An Import Export Code is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade and is required before goods can be imported or exported. It is a 10-digit code linked to your PAN. The code does not expire, but it must be updated on the DGFT portal every year between April and June, or it is deactivated — something many businesses only discover when a shipment is held.
Who this suits
- Businesses starting to import raw materials or goods
- Exporters of goods, including small and first-time exporters
- E-commerce sellers shipping internationally
- Service exporters claiming Foreign Trade Policy benefits
- Existing IEC holders who need the annual update
The process, step by step
-
Eligibility and entity check
We confirm the IEC should be taken in the name of the right entity — proprietor, firm, LLP or company — since it is tied to that PAN.
Same day -
DGFT portal registration
A user account is created on the DGFT portal and linked to the applicant's PAN, using a digital signature or Aadhaar-based e-sign.
Same day -
Application filing
The IEC application is filed with business, address, bank and branch details, and the government fee is paid online.
Same day -
IEC issued
The IEC certificate is generally issued electronically within a couple of working days if the details match PAN records.
1–3 days -
Annual update
Every year between 1 April and 30 June, the IEC details are confirmed or updated on the portal to keep the code active. We diarise this for you.
Every year
If your IEC has been deactivated
An IEC that missed its annual update is deactivated, which stops customs clearance under that code. It can usually be reactivated by completing the update on the DGFT portal. Contact us before your next shipment if you are unsure of your IEC status.
Questions we get asked
Does an IEC need to be renewed?
It does not expire, but it must be updated or confirmed every year between April and June. If the update is missed, the code is deactivated until it is completed.
Do I need GST registration to get an IEC?
GST registration is not a precondition for an IEC, though most importers and exporters will need GST registration for their business in any case.
Do service exporters need an IEC?
Generally, an IEC is needed for services only where you want to claim benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy. We check your case.
Can one IEC be used for several branches?
Yes. An IEC is issued per PAN, and branch offices are added to the same IEC.
How long does it take?
Usually one to three working days once the application is filed with clean documents.
Ready to start?
Send us your details and we'll confirm the documents needed and the total cost.