Import Export Code (IEC) Registration
Mandatory for all businesses importing or exporting goods and services. Lifetime validity — register once, export forever.
Issued By
DGFT Govt of India
Validity
Lifetime ✓
Format
10-Digit Code
Govt Fee
Only ₹500
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ABOUT IEC
What is IEC Registration?
IEC (Import Export Code) is a 10-digit unique identification number issued by DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India. It is mandatory for every business or individual who wants to import or export goods or services from India.
Issued By
DGFT — Ministry of Commerce
Format
10-digit unique code (linked to PAN)
Validity
Lifetime — No renewal needed
Mandatory For
All importers and exporters
Government Fee
₹500 (very low)
Time to Get
3-5 working days
Indian Exporter at Port / Airport Customs — Add Real Photo Here
IMAGE PLACEHOLDERAPPLICABILITY
Who Needs IEC Registration?
Product Exporters
Businesses exporting handicrafts, textiles, food, machinery, chemicals to other countries.
Amazon/Flipkart Global Sellers
Sellers on Amazon Global, Flipkart Cross-Border, Etsy, eBay need IEC mandatorily.
Software & Service Exporters
IT companies, freelancers, consultants receiving foreign payments for services.
Importers & Traders
Businesses importing raw materials, machinery, electronics, or goods from abroad.
Agricultural Exporters
Farmers and agro-businesses exporting rice, spices, vegetables, fruits abroad.
Pharmaceutical Exporters
Pharma companies exporting medicines, medical devices, or healthcare products.
BENEFITS
Why Every Importer/Exporter Needs IEC
Lifetime Validity
IEC once registered is valid for lifetime. No annual renewal, no expiry date.
Government Export Benefits
Access DGFT export benefits, MEIS/RoDTEP schemes, and export incentive programs.
Foreign Payment Clearance
Banks and payment gateways require IEC to clear foreign currency payments.
Customs Clearance
Mandatory for customs to clear imported or exported goods at ports and airports.
Amazon Global Selling
Required to sell on Amazon USA, UK, Europe, UAE, and other global marketplaces.
No Compliance Burden
IEC has zero annual compliance. No returns to file, no fees to pay after registration.
GOVT SCHEMES
Export Benefits After IEC
Register IEC and unlock these powerful government export incentive schemes from DGFT.
RoDTEP Scheme
Refund of taxes paid on exported goods — up to 5% of export value
MEIS / FTP Scheme
Merchandise Exports from India Scheme — export incentives based on product.
Advance Authorization
Duty-free import of raw materials for export production.
EPCG Scheme
Import capital goods at zero duty for export production.
PROCESS
4 Steps to Get IEC Code
Document Preparation
Day 1Collect PAN, Aadhaar, bank details and business registration documents.
DGFT Portal Application
Day 1-2Apply on dgft.gov.in portal. Fill business details and upload documents.
DGFT Verification
Day 2-3DGFT auto-verifies PAN with Income Tax database. Usually instant or same day.
IEC Code Issued
Day 3-5Receive 10-digit IEC code via email. Download e-IEC certificate from DGFT portal.
EXEMPTIONS
Who Does NOT Need IEC?
Personal gifts below ₹5,000
Sending personal gifts under ₹5,000 value does not require IEC.
Charitable organizations
Imports/exports by Government departments and charitable organizations are exempt.
Personal baggage
Goods carried in personal baggage during international travel are exempt.
Service Exporters (some categories)
Some service exporters whose foreign remittance is processed through RBI route may be exempt.
CHECKLIST
Documents Required
FAQ
Common Questions
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You May Also Need
Start Importing & Exporting Today
Get your IEC code in 3 days. Lifetime valid — register once, use forever.
✓ DGFT Certified Process · ✓ CA Assisted · ✓ 3-Day Completion · ✓ Lifetime Valid