Visit the DGFT Website: Access the official website of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) of India. The website address is https://dgft.gov.in/.

Register on the DGFT Portal: If you are a new user, you need to register on the DGFT portal by creating a user account. Provide the required details, such as your name, email address, and contact information, to register.

Login to the DGFT Portal: Once registered, login to the DGFT portal using your user credentials (username and password).

Access the IEC Application Form: Navigate to the “Services” or “IEC” section on the DGFT portal to access the Import Export Code (IEC) application form.

Fill in the Application Form: Complete the IEC application form with accurate details about your business, including your company name, address, contact information, PAN (Permanent Account Number), bank account details, and other required information.

Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of the required documents, such as identity proof, address proof, PAN card, and bank certificate, as specified in the application form. Ensure that the documents are clear, legible, and in the prescribed format.

Submit the Application: Review the information entered in the application form and uploaded documents for accuracy and completeness. Once verified, submit the IEC application form through the DGFT portal.

Pay the Application Fee: Pay the applicable application fee for processing the IEC application. The fee can be paid online using various payment modes available on the DGFT portal, such as credit/debit card, net banking, or e-challan.

Application Processing: After submitting the application and payment of the fee, the DGFT will process your IEC application. The processing time may vary, but you can track the status of your application online through the DGFT portal.

Receive the IEC: Once your IEC application is approved, you will receive the Import Export Code (IEC) electronically via email or through the DGFT portal. You can also download the IEC certificate from the portal for your records.

Print and Preserve: Print a copy of the IEC certificate received from the DGFT and preserve it for future reference. The IEC certificate is proof of your registration and authorization to engage in import and export activities.

Identity Proof:

• PAN Card of the applicant (Proprietor/Partnership Firm/Company).
• Passport (in case of individual applicants).
• Aadhaar Card (in case of individual applicants).

Address Proof:

• Aadhaar Card.
• Voter ID Card.
• Passport.
• Driving License.
• Utility bills (electricity bill, telephone bill, water bill) not older than 2 months.
• Property tax receipt.
• Rent agreement (if the premises are rented).

Bank Certificate or Cancelled Cheque: A cancelled cheque or bank certificate containing details such as account holder’s name, account number, IFSC code, and branch address.

Letter of Authorization (if applicable): In case the application is submitted by an authorized signatory on behalf of the applicant, a letter of authorization from the applicant authorizing the signatory to submit the application is required.

Business Address Proof: Documents proving the address of the business premises, such as:

• Property tax receipt.
• Rent agreement.
• Sale deed.
• Lease deed.
• NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the landlord.

Incorporation Certificate (in case of companies): Certificate of incorporation issued by the Registrar of Companies (RoC) for companies or LLPs (Limited Liability Partnerships).

Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA): MOA and AOA of the company, if applicable.

Digital Photographs: Recent passport-size photographs of the applicant.

IEC Application Form: The completed IEC application form with all relevant details filled in accurately.

Individuals: Individual entrepreneurs or proprietors who wish to engage in import/export activities as a sole proprietorship.

Partnership Firms: Partnership firms comprising two or more individuals who jointly own and operate a business and wish to engage in import/export activities.

Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs): LLPs registered under the Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008, which intend to engage in import/export activities.

Private Limited Companies: Private limited companies registered under the Companies Act, 2013, that wish to engage in import/export activities.

Public Limited Companies: Public limited companies registered under the Companies Act, 2013, that wish to engage in import/export activities.

Registered Societies and Trusts: Registered societies and trusts that are authorized to engage in commercial activities and wish to engage in import/export activities.

Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs): HUFs that wish to engage in import/export activities as a family business entity.

Facilitates International Trade: An IEC serves as a mandatory requirement for businesses or individuals involved in importing or exporting goods and services from India. It facilitates and regulates international trade transactions by providing a unique identification number to businesses.

Legal Requirement: Obtaining an IEC is a legal requirement under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992. It ensures compliance with regulatory requirements governing international trade in India.

Customs Clearance: An IEC is necessary for customs clearance of goods at Indian ports and airports. It is used by customs authorities to track and monitor imports and exports, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Global Recognition: Having an IEC enhances the credibility and trustworthiness of businesses in the eyes of international suppliers, customers, and regulatory authorities. It signifies that the business is authorized and capable of engaging in cross-border transactions.

Access to Government Benefits: Businesses with a valid IEC are eligible to avail various benefits, incentives, and schemes offered by the government to promote exports and boost the economy. These benefits may include duty drawback, export incentives, and access to export promotion schemes.

Expansion of Business Opportunities: Having an IEC opens up new business opportunities for businesses, including access to global markets, engagement with international suppliers and customers, and participation in international trade fairs and exhibitions.

No Renewal Required: The IEC does not require renewal and remains valid for the lifetime of the entity or individual unless surrendered or revoked. This saves businesses from the hassle of renewing the license periodically.

No Compliance Requirement: Unlike other licenses or registrations, the IEC does not entail any compliance requirement, such as filing of returns or maintenance of records. Businesses can focus on their core activities without additional compliance burden.

Access to Foreign Exchange: An IEC enables businesses to access foreign exchange for payments related to international trade transactions, including imports, exports, and remittances.

Multiple Transactions: Once obtained, the IEC can be used for multiple transactions and does not limit the number of imports or exports. This provides flexibility and convenience to businesses engaged in international trade.