loader image

Importer-Exporter Code

An Import-Export code is a 10 digit mandatory license, for companies and businesses that deals with import-export activities in the Indian Territory. The Director-General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Department of Commerce, Government of India issues this license.
An Importer Exporter Code is a unique 10-digit code, which is requisite for every import/export business owner in India. The code is issued by the Director-General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and needs no filing or renewal. IEC is required by importers to clear customs and shipment, and to transfer money to foreign banks. Exporters require IEC to send shipments and receive money from foreign banks. In short, no importer/exporter can operate in India without getting the IEC.

Why register for IEC?

  • The IEC registration helps traders open the doors to venture into the global market, including registration in online e-commerce operators.
  • Businesses can avail government schemes like Merchandise Export from India Scheme (MEIS), Service Export from India Scheme (SEIS) and others from Customs and Export Promotion.

Why register for IEC?

  • No compliance requirements pos registration and hence maintaining the business is relatively simple
  • The process of obtaining IEC is not tedious and can be obtained with minimal, basic documents.

Documents required for IEC registration

  • PAN card of the individual or company
  • Copy of the entity’s government ID
  • Incorporation certificate/Partnership deed
  • Personal or company’s current bank account statement
  • Address proof
  • Copy of cancelled cheque leaf of the current account

Eligibility

Any type of business registration: Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Private Limited and Charitable organization dealing with the export and import of goods should register for Importer Exporter Goods.