IEC Registration

Ideal for businesses planning to trade in and out of India

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Rs. 3,391 Onwards

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(Online application. Get IEC in just 1 day)

IEC Registration

What is Import Export Code ?

Import Export Code more commonly known as IEC is a ten digit code number. It is given to an Importer or Exporter by Director General of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industries, Government of India. Any Entrepreneur who wishes to import something to India or export something from India requires an import export code. It has a permanent validity. There are certain benefits of this code. Though exporters need not necessarily apply for this code, however, they will miss out the otherwise provided benefits. Also, RBI is now making the mention of IEC code mandatory in bank account.

This code generally comes in play when you decide to expand your business globally. Code can be obtained on your name(in case of proprietorship) or on your company’s name. To register Import Export Code a proper procedure is followed. This registration is governed by The Foreign Trade Act, 1992.

However, obtaining a code doesn’t permit you to start importing or exporting. A License and other documents are also required. IEC code is just a requirement which provides certain benefits.

Reasons to register a IE Code

Requirement for Importeres

All Importers msut quote the IE Code while clearing customs. Also, banks require the importers IE Code while sending money abroad.

Requirement for Exporters

The IE Code must be quoted while sending shipments. And banks require the exporters IE Code while receiving money from abroad.

No Return Filling

After IE Code is issued, further procedures are not required to maintain validity of the IE Code. No filings are required to the Director General of Foreign Trade, even in case import export transactions take place.

Proprietors can have IE Code

Incorporating a business entity is not necessary to obtain IE Code. Individuals being proprietors of business can obtain IE Code in their name.

No Renewal needed

Once a IE Code is obtained no renewal is necessary, it is issued for a lifetime.

How Can you Get IEC?

First of all, you need to ensure if you are eligible for getting an import export code. To be eligible, you should have the following documents. Make sure you have them all before you apply for import export code.

PAN number
Premises proof (property papers, if self-owned / rent agreement if rented)
Identity proof

Banker’s certificate
Current bank account
Company’s cover Letter for the issue of IEC number.

An IEC application form is submitted to regional joint DGFT office with the above documents attached.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is IE Code?

IE Code stands for Import Export Code. It is required for any person importing or exporting goods and services to or from India.

2. Tax is levied based on IE Code?

No. IE Code is not a tax registration. So no tax is levied based on IE Code during import or export of goods or services. However, customs duty maybe levied.

3. Who can obtain IE Code?

Any person who proposes to import or export goods and services from or to India must obtain IE Code. Moreover, individuals acting as Proprietors of a business can obtain IE Code Registration.

4. How long it takes to register IE Code?

IE Code Registration can be obtained from the DGFT in 10-15 working days after submission of all required documents and application.

5. What is the penalty for not having IE Code?

IE Code is not a mandatory registration, only importers and exporters of goods or services must have IE Code. Therefore, there is no penalty for not having IE Code; however, import / export will not be possible without an IE Code.

6. Filing of Return is necessary if I obtain IE Code?

No. Returns need NOT be filed for IE Code.

7. What is the validity of IE Code?

IE Code is valid for a lifetime. No renewal is necessary.