IEC Code — Full Details

✔️ What Is IEC?

IEC stands for Importer-Exporter Code. It is a unique 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India.

This code is mandatory for any person or business that wants to carry out import or export of goods or services in India — you CANNOT legally import or export without it.

 

📌 Purpose & Importance of IEC Code

🧾 Main Functions

✔️ Serves as a unique business identifier for trade across borders.
✔️ Facilitates customs clearance and shipment processing.
✔️ Allows electronic filing, foreign exchange transactions, and export incentives.
✔️ Helps government agencies track imports/exports and enforce regulations.

Without an IEC, customs won’t process your goods at ports, and banks won’t facilitate foreign currency transactions.

 

📌 Who Needs an IEC Code?

Anyone who wants to import into or export from India, including:

✔️ Individuals
✔️ Sole proprietorships
✔️ Partnerships
✔️ LLPs (Limited Liability Partnerships)
✔️ Private/Public companies
✔️ Trusts or HUFs (Hindu Undivided Families)

No separate IEC is required for personal items imported for non-commercial use or shipments by the government or specified agencies as per rules.

 

📌 IEC Code Format & Meaning

📌 The IEC is a 10-digit numeric code.
✔️ Each code is unique to the entity.
✔️ It generally relates to your business PAN (especially after GST implementation).

 

📌 Validity & Renewal

✔️ Lifetime validity — once issued, IEC remains valid until it is canceled or surrendered.
✔️ There is no need for annual renewal.

If you want to stop using it, you can surrender it to DGFT, and DGFT will cancel it.

 

📌 Benefits of IEC Code

⭐ Key Advantages

✔️ Legally enables import and export operations.
✔️ Allows access to export incentives & duty-free benefits offered under India’s trade policies.
✔️ Facilitates smooth customs clearance and foreign exchange transactions.
✔️ Improves business credibility and global market reach.

 

📌 Documents Required

📌 Typical documents you must have before applying:

For a Proprietorship:
✔️ PAN card
✔️ Aadhaar card
✔️ Cancelled cheque or bank certificate
✔️ Address proof (electricity bill / rent agreement)

For a Partnership / LLP / Company:
✔️ Entity PAN card
✔️ Certificate of Incorporation
✔️ Aadhaar & PAN of partners/directors
✔️ Cancelled cheque / bank certificate
✔️ Address proof of business

(Exact documents may vary slightly; always check DGFT guidelines.)

 

📌 Application Procedure (Step-by-Step)

Here’s how you apply for an IEC:

1. Visit DGFT Online Portal — DGFT’s official website for IEC submission.

2. Fill Application Form ANF 2A — with all business details.

3. Upload Documents — PAN, bank details, ID, address proofs etc.

4. Pay Application Fee — usually a nominal fee (e.g., ₹500 approximately).

5. Submit & Track — you’ll receive IEC via email once approved.

⏱ Typical processing may take about 5–15 working days, depending on correctness and completeness of documents.

 

📌 Modification / Updating IEC

If your business changes — e.g., name, address, partners — you can update your IEC details by filing a modification application on the DGFT portal.

Changes may include:
✔️ Address change
✔️ Addition of new branches
✔️ Change in constitution or PAN linked details

 

📝 Advisory Draft: Import-Export Code (IEC)

You can use the below draft text as an official advisory or report section:

 

DRAFT ADVISORY — IMPORTER-EXPORTER CODE (IEC)

The Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) is a mandatory 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, for all entities engaging in import or export of goods and services.

The IEC serves as a unique identifier used for customs clearance, foreign exchange transactions, shipment documentation, and compliance with India’s foreign trade regulations. Without a valid IEC, no person or entity is legally permitted to import or export goods/services from India.

Once granted, the IEC is valid for life, eliminating annual renewals or filings, although requests for cancellation or modification can be submitted when business details change.

All applicants are required to submit relevant business documentation and pay applicable fees through the DGFT online portal. Timely and accurate submission will ensure prompt issuance of IEC and enable efficient participation in international trade.

