Import Export Code (IEC): Your Gateway to Global Trade
The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit permanent number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce. It is mandatory for any person or business engaged in importing goods into India or exporting goods from India.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining an IEC, setting up AD Code with customs, getting RCMC from Export Promotion Councils, and understanding product-specific licensing requirements.
What is Import Export Code (IEC)?
Key characteristics of IEC:
- • 10-digit unique identification number
- • Issued by DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade)
- • Permanent validity - no renewal required
- • No filing or compliance requirements
- • Pan-based number
- • Required for both imports and exports
When is IEC Required?
- • Importing any goods into India
- • Exporting any goods from India
- • Sending or receiving services (in specified cases)
- • Availing export incentives and benefits
Exemptions from IEC
IEC is NOT required in the following cases:
- • Import/export of personal goods not related to trade
- • Import/export by government ministries/departments
- • Import/export by notified charitable institutions
- • Specific exempted categories as notified by DGFT
Note: Even for exempted categories, IEC may be required to avail export benefits or for specific customs procedures.
Step-by-Step IEC Application Process
Register on DGFT Portal
Visit dgft.gov.in and click on "Register" to create a user account using your PAN, mobile number, and email ID. Verify through OTP.
Login and Start Application
Login with your credentials. Navigate to "Online Application" > "IEC" > "Apply for IEC". The form will be pre-filled with your PAN details.
Fill Application Details
Provide business details including name, address, contact information, bank account details, and nature of business. Select appropriate business category.
Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of PAN card, address proof, cancelled cheque, and photograph. All documents must be clear and in specified format.
Pay Application Fee
Pay the government fee of ₹500 through online payment (net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI). Save the payment receipt.
Submit and Download
Review all details and submit the application. IEC is typically issued immediately or within 3-5 working days. Download the e-IEC certificate from the portal.
AD Code Registration
AD Code (Authorized Dealer Code) is a 14-digit number obtained from your bank that handles foreign exchange transactions:
- • Required for customs clearance of import/export shipments
- • Obtained from the bank where you maintain your current account
- • Must be registered with customs at each port of operation
- • Multiple AD Codes allowed if using multiple banks
How to Get AD Code:
- 1. Request AD Code from your bank's forex branch
- 2. Bank provides AD Code letter on letterhead
- 3. Register AD Code with ICEGATE (customs portal)
- 4. Link AD Code to your IEC
RCMC Registration (Optional but Recommended)
Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) is issued by Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) and is required to avail export incentives:
FIEO
Federation of Indian Export Organisations - for general exports
APEDA
Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority
SRTEPC
Synthetic and Rayon Textiles Export Promotion Council
CAPEXIL
Chemicals and Allied Products Export Promotion Council
Product-Specific Licenses
| Product Category | License/Certificate Required | Issuing Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Food Products | FSSAI License | Food Safety Authority |
| Electronics | BIS Certification | Bureau of Indian Standards |
| Drugs & Medicines | Drug Manufacturing License | CDSCO |
| Wireless Equipment | WPC License | Wireless Planning Commission |
| Agricultural Products | Phyto-Sanitary Certificate | Plant Quarantine Authority |
Using Your IEC
For Imports
- • Mention IEC on Bill of Entry
- • Provide to customs broker
- • Required for opening Letter of Credit
- • Needed for foreign remittances
For Exports
- • Mention IEC on Shipping Bill
- • Provide to freight forwarder
- • Required for claiming export benefits
- • Needed for receiving foreign payments
Modifying or Surrendering IEC
Address or Details Change
File online modification application on DGFT portal. Upload supporting documents. Fee: ₹200 for each section modified.
Surrendering IEC
If no longer required, IEC can be surrendered online. Once surrendered, it cannot be reactivated. New application needed for future trade.
Duplicate IEC
If certificate is lost, download duplicate from DGFT portal using login credentials. No fee for downloading e-IEC.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Using wrong PAN (use business PAN, not personal)
- • Providing incorrect bank details
- • Not registering AD Code with customs
- • Missing export benefits by not getting RCMC
- • Not updating address changes in IEC
Quick Checklist
For IEC Application
- ✓ Valid PAN Card
- ✓ Address proof of business
- ✓ Cancelled cheque
- ✓ Passport photograph
- ✓ Mobile and email for OTP
For Customs Clearance
- ✓ Valid IEC
- ✓ AD Code from bank
- ✓ AD Code registered with customs
- ✓ Product licenses (if required)