How to get IEC Registration Online?

The Importer -Exporter Code (IEC) registration online is a key business identification registration which is mandatory for Exports or Imports. No person shall make any import or export except under an IEC Number granted by the DGFT. In case of import or export of services or technology, the IEC shall be required only when the service or technology provider is taking benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy or is dealing with specified services or technologies

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What is an Import Export Code (IEC)?

Importer-Exporter Code also known as IEC. IEC is 10 digit code number, which is issued by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). IEC is considered as a key business identification number which is mandatory for the purpose of export from India as well as for import into India. No export and import should be done by any person without IEC registration online.

The nature of the firm obtaining an IEC registration may be any of the follows- “Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, Limited Company, Trust, HUF and Society.” Consequent upon introduction of GST, IEC number is the same as the PAN of the firm. The IEC would be separately issued by DGFT.

What is the validity of IEC Registration?

The validity of IEC Code remains for its lifetime unless and until one’s cancelled it but it is mandatory to update the IEC annually so that the IEC is not deactivated.

How much time to obtain IEC?

Obtaining IEC code from DGFT within 10-15 days of submission of application is not a difficult process but an easy process. Once the IEC code is received, the code is used for the purpose of import as well as export.

Applicability of IEC Registration

An Importer Exporter Code is mandatory for export as well as import of goods. IEC code is essential for those who want to start their import/export business. The IEC code is issued by DGFT and is a 10 digit code with a lifetime validity. IEC code registration online is mandatory for commercial and commercial purposes only.

Government Fees for Online IEC Registration

The government fee for applying to DGFT for allotment of Import Export Code is Rs 500/- which can be paid online through e-wallets/Net Banking/Credit or Debit Cards.

Documents Required for IEC Registration

Proprietorship – Aadhar, PAN, Mobile number, Email Id, Business Place Electricity Bill & Cancel Cheque.

Partnership – All Partners Aadhar, PAN, Mobile Number & Email Id, Partnership PAN, Partnership Deed, Cancel Cheque of Partnership Firm.

Pvt Ltd/OPC/LLP – All Directors Aadhar & PAN, Company PAN, Incorporation Certificate, Cancel Cheque of Company.

Benefits of IEC Code Registration

Businesses have great options through import and export business to unlock the international market for their product or services. The IEC code is the main requirement to enter into international market which supports the growth and development of the business to a certain standard. Here are the Benefits or Advantages of IEC Registration for Businesses.

You can grow your business by initiating it in the international market -
IEC enables businesses to access the worldwide market and grab opportunities to establish business in international markets through exporting their products globally.
Custom Clearance- with IEC Number, Goods are easily get Custom Clearance.
Sell your product on international E-Commerce Platforms.
On Exports claim tax benefits.
No need to renew-There is no requirement of filings or renewal of the registration for each Financial Year or otherwise.
No Compliances and annual maintenance -There is no need to file returns for IEC as there are no post registration specific compliances or any requirement of annual maintenance fees after registration.
IEC not required for personal Import/Export Use.

Procedure for Online IEC Registration

Visit DGFT Website
Click on Apply for IEC
Click on Register for first time and enter required details and then click on Sent OTP
Enter Mobile and Email OTP and click on Register button
After successful validation, you will receive a notification having the temporary password which you can change after logging into the website
After Registering on DGFT Website, Login by entering user name and password
Click on Apply IEC in Dashboard then Start Fresh Application
Fill the Application Form
Fill General Information and attached document
Fill Details of Proprietor/Partners/Directors
Fill Bank Account Details and attached bank cancel Cheque
Fill other details Import/Export/Other product & Service
Submit Declaration and Save/Next
Sign Application by Aadhar E-Sing or DSC
Proceed to Payment and pay the required fees and click on the ‘Submit and Generate IEC Certificate’ button
The IEC code will be generated by the DGFT. You can take a printout of your certificate once the IEC code is generate

FAQs of IEC Registration

Is IEC Required for Service Exporters?

In case of import or export of services or technology, the IEC shall be required only when the service or technology provider is taking benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy or is dealing with specified services or technologies.

What is the Validity of IEC?

The validity of IEC Code remains for its lifetime unless and until one’s cancelled.

What is the Government Fees for IEC?

Government Application Fees for IEC is Rs.500/-.

Is IEC Required for Custom Clearance?

Yes, for Custom department clearance IEC required and it is printed on all Export or Import related documents.

Which Firm or Institutions are eligible for IEC Registration?

Proprietorship/Partnership/Pvt Ltd/LLP/Trust/Society are eligible for IEC Registration.

Is Modification in IEC Possible after registration?

Yes, modification is possible in IEC Registration, Such as deletion or addition of Partner/Director, change address, add branch details and update personal information.

Is IEC Required for Import or Export of goods for personal use?

IEC code is not required for import or export of goods for personal use. The Import Export Code is mandatory only for commercial purposes and business. One can import or export goods for personal use without any registration requirement

Is DSC is Mandatory for IEC Registration?

To Submit IEC Application two options are available Aadhar E-Sign Verification process in which Otp will send on Authorized person’s mobile no linked with Aadhar and another is DSC Verification.

Should I update my IEC profile annually?

Yes, It is mandatory to update the IEC profile every year. In case of non-updation of the IEC profile, it will be deactivated. A deactivated IEC can be reactivated upon its successful updation.

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