An Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is a unique 10-digit code that every importer/exporter in India must have. It’s issued by the Director-General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce. You don’t need to renew or file for it again once you have it.
IEC is necessary for importers to clear customs, ship goods, and transfer money abroad. Exporters need it to send shipments and receive payments from foreign banks. In short, no importer/exporter can do business in India without having an IEC.
Step 1: Fill out the online IEC application form called Aayaat Niryaat Form no. 2A and submit it to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade online or offline at their Regional office.
Step 2: Submit all necessary documents, including bank details and Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).
Step 3: Your Import Export Code will be assigned, and your application will move forward in the process.
Step 4: After the authorities verify your documents and application, you’ll receive your import-export license as a soft copy.
The documents needed for applying for an IE Code in India include:
– PAN card of the individual or company
– Copy of the entity’s government ID (such as Driving license, Aadhar card, or Voter ID)
– Incorporation certificate or Partnership deed
– Personal or company’s current bank account statement
– Address proof (like Electricity bill, rent agreement, or sale deed of the office location)
– Copy of a cancelled cheque leaf from the current account