Import Export Code (IEC)

Import Export Code Registration – An overview.

Taking your product or services to the international market will expand your businesses. The first requirement before you start an import/ export business in India is to obtain an IEC.

An IEC is necessary for the import/export of goods. Every exporter or importer of goods or services is required to obtain an IEC from the regional office of the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Department of Commerce, Government of India.

IE Code application must be made to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade along with the necessary supporting documents.

Businesses can avail government schemes like Merchandise Export from India Scheme (MEIS), Service Export from India Scheme (SEIS) and others from Customs and Export Promotion.

Documents required for Import Export Code

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PAN of the IEC applicant
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PAN of the Business Entity (Other than Proprietorship)

Photo of the IEC applicant / Authorised Signatory

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Cancelled cheque of the Business Entity
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Digital Signature of Applicant / Authorised Signatory

FAQs on Import Export Code

Who requires an IEC?

Any bonafide person/ company starting a venture for International trade.
Where to obtain an IEC?

Application for obtaining IEC Number in made online at DGFT website http://dgft.gov.in in the prescribed form ANF 2A.
Is PAN Number or PAN card essential or what are the alternatives?

Yes, PAN is mandatory. Self-Certified Photocopy of PAN card of the Applicant has to be submitted along with the application.
How much time does it take to get an IEC?

All applications will be processed and disposed within 5-6 working days of their receipt.
What is RBIs Automatic approval or Specific permission when there is Non-Resident Interest Foreign Investment in the firm for obtaining IEC?

• Notification No. 20/2000/RBI dated. 3rd May 2000. Applicants are also required to furnish
i. Copy of Money invested report filed before the Regional Office of RBI.
ii. Copy of Report filed in Form FC-GPR, Part A for the issuance of shares to Regional Office of the Reserve Bank of India.
iii. If specific permission has been granted by RBI regarding Non-Resident Interest, then copy of that permission to be furnished with Application form ANF-2A.
Can a Public Limited Co. or Private Limited Co. or Partnership obtain different IECs for different concerns owned by it?

No. However the name of each concern owned by such a company may be included in the IEC of the firm in whose name PAN exists, as a branch.
What are the documents required for issue of Duplicate IEC?

IEC will be issued in digital format only. The applicant can take a print out of the digitally signed IEC, as and when required.
Can IEC be hand delivered or over the counter?

No, IEC issued are not dispatched or delivered. IEC will be issued in digital format. The applicant has to take a print out of the digitally signed IEC.