IEC (Import-Export Code) Registration

Who can use this

• Sole proprietors
• Partnership firms
• Companies
• LLPs
• Government organizations
• NGOs (if eligible)
• Any business entity importing or exporting goods

Who cannot use this

• Individuals for personal imports/exports
• Businesses without PAN
• Businesses blacklisted or penalized by Customs

Documents required

• PAN certificate
• Aadhaar card
• Bank account statement (recent, 3 months old)
• Shop/office address proof (electricity bill, lease deed, or property tax)
• GST certificate (if registered)
• Memorandum/Partnership deed (for companies/partnerships)

Step-by-step process

1. Visit DGFT portal for IEC registration — Go to the official IEC application portal (https://www.dgft.gov.in). Click on 'IEC Application' link. You can apply as 'New User' or existing account holder.
2. Register as new user on IEC portal — Click 'New User'. Provide your PAN, email address, and password. Verify your email by clicking the confirmation link sent to your inbox.
3. Log in and access IEC application form — Log in with your PAN and password. Click 'Apply for IEC'. The application form will load with basic sections.
4. Provide applicant details (proprietor/director/partner) — Enter name, designation, email, mobile, date of birth, and Aadhaar number of the proprietor/director/authorized partner. Select applicant type.
5. Enter business entity details — Provide business name, entity type (proprietorship, partnership, company, LLP), business commencement date, and CIN/FSSAI/GST registration details (if applicable).
6. Enter registered office address — Provide complete business address: street, locality, city, state, PIN code. Upload address proof (electricity bill or lease deed).
7. Declare bank account details — Enter your business bank account number, IFSC code, account holder name, and bank name. This account will be used for GST refunds and trade payments.
8. Specify items to be imported or exported — List the types of goods you plan to import/export (e.g., textiles, machinery, chemicals). Provide HS codes (Harmonized System codes) if known.
9. Upload supporting documents — Upload PAN certificate, Aadhaar card, business address proof, bank account statement, and GST certificate (if applicable). All documents must be clear and legible.
10. Review application before final submission — The portal will display a summary of all entered information and uploaded documents. Verify each section carefully for accuracy and completeness.
11. Submit IEC application — Click 'Submit Application'. Your application will be assigned a reference number. You will receive an acknowledgement email with the reference number.
12. Wait for DGFT verification and approval — DGFT will verify your application and supporting documents. This typically takes 3-5 working days. You can check status on the portal using your reference number.
13. Receive IEC approval notification — Once approved, DGFT will send an approval email with your unique 10-digit IEC number. You can also download the IEC certificate from the portal.

Related reading

• Import Export Code (IEC) Registration on the DGFT Portal (2026)
• Rent Agreement in India 2026 — Format, Stamp Duty, Registration & Key Clauses
• Documents Required for GST Registration in India (2026 Checklist)