📝 1. IEC Application Cover Letter (Formal Letter Format)

Email

SUBJECT

Application for Issuance of Importer Exporter Code (IEC)

To
The Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
Ministry of Commerce & Industry
Government of India

Subject: Application for Issuance of Importer Exporter Code (IEC)

Respected Sir/Madam,

I/We hereby submit an application for the issuance of an Importer Exporter Code (IEC) as required under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992.

The applicant intends to undertake import and/or export of goods and/or services in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Foreign Trade Policy. All required documents, including PAN, address proof, bank details, and identity proofs, have been duly uploaded on the DGFT portal along with the prescribed application form.

I/We confirm that the information furnished in the application is true, correct, and complete to the best of my/our knowledge. I/We undertake to abide by all applicable laws, rules, and regulations governing foreign trade in India.

Kindly process the application and grant the Importer Exporter Code at the earliest.

Thanking you.

Yours faithfully,
Authorized Signatory
Name: __________
Designation: __________
Firm/Company Name: __________
Address: __________
Contact No.: __________
Email ID: __________

 

📝 2. Professional Advisory Draft (For Clients / Businesses)

Email

SUBJECT

Advisory on Importer Exporter Code (IEC) Registration

Dear Client,

This is to inform you that obtaining an Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is mandatory for any individual or entity intending to engage in import or export of goods or services from India.

The IEC is a 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and is required for customs clearance, international trade transactions, and availing benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy. Without a valid IEC, banks and customs authorities will not process import/export transactions.

The IEC is issued with lifetime validity and does not require annual renewal. However, any change in business details such as address, constitution, or banking information must be updated on the DGFT portal.

We recommend initiating the IEC registration process at the earliest to avoid delays in international trade operations.

Please feel free to contact us for assistance with IEC registration, modification, or compliance.

Warm regards,
Authorized Consultant
Firm Name
Contact Details

 

📝 3. IEC Declaration / Undertaking Format

Email

 

SUBJECT

Declaration and Undertaking for IEC Application

I/We hereby declare that the information provided in the IEC application form and supporting documents is true, correct, and complete.

I/We undertake to comply with the provisions of the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, the Foreign Trade Policy, and all rules and regulations issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade from time to time.

I/We further declare that no IEC has been obtained previously in my/our name or in the name of the firm/company, except as disclosed in the application.

In case of any change in business particulars, I/We undertake to update the same on the DGFT portal without delay.

Place: __________
Date: __________

Signature of Applicant / Authorized Signatory
Name: __________
Designation: __________

 

📝 4. Short IEC Advisory (For Website / Notice / Circular)

Email

 

SUBJECT

Important Advisory Regarding Importer Exporter Code (IEC)

All businesses and individuals intending to undertake import or export activities are required to obtain an Importer Exporter Code (IEC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

The IEC is mandatory for customs clearance, foreign exchange transactions, and availing export incentives. The code is valid for a lifetime and does not require renewal. Any changes in business details must be updated on the DGFT portal.

Non-compliance may result in delays or restrictions in international trade operations.

📝 5. IEC Modification / Amendment Request Letter

(Used when there is change in address, bank details, business name, partners/directors, etc.)

Email

 

SUBJECT

Request for Modification of Importer Exporter Code (IEC) Details

 

To
The Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
Ministry of Commerce & Industry
Government of India

Subject: Request for Modification of Importer Exporter Code (IEC) Details

Respected Sir/Madam,

I/We wish to inform you that certain details mentioned in our Importer Exporter Code (IEC) require modification due to changes in business particulars.

The details requiring amendment have been duly updated through the DGFT online portal along with supporting documents. The IEC was originally issued in the name of __________________ bearing IEC No. ____________.

I/We request you to kindly take the updated information on record and approve the modification at the earliest.

I/We confirm that the revised details are true and correct to the best of my/our knowledge and are in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992.

Thanking you.

