IEC Registration for Import and Export: Complete Guide 2026
Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) that is mandatory for any business engaged in the import or export of goods and services in India. Without IEC, customs clearance is not possible.
Eligibility: Any individual, firm, company, or trust can apply for IEC. There is no minimum turnover requirement. The applicant must have a PAN card linked to the business entity. IEC is valid for a lifetime and does not require renewal.
Documents Required: PAN card of the applicant/business, Aadhaar card of the proprietor/authorized signatory, bank certificate or cancelled cheque, address proof of the business (electricity bill, rent agreement, or property tax receipt), and certificate of incorporation (for companies).
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Talk to an expertApplication Process: Register on the DGFT website (dgft.gov.in), fill the ANF-2A form online, upload the required documents, and pay the application fee (Rs. 500 for online application). The IEC is issued digitally within 1-2 working days if all documents are correct.
Benefits of IEC: Enables customs clearance for import and export shipments, allows availing of export benefits under various schemes (MEIS, RoDTEP, Advance Authorization, EPCG), facilitates foreign currency transactions through authorized dealers, and is required for claiming GST refunds on exports.
Post-IEC Compliance: IEC holders must update their IEC details (address, contact, bank information) within 30 days of any change. Annual exports/imports must be reported in the Annual Return of Foreign Trade (ANF-2). Non-filing may result in IEC suspension.
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