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Import Export Code

Importer Exporter Code (IEC) Registration

To import or export goods in India, businesses must obtain an Import & Export Code (IEC), a unique ten-digit number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). IEC registration is mandatory for any business involved in international trade, and it requires GST registration as well. Without both GST and IEC registration, goods can be held at the port, incurring demurrage charges or even facing destruction.

Importance of Import Export Code

  • International market unlocks: The Import & Export Code (IEC) is essential for Indian businesses to enter global markets, enabling smooth international trade and opportunities for expansion.

  • Online IEC registration: The process to find the IE Code is entirely online and hassle-free with short document submission.

  • Less document requirement: It is not required to submit many documents to obtain an IEC.

  • Lifetime Validity: The Import & Export Code (IEC) is a lifetime registration valid for the duration of the business, with no need for renewal, unless revoked or surrendered.

  • Reduces illegal goods transportation: Obtaining an Import-Export Code (IEC) requires providing authentic information, ensuring that the transportation of illegal goods is prevented.

  • Availing Several Benefits: IEC code registration offers numerous benefits, including subsidies from Customs and Export Promotion Councils, tax-free exports through LUT filing under GST, and tax refund claims for paid exports.

  • Compliances: Unlike other tax registration, the person carrying import or export does not require to fulfill any specific compliance requirements such as the annual filing or the return filings.

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Validity of IEC Code

As mentioned above, IEC Code registration is permanent and valid for a lifetime. Hence, there will be no hassles with updating, filing, and renewing the IEC registration. It is valid till the business exists or the registration is not revoked or surrendered. Further, unlike tax registrations like GST registration or PF registration, the importer or exporter does not require to file any filings or follow any other compliance requirements like annual filing.
As IE code registration is one-time and requires no additional compliance, it is recommended for all exporters & importers to obtain IE code after incorporation.

Nature of the Firm obtaining an IEC

The nature of the Firm obtaining an Import export license/registration may be any of the follows:

  • Proprietorship Firm

  • Partnership Firm

  • Limited Liability Partnership

  • Limited Company

  • Trust

  • Hindu Undivided Family (HUF)

  • Society

Pre-Requisites for Applying for Import Export Code Registration

  • Valid Login Credentials to DGFT Portal (After Registering on DGFT Portal)

  • IEC may be applied on behalf of a firm which may be a Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, Limited Company, Trust, HUF, and Society.

  • The Firm must have an active Firm's Permanent Account Number (PAN) and details like Name as per Pan, Date of Birth, or Incorporation.

  • The Firm must also have a bank account in the Name of the Firm and a valid address before applying.

Note: These details will be validated with the Income Tax Department site.

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Documents required for IEC Code registration

The list of scanned documents required for IEC Registration and obtaining an IEC certificate is listed as follows:

  • Proof of establishment
  • Proof of Address
  • Other acceptable(for proprietorship only)
  • Note:

The following type of Firm needs to submit the registration certificate:

  • Partnership
  • Registered Society
  • Trust
  • HUF
  • Other

Proof of Address can be any one of the following documents:

  • Sale Deed
  • Rent agreement
  • Lease deed
  • Electricity bill
  • Telephone landline bill
  • Mobile, post-paid bill
  • MoU
  • Partnership deed

Other acceptable documents (for proprietorship only):

  • Aadhar card
  • Passport
  • Voter id

In case the address proof is not in the Name of the applicant firm, a no objection certificate (NOC) by the firm premises owner in favor of the Firm, along with the address proof, is to be submitted as a single PDF document.

  • Proof of Firm's Bank Account
  • Canceled Cheque
  • Bank Certificate
  • User should have an active DSC or Aadhaar of the Firm's member for submission.
  • Active Firm's Bank accounts for entering its details in the Application and making online payment of the application fee.
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Streamline Your IEC Application

KJSR Filings can assist you in obtaining an Importer Exporter Code (IEC) in India. Here's how we can help:

Information and Guidance

We can provide you with detailed information about the Import export code application process, including the eligibility criteria and the documents required.

Application Preparation

We can assist in preparing the necessary documentation, including the application form and supporting documents.

Application Submission

We can submit your IEC application to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) on your behalf, ensuring that it is done correctly and promptly.

Follow-up and Tracking

We can track the progress of your application and follow up with the authorities, helping you navigate any potential roadblocks or delays.

IEC Certificate Delivery

Once your IEC is approved, can help you obtain and deliver your IEC certificate to you.

Expert Consultation

If you have any queries or concerns regarding IEC or international trade, ' experts can provide you with professional guidance.