Import Export Code (IEC) Registration
The one-time 10-digit code every importer and exporter needs — apply on the DGFT portal in a day, and remember the annual update rule.
Issuing authority
DGFT
Govt fee
₹500
Validity
Lifetime
Annual update
Apr–Jun (mandatory)
Time to issue
1–2 working days
An Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) that any business must have to import into or export out of India. It's a one-time registration with lifetime validity — but since 2021 it must be updated (confirmed) on the DGFT portal every year between April and June, or it gets deactivated.
Step-by-step process
- 1
Register on the DGFT portal
Create an account on dgft.gov.in using your PAN, mobile and email. The IEC is PAN-based — one IEC per PAN.
- 2
Complete the IEC application (ANF-2A)
Fill in entity details, address, and bank account, and upload the required proofs. Aadhaar/DSC is used to sign the application electronically.
- 3
Pay the fee and submit
Pay the ₹500 government fee online. The IEC is typically auto-generated and issued within a day or two of a clean application.
- 4
Update the IEC every year
Even with no changes, confirm/update your IEC details on the DGFT portal every year between April and June. Failure deactivates the IEC until you update it.
Documents required
Expert tips
Official sources
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