IMPORT EXPORT CODE(IEC)Registration
If you plan to start an import or export business in India, obtaining an Import Export Code (IEC) is mandatory.
The IEC is a 10-digit unique code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
Without IEC, no person or entity can legally import or export goods or services from India.
At Register My Firm, we provide complete end-to-end assistance for quick and hassle-free IEC registration.
What is Import Export Code (IEC)?
IEC is a one-time registration required for:
Importing goods into India
Exporting goods/services outside India
Receiving foreign currency payments
Customs clearance
IEC is linked with the PAN of the applicant and remains valid for lifetime (subject to annual updation compliance)
Who Requires IEC?
IEC registration is required for:
✔ Proprietorship firms
✔ Partnership firms
✔ LLPs
✔ Private Limited Companies
✔ OPC
✔ Trusts & Societies
✔ Individuals engaged in export/import
Import Export Code (IEC) – Key Features
Why IEC Registration is Important for Your Business
Mandatory for Import & Export
Required for legally importing or exporting goods and services from India.
Issued by DGFT (Government Authority)
IEC is issued by the
Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
10-Digit PAN-Based Code
IEC is linked directly with your PAN — no separate registration number structure.
Lifetime Validity
One-time registration. No expiry date.
No Renewal Required
No renewal process. Only annual confirmation/update on DGFT portal (April–June).
100% Online Process
Simple digital application with quick approval.
Required for Customs Clearance
Goods cannot be cleared without IEC.
Essential for Foreign Payments
Banks require IEC for processing export remittances.
No Compliance Burden
No monthly or annual return filing requirement.
Enhances Business Credibility
Builds trust with international buyers, suppliers, and financial institutions.
Documents Required for IEC Registration
- PAN card of the business or the proprietor
- Proof of identity and address of the business or the proprietor
- Passport-sized photographs of the proprietor or the authorized signatory
- Bank account details and cancelled cheque of the business
- Details of the business, such as name, address, phone number, email ID, and nature of business
- Bank certificate or statement as proof of the business's existence
- In some cases, a letter of authorization may also be required
Benefits of IEC Registration
✔ Enables global trade operations
✔ Required for customs clearance
✔ Required for receiving foreign remittance
✔ Builds business credibility
✔ Access to export promotion schemes
Why Choose Register My Firm for IEC Registration?
✔ Fast processing
✔ Expert documentation support
✔ Error-free filing
✔ End-to-end compliance assistance
✔ Transparent pricing
✔ Dedicated support team
Frequently asked questions
IEC (Import Export Code) is a 10-digit unique code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Commerce.
It is mandatory for businesses involved in importing or exporting goods and services from India.
Yes.
You must obtain IEC if:
• You import goods into India
• You export goods outside India
• You receive foreign currency payments for services
Without IEC, customs clearance and international payments cannot be processed.
IEC is issued online by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
The process is completely digital.
GST is not mandatory in all cases, but:
• If you are engaged in taxable supply, GST may be required
• For goods export/import businesses, GST registration is generally advisable
Our experts evaluate both registrations together for compliance safety.
Basic documents include:
• PAN of Individual / Firm / Company
• Aadhaar (for OTP authentication)
• Address proof
• Cancelled cheque / Bank certificate
• Business constitution documents (if applicable)
Usually 1–3 working days, subject to correct documentation and OTP verification.
The certificate is issued digitally.
No.
IEC is valid for lifetime.
However, annual online updation on DGFT portal is mandatory to keep it active.
We provide reminder and compliance support
Yes.
Even a sole proprietor or freelancer exporting services can obtain IEC in their own name.
No need to form a company.
Yes.
If you receive foreign currency for:
• IT services
• Consulting
• Freelancing
• Digital marketing
• Software exports
IEC is required to receive international remittances smoothly.