The Import Export Code (IEC) is the first and most essential requirement for any business in India that wants to start international trade. Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, IEC registration enables businesses to import and export goods or services legally.
Without an IEC, a business cannot conduct cross-border trade, receive international payments, or avail government export benefits. At Rajasthan Filings, we make the entire process seamless — from application filing to final code issuance — ensuring you can begin global trade without delay.
The Import-Export Code is a 10-digit unique identification number issued to Indian businesses and individuals for export or import of goods and services. It serves as a primary business identification recognized by customs, banks, and government departments.
Key Reasons IEC is Mandatory:
Required by customs authorities to clear shipments.
Mandatory for receiving export payments from abroad.
Needed to claim incentives under DGFT, Customs, or Export Promotion Councils.
Essential for opening current accounts in foreign currency.
Acts as a permanent business identification for global trade.
IEC registration is required by:
Importers buying goods or services from abroad.
Exporters selling goods or services outside India.
Businesses participating in international e-commerce.
Manufacturers supplying goods to Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
Service providers dealing with international clients.
Individuals receiving export commission or payments.
Even proprietors and freelancers engaged in cross-border transactions must obtain an IEC number.
IEC is not required when:
Goods or services are imported/exported for personal use (non-commercial).
Transactions conducted by Government Departments or Ministries.
Import or export activities restricted by DGFT notifications.
However, for most commercial transactions, IEC is compulsory and permanent once issued.
Global Business Recognition: Enables your business to legally participate in international trade.
Easy Expansion: Allows seamless import and export of goods or services worldwide.
Government Schemes: Access to DGFT, MEIS, SEIS, and EPC incentive programs.
Bank & Customs Validity: Required for foreign transactions and customs clearance.
Lifetime Validity: One-time registration, no renewal required.
Business Growth: Builds credibility with foreign buyers and suppliers.
PAN Card of business or proprietor.
Aadhaar Card of proprietor / partners / directors.
Passport-size photograph of applicant.
Bank details – cancelled cheque or banker certificate.
Address proof of business (rent agreement / ownership paper / electricity bill).
Digital Signature Certificate (if company or LLP).
Email ID and mobile number linked to Aadhaar for OTP verification.
1️⃣ Business Evaluation
Our experts determine your business constitution (Proprietorship / Partnership / LLP / Pvt Ltd) and verify PAN details.
2️⃣ Preparation of Documents
Required documents are prepared in soft copy format according to DGFT portal standards.
3️⃣ Filing Application (ANF-2A Form)
We submit your online application through the DGFT portal using PAN as login credentials.
4️⃣ Payment of Government Fee
The prescribed application fee is paid online via DGFT payment gateway.
5️⃣ OTP Verification and Submission
Authentication is done through OTP on linked mobile and email. Details are reviewed before submission.
6️⃣ IEC Code Issuance
Once approved, DGFT issues a digitally signed e-IEC certificate, downloadable immediately from the portal.
⏱ Timeline: Normally 1–2 working days (if all details are correct).
IEC is a 10-digit alphanumeric code unique to each business entity.
Example: 0512345678
The first two digits represent the issuing office code.
The remaining digits represent the business identity.
Once issued, it remains valid for the lifetime of the business and does not require periodic renewal.
Can export and import goods without restrictions (subject to DGFT rules).
Eligible to register with Export Promotion Councils (EPCs).
Eligible for various customs and GST refund benefits.
Can participate in international trade fairs and exhibitions.
Enables exporters to claim benefits under RoDTEP, RoSCTL, and SEIS schemes.
Any change in business details such as address, directors, ownership, or bank account must be updated within 30 days on the DGFT portal.
Steps for Modification:
Login to DGFT portal with credentials.
Choose “Amend IEC” and update relevant details.
Upload supporting documents (NOC, Board Resolution, etc.).
Submit and download updated certificate.
Rajasthan Filings assists in all types of amendments — name change, branch addition, or director replacement — to ensure continued validity.
