Get Your IEC Ready for International Trade.
An Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is required for most import and export activities in India, subject to applicable exemptions. The IEC is a 10-character alpha-numeric number and, under the current framework, is the same as the entity’s PAN and is separately issued by DGFT through the prescribed process.
GujaratCorp provides professional support for IEC application, incorporation-stage IEC assistance, profile updates, modifications and related DGFT requirements — with proper document review and application handling.
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What We Help With
End-to-end assistance for DGFT processes, MCA-linked filings, and ongoing compliance requirements to keep your international trade profile active.
01 — IEC APPLICABILITY REVIEW
We review whether IEC is required for your proposed import, export, service or technology activity, including applicable exemptions.
02 — NEW IEC APPLICATION
End-to-end assistance for preparing and submitting the IEC application through the applicable DGFT process.
03 — INCORPORATION IEC SUPPORT
For eligible new company incorporations, we assist with the MCA incorporation-stage IEC application through the SPICe+ linked filing workflow.
04 — DOCUMENT PREPARATION
Review and preparation of the required application details, address proof and bank proof before submission.
05 — DGFT FILING SUPPORT
Application preparation, portal submission and coordination through the DGFT process where a separate DGFT application is applicable.
06 — IEC MODIFICATION
Support for eligible changes in IEC profile details such as name, constitution, address, bank details and other applicable information.
07 — ANNUAL IEC UPDATION
IEC holders must update their IEC electronically every year (April–June). Even where there is no change, confirmation is required.
08 — IEC STATUS & PROFILE SUPPORT
Assistance with checking IEC details, profile information, status and applicable DGFT actions.
09 — DGFT COMPLIANCE SUPPORT
Support for IEC-related issues, profile updates, scrutiny-related requirements and other applicable DGFT processes.
Understanding the IEC Framework
IEC stands for Importer Exporter Code. It is a fundamental identification requirement for international trade in India.
- IEC is a 10-character alpha-numeric number.
- The IEC number is the same as the entity’s PAN.
- It is separately issued by DGFT through the prescribed application process.
- Only one IEC is issued against a single PAN.
- IEC has permanent validity unless suspended, cancelled or deactivated.
IEC is generally required for businesses importing goods into India, businesses exporting goods from India, and eligible entities engaged in international trade. It may also be required for service or technology exporters availing benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy.
DGFT prescribes specific bank proof requirements. The application requires a Cancelled Cheque bearing the entity’s pre-printed name OR a Bank Certificate in the prescribed format. A generic bank statement or unrelated bank document should not be treated as an automatic substitute.
The applicable government filing process may require digital authentication through Aadhaar-based e-Sign or DSC, depending on the applicant, filing route and applicable workflow. We review this requirement before submission to help avoid authentication-related issues.
Obtaining an IEC does not complete every requirement for international trade. Depending on the goods/services, you may also need GST compliance, Customs requirements, product-specific registrations/licences, Export Promotion Council / RCMC requirements, and specific country/product documentation.
Documents & Information Required
Exact requirements may vary depending on the applicant and nature of the application.
- Entity PAN / PAN details
- Applicant / entity details
- Registered or principal address details
- Address proof as applicable
- Cancelled cheque bearing pre-printed name OR prescribed Bank Certificate
- Bank account details
- Details of proprietor / partner / director / other authorised persons
- Applicable authentication / e-Sign / DSC requirements
Important: Government systems electronically validate bank-account information. Applicants should ensure that the PAN, entity name, and bank account details correctly match with bank records.
IEC Application — Current Process
We focus on getting the application details and supporting documents right before submission — not simply filling a form.
01 — SHARE YOUR DETAILS
Provide entity, PAN, address and other required information.
02 — DOCUMENT REVIEW
We review the required supporting documents, including bank and address proof.
03 — CHOOSE APPLICABLE ROUTE
For eligible new company incorporations, the IEC may be handled through the MCA workflow. Otherwise, it is handled via the DGFT process.
04 — PREPARE IEC APPLICATION
Application details are prepared as per the applicable MCA or DGFT process.
05 — SUBMISSION & PROCESSING
The application is submitted through the applicable route with required information, documents, and applicable fee.
06 — IEC AVAILABLE
Once successfully processed, the IEC can be viewed or downloaded through the applicable government system.
Annual Updation & Modification
IEC holders are required to update their IEC electronically every year during the April–June period. Even when there is no change in the details, the required online confirmation must be completed.
Failure to update within the prescribed period may result in deactivation of the IEC.
Profile details must be updated for changes in Name, Constitution, Address, Bank details, Branch locations, and Partner/Director info.
Certain changes, particularly PAN-related changes, are subject to specific DGFT procedures and should not be treated as an ordinary profile modification.
Why Choose GujaratCorp?
01 — Clear Guidance
We explain the applicable IEC route before starting the process.
02 — Document-Focused Process
Supporting documents are reviewed closely before submission.
03 — MCA & DGFT Support
We assist with applicable incorporation-stage IEC requirements as well as separate DGFT applications and updates.
04 — Compliance Beyond Registration
We help you understand additional registrations or compliances that may apply to your business.
05 — Professional Communication
Clear documentation, defined steps and transparent process handling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Under the current DGFT framework, the IEC number is the same as the entity’s PAN. However, IEC is separately issued by DGFT through the prescribed application process.
For eligible new company incorporations, IEC application may be available through the applicable MCA incorporation workflow and linked filing process. Where that route is not applicable, the IEC can be handled through the prescribed DGFT process.
No. IEC is generally required for import/export activities, subject to the exemptions provided under the applicable Foreign Trade Policy and Handbook of Procedures.
For export of services or technology, IEC is required where applicable for availing benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy.
IEC has permanent validity unless it is suspended, cancelled or deactivated under applicable provisions. Annual updation is required during the April–June period.
The IEC may be deactivated if the required annual updation is not completed within the prescribed period. Successful updation may reactivate the IEC, subject to applicable provisions.
Eligible IEC profile details can be updated through the applicable government process. Certain changes, including specific PAN-related changes, are governed by separate DGFT procedures.
DGFT prescribes a cancelled cheque bearing the entity’s pre-printed name or a prescribed Bank Certificate, along with other applicable information/documents.
No. IEC is an identification requirement for international trade. Certain restricted or regulated goods may require additional authorisations, licences or registrations.
Get Your IEC Requirements Reviewed
Talk to our experts before beginning your international trade process to ensure compliance.
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