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How to Apply for IEC Code Import Export License 2026

IEC Code - 10-digit import/export license from DGFT. ₹500. Mandatory for international trade.

📁 Business ⏱️ 15-30 mins 💰 ₹500

About This Guide

IEC (Importer Exporter Code) is 10-digit code by DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade). Mandatory for all importers/exporters. Apply online at dgft.gov.in. Aadhaar-based. Fee ₹500. Lifetime validity (annual update mandatory). Linked to PAN.

Eligibility Criteria

Indian individual/company
PAN mandatory
Aadhaar verification
Bank account in business name
Intent to import/export
Not Iran/Cuba/North Korea/etc. blocked entities

Documents Required

Keep these documents ready before starting application. Missing documents = delayed approval.

PAN of entity
Aadhaar of authorized signatory
Bank certificate / Cancelled cheque
Address proof of business
Cover letter on letterhead
Photo of authorized signatory
Digital signature (DSC) - companies

Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow these steps in order. Each step is critical - skip none.

Visit DGFT

dgft.gov.in. Click Apply for New IEC.

Aadhaar e-KYC

OTP verification.

Profile Creation

Personal details auto-fetched.

Application Form

Business details, type (Proprietorship/Partnership/LLP/Company), address.

Bank Details

Account in business name. Auto-validation via API.

Upload Documents

PAN, address proof, cancelled cheque, photo.

Branch Details

Multi-branch - additional branches listing.

Pay Fee

₹500.

Submit

OTP verification.

IEC Generated

INSTANT for most cases. 10-digit code.

Download Certificate

PDF Certificate with QR code.

Annual Update

Mandatory once a year (April-June). Free.

Key Benefits

Mandatory for international trade
10-digit lifetime code
Quick instant processing
Annual update only
GST/customs integration
Bank LC/BG eligibility
Export incentive eligibility (RoDTEP, EPCG)
MEIS/SEIS schemes (legacy)
Foreign Trade Policy benefits

What Happens After Application?

IEC instant. Use for shipping bills, customs, GST exports. Annual update mandatory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Annual update missed?

IEC suspended. Cannot import/export. Update + reactivate. Critical compliance.

IEC for service exports?

Yes, mandatory. Even IT/software exports need IEC for FIRC, RBI clearance.