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IEC Registration Guide (DGFT Portal)
Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is a 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
Businesses involved in import or export activities must obtain IEC before starting international trade.
IEC is required for:
- Importing goods into India
- Exporting goods outside India
- Receiving international payments
- Clearing goods through customs
Technical Requirements
Before applying for IEC, ensure the following are available:
- Valid PAN of the firm or individual
- Valid mobile number and email ID
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or Aadhaar e-sign
- Active bank account in the name of the firm
- Valid address proof
Documents Required for IEC
1. Business Registration Proof
- Partnership deed
- Trust deed
- Society registration certificate
- Certificate of incorporation
- Other establishment proof
2. Address Proof
Any one of the following:
- Sale deed
- Rent agreement
- Lease deed
- Electricity bill
- Telephone bill
- Mobile postpaid bill
For proprietorship businesses, additional documents may include:
- Aadhaar card
- Passport
- Voter ID
If the address proof is not in the firm's name, an NOC from the premises owner must be submitted.
3. Bank Account Proof
- Cancelled cheque
- Bank certificate
Bank account name should match the firm name.
Step-by-Step IEC Registration Process
Step 1 — Visit DGFT Portal
Go to the DGFT website:
https://dgft.gov.in
Step 2 — Register on DGFT Portal
Navigate:
Login → Register → Register as Importer / Exporter
Provide:
- Name
- Email ID
- Mobile number
Verify OTP sent to mobile and email.
Step 3 — Login to DGFT Dashboard
After registration:
My Dashboard → Importer Exporter Code → Apply for IEC
Step 4 — Enter Business Details
Provide information such as:
- Nature of firm
- Firm name
- PAN details
- GSTIN (if applicable)
- Business activities
Step 5 — Upload Documents
Upload required documents in:
- PDF format
- Maximum file size: 5MB
Step 6 — Sign Application
Application must be signed using:
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
- Aadhaar e-Sign
Step 7 — Pay Application Fee
IEC application fee:
₹500
Payment is made through the BharatKosh payment gateway.
Step 8 — IEC Certificate Issued
After successful submission, IEC is usually issued immediately.
You can download the certificate from:
Services → IEC → Manage IEC → Print IEC
Important Notes
- Bank account details are validated through NPCI.
- Bank validation may take a few minutes or up to two weeks depending on the bank.
- If validation is pending, application status may show Under Automatic Review.
Related Guides
Need Help?
For official updates, always refer to the DGFT portal or consult with a compliance professional.