Yours faithfully,
Authorized Signatory
Name: __________
Designation: __________
Firm/Company Name: __________
IEC No.: __________
Address: __________
Contact No.: __________

 

📝 6. IEC Cancellation / Surrender Letter

(Used when business is closed or no longer engaged in import/export)

Email

 

SUBJECT

Request for Cancellation / Surrender of Importer Exporter Code (IEC)

To
The Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
Ministry of Commerce & Industry
Government of India

Subject: Request for Cancellation / Surrender of Importer Exporter Code (IEC)

Respected Sir/Madam,

I/We hereby request cancellation/surrender of the Importer Exporter Code (IEC) issued in the name of __________________ bearing IEC No. ____________.

The firm/company is no longer engaged in import or export activities, and there are no pending obligations, liabilities, or proceedings under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992 or any other applicable laws.

I/We request you to kindly cancel the above-mentioned IEC and update your records accordingly.

Thanking you.

Yours faithfully,
Authorized Signatory
Name: __________
Designation: __________
Firm/Company Name: __________
IEC No.: __________
Address: __________
Place: __________
Date: __________

 

📘 BONUS: One-Page IEC Advisory (Exam / File / Client Notes)

🔹 Key Legal Reference

• Issued under Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992

• Authority: DGFT – Ministry of Commerce & Industry

🔹 Mandatory When

• Importing goods into India

• Exporting goods or services from India

🔹 Not Required When

• Personal imports (non-commercial)

• Government departments (specific exemptions)

🔹 Validity

• Lifetime

• No annual filing or renewal

🔹 Compliance Tip

• Annual IEC confirmation/update on DGFT portal is mandatory to keep IEC active.

📝 7. Client Engagement Letter – IEC Registration Services

Email

 

SUBJECT

Engagement Letter for Importer Exporter Code (IEC) Registration Services

Dear Client,

This letter is to confirm our engagement to assist you with the application and registration of the Importer Exporter Code (IEC) with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

Scope of Services:
• Preparation and filing of IEC application
• Uploading of required documents
• Coordination for approval and issuance of IEC
• Basic advisory related to IEC compliance

Client Responsibilities:
• Providing correct and complete documents and information
• Timely responses to queries raised by DGFT, if any

Fees & Timelines:
Professional fees shall be mutually agreed. IEC is generally issued within prescribed timelines subject to DGFT approval.

This engagement is governed by applicable Indian laws and regulations.

Please acknowledge your acceptance by signing below.

Warm regards,
Authorized Consultant
Firm Name
Contact Details

Accepted By:
Client Name: __________
Signature: __________
Date: __________

 

📝 8. Bank Letter for IEC Purpose (Foreign Remittance / Trade)

Email

 

SUBJECT

Submission of Importer Exporter Code (IEC) for Banking Records

To
The Branch Manager
________________ Bank
________________ Branch

Subject: Submission of Importer Exporter Code (IEC) for Banking Records

Dear Sir/Madam,

We hereby submit our Importer Exporter Code (IEC) bearing number ____________, issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), for your records.

The IEC is required for processing foreign exchange transactions related to import/export activities. We request you to kindly update the same in your banking system.

Thanking you.

Yours sincerely,
Authorized Signatory
Name: __________
Firm/Company Name: __________
Account No.: __________
Contact No.: __________

 

📋 9. IEC Registration Checklist (Professional Use)

✔️ Basic Requirements

• PAN Card (Individual / Entity)

• Aadhaar of Proprietor / Directors / Partners

• Active Mobile Number & Email ID

✔️ Business Proof

• Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed

• GST Certificate (if applicable)

• Business Address Proof

✔️ Bank Details

• Cancelled Cheque

• Bank Certificate / Statement

✔️ Portal

• DGFT Login

• Digital submission of ANF-2A

 

📌 10. Compliance Advisory (IMPORTANT)

⚠️ IEC holders must annually confirm or update IEC details on DGFT portal, failing which the IEC may be deactivated.

 

🎯 You now have a COMPLETE IEC DRAFT KIT:

✔️ Application letter
✔️ Advisory draft
✔️ Declaration
✔️ Modification letter
✔️ Cancellation letter
✔️ Engagement letter
✔️ Bank letter
✔️ Checklist & compliance notes