IEC Code Import Guide

When This Applies

An IEC (Importer Exporter Code) is the first document every Indian business needs before importing or exporting anything. Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), it is a 10-digit permanent number linked to your PAN.

Documents Needed

• PAN card of the business entity or proprietor
• Aadhaar card of the applicant
• Bank account details and cancelled cheque
• Address proof (rent agreement, utility bill, or property document)
• Digital photograph of the applicant
• Active mobile number and email for OTP verification

Common Mistakes

• Applying with an inactive PAN or mismatched PAN details
• Using a savings account instead of a current account — DGFT prefers current accounts for business entities
• Not updating IEC when business details change — inactive IEC can block customs clearance
• Assuming GST replaces IEC — they are separate and both are mandatory
• Entering incorrect bank IFSC or account number, causing verification failure

Estimated Timeline and Process

Online application (same day): Apply at dgft.gov.in with PAN authentication and document upload.

Fee payment (₹500): Pay online through the DGFT portal.

Issuance (2–3 working days): IEC is auto-generated after document verification. No physical visit is required.

Valid for lifetime: IEC does not expire but must be updated annually through the DGFT portal.

How Sea Air Cargo Systems Can Help

We offer free IEC guidance for first-time importers. Our team helps you gather documents, navigate the DGFT portal, and link your IEC to your bank's AD Code for duty payments. Read our first-time importer guide for the full workflow.

Pre-Application Checklist

• Confirm you have a valid PAN card — IEC is linked to your PAN
• Decide whether to apply as a proprietorship, partnership, LLP, or company
• Prepare a cancelled cheque or bank certificate showing your business account
• Gather address proof for the business premises (rent agreement, utility bill, or ownership document)
• Decide on a digital signature certificate (DSC) if applying through a consultant

Documents Required for IEC Application

• PAN card of the applicant entity
• Photograph of the applicant (proprietor, director, or partner)
• Cancelled cheque or bank certificate
• Address proof of the business
• Digital signature (recommended for faster processing)

Cost Factors to Plan For

The DGFT IEC application fee is ₹500. If you use a consultant, expect to pay ₹2,000–₹5,000 for document preparation and filing. DSC costs ₹1,500–₹3,000. The entire process typically takes 3–7 working days if documents are correct. Use our First-Time Importer Guide for the complete onboarding process.

Common Delays and How to Avoid Them

• PAN name mismatch — the IEC name must match PAN exactly
• Invalid address proof — DGFT requires current, verifiable business address documents
• Bank account not in the applicant's name — the account must belong to the business entity
• Incorrect activity code — select the NIC code that best describes your primary import activity

When to Contact a CHA

A CHA can guide you through IEC application, help you link your AD Code to ICEGATE, and ensure your first shipment is compliant. Contact Sea Air Cargo Systems for first-time importer support.

Frequently Asked Questions