DGFT IEC Code Registration: Step-by-Step Online Application Process

An Import-Export Code (IEC) is a mandatory 10-digit license issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) for businesses involved in international trade. Whether you're an exporter shipping goods overseas or an importer bringing products into India, an IEC is essential for customs clearance, international bank transactions, and availing export incentives.

As of 2023, the IEC registration process has moved entirely online, simplifying the application process and reducing paperwork. This guide will provide a detailed step-by-step process on how to apply for an IEC code on the DGFT portal, including eligibility criteria, required documents, common errors, and FAQs.

By the end of this article, you'll have a clear roadmap to successfully obtaining your IEC registration without any hassle.

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What is an IEC Code & Why is it Important?

An IEC (Import-Export Code) is a unique 10-digit number issued by DGFT under the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992. It is a lifelong valid license required for businesses engaging in international trade.

Why Do You Need an IEC Code?

✅ Customs Clearance: Essential for clearing imported/exported goods.

✅ International Transactions: Required to process payments with overseas buyers/suppliers.

✅ Government Benefits: Necessary to claim export incentives & duty exemptions under DGFT schemes.

✅ Legal Compliance: Mandated by Indian trade laws to conduct import/export activities.

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Who Can Apply for an IEC Code?

Any individual, business, or entity engaged in import or export activities can apply for an IEC. Eligible applicants include:

• ✅ Proprietorship Firms

• ✅ Partnership Firms

• ✅ Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)

• ✅ Private/Public Limited Companies

• ✅ Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs)

• ✅ Societies, Trusts & Other Entities

  
  

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Documents needed for DGFT Registration

Ensure you have scanned copies of the following documents in PDF format:

📌 For Individual/Proprietorship:

✅ PAN Card

✅ Aadhaar Card (Linked with PAN)

✅ Bank Certificate or Canceled Cheque

📌 For Companies/Firms:

✅ PAN of Company/Firm

✅ Certificate of Incorporation/Partnership Deed

✅ GST

✅ MSME Registration

✅ Bank Certificate or Canceled Cheque

✅ Address Proof (Electricity Bill, Rent Agreement, etc.)

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Step-by-Step IEC Registration Process on the DGFT Portal

Follow these steps to register and obtain your IEC online via the DGFT portal:

Step 1: Visit the DGFT Portal

1️⃣ Go to the official DGFT website: https://www.dgft.gov.in/

2️⃣ Click on “Apply for IEC” under the Services tab.

Step 2: Register/Login to DGFT Portal

To register at DGFT:

1️⃣ Go to the official DGFT website https://dgft.gov.in.

2️⃣ Click on "Register" and select "Importer/Exporter" as your user type.

3️⃣ Enter your email and mobile number, then complete the OTP verification process.

4️⃣ Once verified, you’ll receive a temporary password, which you must update upon first login.

Step 3: Fill IEC Online Application (ANF-2A Form)

1️⃣ After logging in, select “Apply IEC” and :

2️⃣ Fill the ANF-2A form with the following details

2️⃣ Click on “Start Fresh Application” button.

3️⃣ Enter the required details

(All the Mandatory fields have been marked with a Red Asterisk (*). The Draft will only be saved if the Mandatory details in the “Basic Details” Section and “Firm Address Details” Section.)

✅ Business Entity Type (Proprietorship, LLP, Company, etc.)

✅ Business Name & Address

✅ PAN Details (Mandatory for tax compliance)

✅ Bank Account Details (For financial transactions)

✅ Director/Owner Details (For verification purposes)

4️⃣ Upload the required documents in the prescribed format.

Step 5: Pay IEC Registration Fees

✅ Select Online Payment Mode (Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, UPI).

✅ Once payment is processed, you’ll receive a payment acknowledgment receipt.

Step 6: Submit Application & Download IEC Certificate

✅ Click on Submit Application after verification.

✅ You will receive a unique IEC Application Reference Number (ARN) for tracking.

✅ The IEC Certificate is issued within 1-2 working days and can be downloaded from the DGFT portal.

For more detailed Step by step process, click here

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How long does it take to get an IEC code?

You will get a provisional certificate in email within 5-10 minutes in your e-mail. However,  IEC codes are issued within 1-2 working days upon verification.

Do I need to renew my IEC every year?

Can an individual apply for IEC without a business?

How can I modify my IEC after registration?