Import Export Code

🔹 What is Import Export Code (IEC)?

The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit unique identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India.

It acts as the primary license for businesses or individuals involved in import or export of goods and services. No importer/exporter can carry out trade across borders without this code.

👉 Whether you are importing goods from China, exporting software services to the US, or trading commodities in the Gulf, IEC is the first and most important requirement.

🔹 Why is IEC Mandatory?

• Customs Clearance – Shipments (imports/exports) will not be cleared without IEC.
• Bank Transactions – Banks require IEC to process foreign remittances.
• Government Schemes – Availing benefits under MEIS, SEIS, RoDTEP, etc. requires IEC.
• Compliance under FEMA – IEC ensures compliance with the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999.

⚠️ Without IEC: Import/export transactions may be blocked, and customs authorities may confiscate goods.

🔹 Benefits of IEC Registration with Nexgenca

✨ Mandatory license for global trade
✨ One-time registration – lifetime validity, no renewal
✨ Expands business globally – reach international markets
✨ Access to government incentives – duty drawback, subsidies, SEIS, RoDTEP
✨ Simple & Quick – completely online process
✨ Ease in foreign currency transactions – smooth inward & outward remittance

🔹 Who Needs IEC?

✔️ Importers of goods/services
✔️ Exporters of goods/services
✔️ Manufacturers selling products abroad
✔️ Traders sourcing raw materials from foreign countries
✔️ Service exporters (IT, consulting, digital marketing, etc.)
✔️ Freelancers receiving foreign income

📌 Even an individual who exports services (like IT freelancers) must obtain IEC.

🔹 Documents Required for IEC Registration

For Individuals/Proprietorship Firms

• PAN card of the proprietor
• Aadhaar card / Passport / Voter ID / Driving License
• Address proof of business (Electricity bill / Rent agreement)
• Cancelled cheque / Bank certificate
• Passport-size photo

For Partnership Firm/LLP/Company

• PAN card of firm/LLP/company
• Incorporation certificate / Partnership deed
• PAN & Aadhaar of partners/directors
• Bank certificate / Cancelled cheque
• Address proof of registered office
• Passport-size photo of applicant

🔹 IEC Registration Process with Nexgenca

Step 1: Preparation of Documents
Our experts at Nexgenca collect PAN, Aadhaar, Bank details, and business proof.

Step 2: Application Filing on DGFT Portal
We file the online application (Form ANF-2A) on the DGFT portal.

Step 3: Payment of Government Fee
Government fee is ₹500 (to DGFT). Nexgenca charges separately for professional support.

Step 4: Verification by DGFT
The DGFT verifies details with PAN and Aadhaar databases.

Step 5: IEC Certificate Issued
A 10-digit IEC certificate is issued electronically.

📌 Timeline: Normally 2–5 working days.

🔹 Step-by-Step IEC Registration (DGFT Portal Walkthrough)

1️⃣ Visit https://dgft.gov.in
2️⃣ Register on the portal using PAN (PAN acts as IEC).
3️⃣ Login and go to ‘IEC Profile Management’.
4️⃣ Click ‘Apply for IEC’.
5️⃣ Fill in details:

• Entity details (company/individual)
• PAN, Aadhaar, Bank details
• Registered office address
• Directors/Partners details
  6️⃣ Upload scanned documents (PAN, Aadhaar, Bank certificate, Address proof).
  7️⃣ Pay government fees online (₹500).
  8️⃣ Submit application and generate acknowledgement.
  9️⃣ DGFT verifies with CBDT and Aadhaar database.
  🔟 IEC issued in PDF format on registered email.

🔹 Validity of IEC

✅ Lifetime validity – No renewal required.
✅ Only updates required if there is change in:

• Business address
• Directors/Partners
• Company name/structure

🔹 Penalty for Not Having IEC

• Customs will not release goods without IEC.
• Foreign remittances may be blocked by banks.
• Loss of government incentives for exporters.
• Penalty under Customs Act & FEMA if trade is conducted without IEC.

🔹 Why Choose Nexgenca for IEC Registration?

✅ End-to-end online registration support
✅ IEC in 2–5 working days
✅ Expert guidance for export-import compliance
✅ Affordable and transparent pricing
✅ Assistance with DGFT updates & amendments
✅ Lifetime advisory for any changes in IEC