IEC Registration
The Import-Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). It is mandatory for any business that imports goods, exports goods, or — for many service categories — exports services.
What this filing does
The Import-Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). It is mandatory for any business that imports goods, exports goods, or — for many service categories — exports services. Without it, banks won't release foreign exchange and customs won't clear shipments.
We file the online application on the DGFT portal, complete the digital signature step, and the IEC is typically issued within 3-5 working days.
Common reasons founders file this
- You are about to send your first export invoice abroad.
- You are placing your first import order from a foreign supplier.
- Your bank has asked for an IEC before crediting an inward remittance from a foreign client.
- You're claiming export benefits like LUT, RoDTEP, or duty drawback.
Documents we will need
Most of these you can scan or photograph from your phone. We list everything in your engagement letter so nothing is collected later as a surprise.
- PAN of the entity.
- Authorised signatory's PAN, Aadhaar, and photo.
- Address proof for the registered office (utility bill / lease / property document).
- Cancelled cheque or bank certificate from the bank account in the entity's name.
- Class-3 DSC of the authorised signatory (we can arrange this if needed).
Stage by stage
- 01.
Briefing & engagement
Day 1You share the entity's PAN and bank details. Engagement letter and checklist follow same day.
- 02.
Application filed on DGFT portal
Day 2We complete and submit the IEC application form, attach the supporting documents, and sign with the authorised signatory's DSC.
- 03.
DGFT processing
Day 3–5DGFT reviews and issues the IEC, usually within 3–5 working days. Any clarification raised is handled by us.
Our fee — from ₹2,500
Excludes the cost of a fresh DSC if the authorised signatory does not already have one (≈ ₹1,500).
What you receive
- 10-digit IEC.
- IEC certificate downloadable from DGFT portal.
- Reminder on the annual update requirement.
Frequently asked
Do I need an IEC to receive payments from foreign clients for software work?+
Software exports are technically covered, and most banks ask for an IEC before processing inward remittances coded as export of services. Even where banks accept Form 15CB / 15CA without an IEC, getting the IEC saves friction on every future remittance.
Does the IEC expire?+
It has lifetime validity, but it must be updated on the DGFT portal once a year — typically between April and June. Failure to update can lead to deactivation. We can handle the annual update as a small add-on.
Can a sole proprietor get an IEC?+
Yes — sole prop, partnership firm, LLP, Pvt Ltd, OPC are all eligible. The PAN of the entity (proprietor's personal PAN, for sole prop) is used.
What's the link between IEC and GST?+
GST registration must be in place before IEC for most categories. If you're starting from scratch and need both, we can bundle them into a single engagement.
Begin your iec registration.
The online form takes a few minutes. Save and resume anytime. No payment is taken until the full fee, including any pass-through items, has been shown alongside the engagement letter.