Import Export Code (IEC) and annual update

Compliance Pack

Import Export Code (IEC) and annual update

What this means, checked by a CA

An IEC is the 10-digit code (your PAN) that customs needs before you can import or export goods. We apply for it on the DGFT portal, then confirm or update it every April to June so it is never deactivated.

₹1,499

One time, then yearly update (April to June), + 18% GST

  • Delivered in 1 working day after documents (IEC is auto-generated on submission)
  • Due: Before the first commercial import or export; annual update every year between April and June

How we do it: IDFD

Every case runs through the same four steps: Information, Discussion, Forms, Deliverables. You see each one ticked as it happens.

InformationWhat we need from you · 7 items
  1. PAN of the entity

    IEC number is the PAN

  2. Cancelled cheque or bank certificate

    Mandatory upload under Para 2.08(c)

  3. Address proof of the entity

    Mandatory upload under Para 2.08(c)

  4. Constitution document, if not proprietorOptional

    Deed or incorporation certificate

  5. Class 3 DSC or Aadhaar e-sign

    Signs the application

  6. Mobile and email of signatory

    DGFT login, OTP and reminders

  7. Partners or directors details

    Part of the IEC profile

DiscussionWhat we discuss · 5 items
  1. Are you trading goods, or exporting only services or software?

    Services need IEC only for FTP benefits

  2. Does the PAN already have an IEC, perhaps from an earlier business?

    Only one IEC per PAN

  3. Has the PAN or constitution changed (merger, conversion to company or LLP)?

    New IEC within 30 days

  4. Which ports will you ship through, and which bank handles forex?

    AD code registration per port follows

  5. Was the IEC updated this April to June?

    Missed update means deactivation

FormsForms we file · 6 items
  1. Register on the DGFT portal and link the PAN

    Where: https://www.dgft.gov.in. Due: Before applying

  2. File ANF-2A online with entity, address, bank, partner or director details; upload bank proof and address proof

    Where: https://www.dgft.gov.in. Due: Before first shipment

  3. Sign with DSC or Aadhaar e-sign and pay

    Fee ₹500

    Where: https://www.dgft.gov.in. Due: Same session

  4. Download e-IEC; IEC is sent to customs (ICEGATE)

    Where: https://www.dgft.gov.in. Due: Same day

  5. Record changes in address, bank, constitution or partners online

    Where: https://www.dgft.gov.in. Due: Within 30 days of the change

  6. Annual update: confirm or update IEC details, even if nothing changed

    Fee nil for annual confirmation

    Where: https://www.dgft.gov.in. Due: Every year, 1 April to 30 June

DeliverablesWhat you get · 3 items
  1. e-IEC certificate

    When: Same day

  2. Annual update confirmation

    When: Same day

  3. Calendar reminder for next April to June

    When: With delivery

Questions people ask

  • Is IEC needed for software or service exports?

    Only if you claim FTP benefits or deal in specified services; otherwise not under Sec 7.

  • Do I need to renew IEC?

    No renewal; it is permanent, but must be updated or confirmed every April to June.

  • What if nothing changed this year?

    You must still submit an online confirmation.

  • What does IEC cost?

    ₹500 for issue; annual update is free.

  • My IEC was deactivated. Do I visit DGFT?

    No. Update online and it is reactivated automatically.

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