registration
Many applications are delayed or rejected due to:
Incorrect PAN or bank details
Address mismatch
Incomplete documentation
Failure to update IEC annually
With Adviso Compliance, these issues are avoided through professional handling.
Why Choose Adviso Compliance for IEC Registration?
Experienced DGFT compliance professionals
Accurate document verification
Fast and smooth registration process
Transparent pricing
Post-registration support
PAN-India service availability
We also assist with IEC modification, surrender, and DGFT compliance.
Post-IEC Registration Compliance
After obtaining IEC, businesses should:
Update IEC details annually
Maintain proper import-export records
Comply with customs and DGFT regulations
File export documentation correctly
Our team provides continued guidance to ensure smooth trade operations.
FAQs – IEC Registration
Yes, IEC is required for service providers receiving foreign currency payments.
IEC registration is usually completed within 2–5 working days.
GST is not mandatory unless required under GST law.
Yes, one IEC is valid for all branches of the same business.
Yes, IEC can be surrendered or cancelled if business operations stop.