IEC (Import Export Code) Registration
Any business that wants to import or export goods or services from India must first obtain an Import Export Code (IEC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) — without it, customs clearance, foreign remittance for trade, and export incentive schemes are simply not accessible. Justsetu LLP files your IEC application on the DGFT portal and also manages the mandatory annual update so your code stays active.
What Is an IEC?
The Import Export Code is a 10-digit registration (typically the same as the entity’s PAN) issued by DGFT, required by any person or business engaged in import or export of goods or services, except for specific categories exempted under the Foreign Trade Policy (such as import/export for personal use not connected with trade).
Fee and Validity
The government application fee for a new IEC is ₹500, paid online at the time of application. Once issued, the IEC has permanent, lifetime validity — there is no renewal requirement — but the holder must complete an annual online update of IEC details on the DGFT portal between April and June each year to keep the code active; failing to update can result in deactivation.
Documents Required
- PAN of the applicant/entity.
- Aadhaar (for proprietors) or incorporation documents (for companies/LLPs).
- a cancelled cheque or bank certificate confirming the entity’s current account details.
- address proof of the business premises.
Process & Timeline
- Preparing the application (ANF-2A) on the DGFT portal with entity and bank details.
- Uploading supporting documents and digitally signing the application (DSC or Aadhaar-based e-sign).
- Paying the ₹500 government fee online.
- DGFT processes the application and issues the IEC electronically, typically within 1–2 working days for a complete, error-free application.
- Ongoing: annual update of IEC details each April–June, regardless of whether any details have changed.
Why Justsetu LLP
The annual April–June update is the step almost every business forgets about once the code is issued — we track it on your compliance calendar so your IEC never lapses right when you need it for a shipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
₹500, paid online at the time of application on the DGFT portal.
No, the IEC itself has lifetime validity and does not need renewal, but details must be updated annually on the DGFT portal between April and June.
The IEC can be deactivated for non-updation, which would block your ability to carry out import/export transactions until it is reactivated.
Yes, IEC is generally required for export of services as well where foreign exchange remittance is involved, subject to specific RBI/DGFT exemptions in limited cases.
Yes, individuals, proprietorships, partnerships, LLPs, and companies can all apply for IEC in their own name/PAN.
Typically 1–2 working days from a complete, error-free online application, as the process is largely automated.
No, they serve different purposes — GST registration relates to indirect tax, while IEC is specifically required to legally undertake cross-border import/export transactions.
Yes, changes such as address, bank details, or directors can be updated online on the DGFT portal, and doing so promptly is important to keep the annual update compliant.
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