IEC (Import Export Code) is a mandatory document for businesses engaged in import and export activities within the territory of India, regulated by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Department of Commerce, Government of India. This 10-digit unique number serves as identification for import and export businesses, and without it, such trades cannot operate in India unless specified otherwise.

Here are some important features of Import Export Code (IE Code):

• IE Code is valid for any type of businesses, including Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Private Limited, or Charitable Organization involved in commercial import and export activities in India, without exemption based on business size.
• IE Code is compulsory for customs clearance of imported or exported shipments and for bank processing for transferring/receiving money abroad.
• It is a lifetime ID proof issued by DGFT and remains valid until withdrawn.
• No IE Code is required for traders registered under GST. In such cases, the trader's PAN serves as the new IE Code at the time of import/export, and for items imported/exported for personal purposes, or import/export through Government of India Departments and Ministries, and Notified Charitable Institutes.
• The unit that ceases import/export operations should surrender the IE Code with an application to the DGFT Department.
• Conducting import/export in India without a valid IE Code is a legal offence, unless otherwise stated under the rules of Customs applicable in India/Abroad.

IE Code is a mandatory document for businesses in India engaged in import/export activities.

The registered unit receives various legal rights, priorities, and benefits from authorities such as DGFT, Export Promotion Council, and Customs.

IE Code registration does not require compliance with filing returns with DGFT, even if import/export activities are conducted.

The IE Code application process is simple and does not require import/export transaction proofs.

IE Code does not require renewal as it is valid for a lifetime.

1. Application Filing
2. Submission Fee and Update
3. IE Code Delivery

• Individual’s/Firm’s/Company’s PAN Card
• Applicant’s copy of Voter ID/Driving License/Aadhaar Card/Passport
• Individual’s/Company’s/Firm’s cancelled cheque copy
• Incorporation Certificate/Partnership Deed
• Address proof of the business space (Registered). For rented business space, rental agreement of the same
• Landlord’s NOC, where the business space is located
• If you own the business space, property papers
• Electricity/Water Bills of business place

1. Documents Collection and Checking
   Provide us the required information and documents. First thing we’ll do before processing the application is to check the correctness and relevance of these papers to make it a hassle-free process without any rejection/complication.
2. Drafting IE Code Application
   We’ll be finalizing the documents and information and proceed to draft your IE Application in Aayaat Niryaat Form No. 2A from the concerned Department of India. Application along with documents will be submitted and we’ll update you on time (Application can be filed online/offline).
3. Application Submission
   We’ll be arranging to submit the IE Code Application to the Regional DGFT Office where the business is registered. Your DSC is required for submitting the Application online. The Application can also be submitted offline.
4. License Procurement and Delivery
   Once submitted, your application will be reviewed thoroughly by the Department of DGFT and if approved, you will be granted the IE Code within 15 days and it will be delivered by email.
5. CONGRATULATIONS!!
   Now, as you’ve your IE Code, you’re a legal entity to operate Import and Export from India.