As per the DGFT Notification No. 58/2015-2020 dated 12th February 2021, all IEC holders must confirm and update their IEC details annually, even if no changes occur.
Failure to update may lead to deactivation of IEC. Reactivation is possible by updating details online anytime thereafter. Rajasthan Filings provides complete renewal and update support every financial year.
Mismatch between business name on PAN and application.
Wrong bank details or IFSC code.
Incorrect address proof or expired documents.
Failure to digitally sign application for companies or LLPs.
Ignoring annual update requirement.
Our compliance experts verify every document before submission, preventing rejections and delays.
Operating imports or exports without a valid IEC can lead to:
Seizure of goods by Customs authorities.
Denial of export benefits or GST refunds.
Delay in foreign remittance clearance by banks.
Penalty under Section 11(2) of the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992.
A textile manufacturer from Rajasthan wanted to start exporting garments to Dubai. With the help of Rajasthan Filings, the firm obtained an IEC code within one day. This allowed them to register with the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) and claim benefits under the RoDTEP Scheme, increasing profit margins by 5%.
The firm later used the same IEC for importing specialized fabrics, proving that a single code supports both export and import activities for life.
End-to-end online application and document filing
Verification of business and bank details to avoid rejections
Fast processing and same-day IEC approval
Assistance in IEC modification, reactivation, and annual updates
Expert guidance on export incentives, DGFT schemes, and EPC registration
Lifetime client support for all DGFT-related compliance
IEC is not just a license — it is the passport for your business to enter the global market. With India expanding its export base through “Make in India” and “Digital Trade Facilitation,” every manufacturer, trader, and service provider has an opportunity to explore global buyers.
IEC opens the door to export incentives, foreign clients, and business partnerships that can transform a small domestic operation into an international brand.
Obtaining an Import Export Code (IEC) is the first step towards global business growth. It legitimizes your trade operations, simplifies customs procedures, and connects you to opportunities worldwide.
With Rajasthan Filings, you can complete your IEC registration online within a single day. Our team ensures accuracy, transparency, and long-term compliance so that your business can grow beyond borders confidently and lawfully.
Start your journey in international trade today with expert support from Rajasthan Filings.
IEC is a 10-digit unique identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India. It is mandatory for every individual or business that imports or exports goods or services from India.
Any person or entity engaged in international trade — including manufacturers, exporters, importers, e-commerce sellers, or service providers — must obtain an IEC before starting cross-border transactions. Even sole proprietors conducting overseas business are required to have one.
Yes. IEC is compulsory for customs clearance of goods, international bank remittances, and participation in export-promotion schemes. However, it is not required for personal, non-commercial use or transactions conducted by government departments.
IEC is valid for a lifetime once issued and does not require renewal.
However, as per DGFT’s latest notification, every IEC holder must confirm or update details annually between April and June; otherwise, the IEC may be deactivated until updated.
The registration process is completely online and, if all documents are correct, the IEC certificate is generally issued within one to two working days from the date of application.
Yes. IEC can be obtained by individuals, proprietors, and freelancers who deal in international trade. A business registration (GST or MSME) is not mandatory for applying, though it is advisable for commercial credibility.
PAN card of the business or proprietor
Aadhaar card of the applicant
Passport-size photo
Proof of business address (rent agreement / electricity bill)
Cancelled cheque or bank certificate
Valid email ID and mobile number linked to Aadhaar
Yes. Any change in address, directors, ownership, or bank details must be updated within 30 days on the DGFT portal. Rajasthan Filings provides complete assistance for modification, branch addition, or reactivation of an IEC.
If annual details are not confirmed, the IEC may be deactivated by DGFT.
Once deactivated, it cannot be used for customs clearance or bank transactions until reactivated by filing an update request online.
Because we offer:
100 % online application and documentation process
Same-day filing with DGFT and quick code issuance
Assistance in amendments and annual updates
Expert CA / CS review to prevent rejections
Lifetime customer support for export-related compliance
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