The Import Export Code (IEC) is a unique 10-digit code allotted by the Director General of Foreign Trade under Section 7 of the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992. It is mandatory for all entities that want to import or export goods in India. The IEC is now PAN-based and has an alphanumeric format instead of a 10-digit numeric format.
After the introduction of GST, business entities that require an IEC need to file an application online with DGFT. Upon approval and registration, the PAN number of the entity will be recorded as the IEC code. An IEC number allotted to an applicant shall be valid for all its branches/divisions/units/factories and is valid for life.
With the introduction of GST, importers/exporters need to declare only the GSTIN at the time of import and export of goods. The PAN of an entity will be used for the purpose of IEC, and it will be alpha-numeric and the same as the PAN of the entity. For new applicants, the application for IEC will be made to DGFT, and the applicant’s PAN will be authorized as IEC. For residuary categories under Para 2.07 of HBP 2015-20, the IEC will be either UIN issued by GSTN and authorized by DGFT or any common number to be notified by DGFT.
For existing IEC holders, their PAN will become their IEC, and the DGFT system will undertake this migration, and the existing IEC holders are not required to undertake any additional exercise in this regard. IEC holders are required to quote their PAN (in place of the existing IEC) in all their future documentation, w.e.f. the notified date. The legacy data which is based on IEC would be converted into PAN based in due course of time.
For services exports, IEC shall be necessary as per the provisions in Chapter 3 only when the service provider is taking benefits under the FTP. The application process for IEC code is completely online, and IEC can be generated by the applicant as per the procedure detailed in the Handbook of Procedure.
Information and Documents required for applying IEC Code
Email and Mobile Number of the entity
PAN Card of the entity
Registered Address of the Entity
Statutory Document-MOA/AOA/Incorporation Certificate/Partnership Deed etc
Nature of Activity of the Entity
Entities Bank Name, Bank Account Number, Branch Name, IFSC Code
Owners/Promoters and Directors details viz Name, ID & Address Proof, PAN and Contact details
Branch Address (if any)
Sales Deed/Rental Agreement/Lease Agreement for the Entities Address along with Electricity Bill or Telephone Bill or Property Tax Paid Receipt
Bank Certi cate/ Pre-printed Cancelled Cheque
The lling fee of Import export code is Rs. 500. This fee to be deposit online while applying of Import Export Code (IEC).
Signed Application Form for IEC