Apply for an IEC Code Online in India: Fast and Easy Registration Process

Ask Your Legal Query

Calculate the Sum :
2 + 3 =
Apply for an IEC Code Online in India: Fast and Easy Registration Process Introduction to Importer Exporter Code India (IEC Code India)

An Importer Exporter Code India is a unique 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It is a mandatory requirement for businesses and individuals engaged in the importation or exportation of goods and services across international borders.

The IEC acts as a primary business identification number for global trade transactions and helps in availing various benefits from Customs, Export Promotion Councils, and other regulatory authorities. Without an IEC, businesses cannot legally engage in cross-border trade unless exempted under specific government policies. To apply for an IEC code online, businesses can use the DGFT portal, making the IEC code application process straightforward and efficient.

Who Needs an IEC Code?

An Importer Exporter Code India is mandatory for individuals and businesses engaged in international trade. It is a crucial requirement for importing or exporting goods and services from India. Below are the key entities that need to apply for the IEC Code –

  1. Businesses Involved in Import & Export
  2. Service Providers Engaged in International Trade
  3. Individuals & Proprietors Importing or Exporting
  4. Businesses Availing Export Incentives
Documents Required for IEC Code Application Process

IEC Code registration includes the following documents -

The proof of establishment, incorporation, or registration is required.

Proof of address can be any one of the following documents
  1. Sale deed, rent agreement, lease deed, electricity bill, telephone landline bill, mobile, postpaid bill, MoU, partnership deed.
  2. Other acceptable documents (for proprietorship only): Aadhar card, passport, voter ID.
  3. A no-objection certificate (NOC) issued by the firm's premises owner in favour of the firm must be submitted as a single PDF document with the address evidence if it is not in the applicant firm's name.
Proof of Firm’s Bank Account
  1. Cancelled Cheque
  2. Bank certificate

Step-by-Step IEC Code Application Process Online

  1. Visit the DGFT website at www.dgft.gov.in and proceed with IEC Code registration.
  2. Complete the online application form with essential details such as business name, address, contact information, and bank details.
  3. Upload a scanned copy of your PAN card.
  4. Provide address proof documents.
  5. Upload a bank certificate or cancelled cheque.
  6. Depending on the business type, additional documents like a partnership deed or incorporation certificate may be required for the IEC Code application process.
  7. Enter your phone number and email address to receive an OTP.
  8. Complete the Captcha challenge and click on the 'Generate OTP' button.
  9. Enter the OTP sent to your phone and email to proceed.
  10. Pay the application fee online.
  11. Use either Aadhaar authentication or a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) to sign the application.
  12. Review your IEC Code application for accuracy before submitting.
  13. Click the 'Submit' button to complete the application process.
  14. Once approved, the IEC code will be auto-generated and sent via email.
  15. You can download your IEC certificate from the DGFT portal.
Fees & Processing Time for IEC Code Application Process

The cost for applying for an Importer Exporter Code India is minimal. During registration, you must pay an application fee of Rs 500. You can make the payment online via net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI on the DGFT portal. The average time to receive the new IEC Certificate is immediate from the successful submission of the application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the IEC Code Application Process
  1. Inaccurate or incomplete documentation - Ensure all documents, such as proof of address, identity proof, bank details, and partnership deeds, are accurate and complete. Discrepancies can lead to delays or rejection.
  2. Incorrect classification of goods and services - Accurately classify goods using the Harmonized System (HS) codes to avoid future complications.
  3. Lack of regulatory knowledge - Familiarize yourself with customs regulations, export control policies, and other relevant laws to ensure compliance.
  4. Failure to seek professional guidance - Consider hiring an experienced consultant to streamline the IEC Code registration and avoid mistakes.
  5. Not meeting submission deadlines - Submit the application with all necessary documents on time to avoid delays or rejection.
  6. Incorrect bank details - Verify that bank details are correct to ensure smooth processing of refunds or incentives.
How to Check IEC Code Status Online?
  1. Go to the official DGFT website.
  2. Use your registered user ID and password to log in.
  3. Navigate to IEC Section and click on the 'IEC' tab.
  4. Select 'Check IEC Status' and choose the option to check the status of your IEC application.
  5. Provide your application number and other required details.
  6. The system will display the current status of your IEC application.
Modifications of IEC Code
  1. Logon to the DGFT website.
  2. Proceed with the registration process by clicking on Login > Register
  3. After registration, go to Services → Manage IEC.
  4. Enter IEC Number and Click on Validate
  5. Validation by DSC can happen only after registering DSC on CP.
  6. Once the validation completes, then click on Validate with DSC.
  7. Once linked, you can modify details in IEC.
Benefits of Having an IEC Code
  1. A DGFT IEC Code allows businesses to expand into international markets, enhancing their global presence and reach.
  2. IEC facilitates smoother customs procedures, reducing delays and ensuring faster clearance of shipments.
  3. Businesses with an Importer Exporter Code India can benefit from various export promotion schemes.
  4. An IEC serves as proof of business registration and recognition by the Indian government, enhancing credibility in international transactions.
  5. Once issued, an IEC has lifetime validity, eliminating the need for periodic renewals.
  6. IEC makes cross-border transactions legal and easier, reducing the risk of illegal activities.
  7. IEC helps the government collect accurate trade data, which aids in formulating effective trade policies.
Conclusion

Applying for an Import Export Code (IEC) online in India is a streamlined and efficient process that enables businesses to engage in international trade with ease. The IEC Code application process, managed by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), is fully online and requires minimal documentation, including a PAN card, proof of address, and bank details. The application can be completed quickly, and the IEC code is typically issued within a few working days after submission.

Global Jurix is one of the leading law firms that provides various law-related services such as FDI consultancy, trademark registration, copyright registration and so on. To avail yourself of law-related services, please contact us through our official website.

Read Also:

Key Statutory Records to Be Kept in Electronic Form Under the Companies Act, 2013
What is Importer Exporter Code(IEC): Why it is necessary and How can we get it?

Global Jurix
S-191 C, 3rd floor, Manak Complex
School Block, Shakarpur
New Delhi - 110092, India
Call at +91-98100-62387
Mail at: corporate@globaljurix.com

Copyright © Global Jurix.