The Import Export Code is the ten digit key to cross border trade: customs clearance, foreign remittances and export benefits all quote it. No IEC, no international business.
Krishna TaxNova obtains your IEC from DGFT quickly, guides you on the AD code and bank formalities that follow, and keeps the mandatory annual update from silently deactivating your code.
What is Import Export Code?
The IEC is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade against your PAN, one code per entity, valid for a lifetime. Since 2021, every IEC must be updated or confirmed online annually between April and June, failing which it is deactivated. Service exporters need it to claim benefits, and importers cannot clear customs without it.
Who Should Apply for Import Export Code?
- Businesses starting import of goods or machinery
- Merchandise and service exporters
- E-commerce sellers shipping internationally
- Freelancers and agencies receiving foreign payments who want export benefits
Benefits of Import Export Code
Legal Trade Gateway
Customs, banks and export schemes all operate on your IEC.
Lifetime Validity
One time issuance with only an annual confirmation to maintain.
Export Incentive Access
Schemes like RoDTEP and duty drawback require an active IEC.
Fast Issuance
Complete applications are typically approved within days.
No Renewals or Returns
The IEC itself carries no periodic filings beyond the annual update.
Documents Required for Import Export Code
Keep these documents ready. You can upload them using the form on this page or send them to us on WhatsApp.
- PAN of the entity or proprietor
- Aadhaar of the applicant
- Cancelled cheque or bank certificate
- Business address proof: utility bill or rent agreement with NOC
- Incorporation certificate for companies and LLPs
- Email and mobile for DGFT verification
Step by Step Process for Import Export Code
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Step 1: Eligibility Check
We confirm entity details and PAN data match, the common rejection cause.
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Step 2: Document Collection
KYC and bank documents are collected on WhatsApp.
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Step 3: DGFT Filing
The application is filed on the DGFT portal with fees.
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Step 4: IEC Issuance
The certificate is issued, usually within one to two working days.
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Step 5: Post Issue Setup
We guide AD code registration at your port and set the annual update reminder.
Import Export Code at a Glance
Estimated Timeline
1 to 2 working days
Governing Authority
Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
Validity
Lifetime, subject to annual April to June update
Government Fees
Government fee of 500 rupees
Why Choose Krishna TaxNova for Import Export Code?
Most IEC problems are silent: a missed annual update deactivates the code just when a shipment is at port. Our reminder system keeps client IECs active year after year.
CA Led Team in Delhi
Your work is handled by a qualified Chartered Accountant team, not a call center. You get correct advice the first time.
Upload Documents Online
Share everything from your phone or laptop. Use the secure upload form on this page or simply WhatsApp us your documents.
Transparent Pricing
You approve a clear quote before we start. No hidden charges at any stage.
End to End Support
From document collection to final approval and post registration compliance, one team stays with you throughout.
Import Export Code: Frequently Asked Questions
Do service exporters need an IEC?
Banks can process service export remittances without one, but export benefits and many compliance simplifications require it. For any serious services exporter, we recommend taking it.
Is there any return or renewal for IEC?
No returns, but the annual electronic update between April and June is mandatory even if nothing changed. Missing it deactivates the IEC until updated.
Can one person hold multiple IECs?
No, one IEC per PAN. Branches operate under the same code, and the code moves with the entity, not the location.
What is an AD code and do I need it too?
The AD code links your bank to the customs port for foreign exchange reporting. Importer exporters must register it at each port they ship through, which we help set up after the IEC.
How long does Import Export Code take?
In most cases the work is completed in 1 to 2 working days. The exact time depends on how quickly documents are shared and on processing time at the department. We keep you updated at every stage.
What documents are needed for Import Export Code?
The key documents include pan of the entity or proprietor, aadhaar of the applicant, cancelled cheque or bank certificate, business address proof: utility bill or rent agreement with noc. Our team shares a simple checklist after the first call so nothing is missed.
Can I complete Import Export Code fully online?
Yes. The entire process is online. Fill the form on this page, upload your documents or WhatsApp them to us, and our experts handle the filings. You do not need to visit any office.
Which authority handles Import Export Code?
Import Export Code falls under Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). Krishna TaxNova prepares and files your application in the required format and responds to any queries raised by the department.
What is the validity of Import Export Code?
The validity is lifetime, subject to annual April to June update. We send renewal and compliance reminders in advance so you never miss a due date.
Do you provide Import Export Code outside Delhi?
Yes. We are based in Delhi and serve clients across India. Since the process is fully online, your location does not matter. Documents can be shared through the website or WhatsApp.
Get Import Export Code Done by Experts
Fill in your details, upload your documents online or send them on WhatsApp. A qualified CA will review your case and call you back with the exact steps and a fixed quote.