Import Export Code (IEC)

DGFT Importer-Exporter Code — the first registration for any cross-border trade.

How Import Export Code (IEC) works

1Identify
2Plan
3Approve
4Deliver

Overview of Import Export Code (IEC)

Import Export Code (IEC Code) is a mandatory 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade to individuals or businesses involved in importing or exporting goods and services from India. It is required for customs clearance, foreign currency remittances through banks, and availing export incentives or government benefits. Under the current system, new IECs are PAN-based, meaning the IEC number is the same as the entity’s PAN. However, separate registration on the DGFT portal is compulsory to activate the IEC and legally conduct international trade.

PAN-based IEC system
DGFT registration mandatory
Valid for lifetime
Mandatory for imports
Mandatory for exports

Documents required

The exact list depends on your business type and state. These are the documents most applications start with; we confirm your full list on the first call.

About your business

PAN of the business and of the proprietor, partners or directors
Certificate of incorporation, partnership deed or other proof of constitution
Address proof of the premises – rent agreement or ownership document, with a recent utility bill
GST registration, where you have one

About the applicant

Aadhaar or other ID proof of the authorised signatory
Passport-size photograph, email address and mobile number
Board resolution or authorisation letter for the person signing

How we handle Import Export Code (IEC)

1
Identify
We find the right certification or testing for your product and market. Free, within 24 hours.
2
Plan
Together we prepare a plan covering the scope, labs, documents, cost and timeline.
3
Approve
You review the plan and give the go-ahead. You stay in control of every decision.
4
Deliver
We run the testing and filing, and follow up until you have the result you need.

Who needs Import Export Code (IEC)

Whether you need Import Export Code (IEC) depends on what your business makes, sells, imports or employs, and where it operates. Tell us about your business and we will confirm whether it applies, which category you fall under and what follows after registration.

Check whether it applies to you

Cost & fee structure

The total depends on your business category and state. Your written quote lists each part separately:

1.Government fee
Set by the department or board that issues the registration, and shown in your quote at the published rate.
2.Our professional fee
A fixed fee for preparing and filing the application and following up until it is approved.

Send your product and number of models for a written quote with each fee listed separately.

Request a quote

Validity & renewal

Some registrations are valid for life; others must be renewed every year or every few years.
Many come with annual returns or periodic filings that keep them active.
Changes to your business name, address, constitution or activities usually need an amendment.
We record your renewal and filing dates and remind you before they are due.

Frequently asked questions

Who needs Import Export Code (IEC)?

It depends on your business activity, size and location. Share a few details and we will confirm, free of charge, whether you need it.

How long does Import Export Code (IEC) take?

It depends on how complete your documents are and on the issuing department’s processing time. We give you a written timeline before you start and update you at every stage.

How much does Import Export Code (IEC) cost?

There are two parts: the government fee and our professional fee. We quote both separately and in writing before any work starts.

Can Instacertify handle Import Export Code (IEC) end to end?

Yes. We confirm the requirement, prepare and file the application and follow up with the department until it is approved.

What our clients say

“Instacertify helped us get BIS CRS certification for our entire product range within just 6 weeks. Their team handled everything from documentation to lab coordination. Highly professional service.”

Akash GuptaBIS CRS · Electronics brand

“They handled complete certification for us, from ISO 9001 to BIS for PVC cables and plugs. Thorough, professional and always available — they knew what needed to be done and when.”

Shivank VishnoiISO 9001 & BIS · Cables

“Getting TEC approvals for our access-control products seemed confusing and complex, but Instacertify made it simple.”

Jiten ShahTEC approval · Access control

Not sure which certification you need?

Send us the product name and the countries you sell in. A specialist replies with the standards that apply, the documents to prepare, the lab cost and the timeline. The assessment is free.

The list of approvals comes to you in writing
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