Starting an import or export business in India sounds exciting—until paperwork shows up. One of the first and most important steps is IEC Registration approval. Without it, customs will politely stop your goods at the border and your business plans right there.
The good news? IEC Registration is simpler than most people think. You just need the right documents, a clear process, and a bit of patience. Let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.
What Is IEC Registration Approval?
IEC stands for Import Export Code. It is a 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
If you want to:
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Import goods into India
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Export goods from India
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Receive foreign payments for services
You need IEC Registration approval. No IEC means no customs clearance and no foreign remittance. Simple as that.
Official source: DGFT (https://www.dgft.gov.in)
Who Needs IEC Registration Approval?
You need an Import Export Code if you fall under any of these categories:
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Proprietors
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Partnership firms
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LLPs
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Private limited companies
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Public limited companies
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Trusts and societies (for trade-related activities)
However, individuals importing or exporting goods for personal use only do not need IEC. The government still believes in souvenirs.
Benefits of IEC Registration Approval
IEC does more than tick a compliance box. It actually helps your business grow.
Key benefits include:
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Lifetime validity (no renewal required)
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Easy customs clearance
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Access to export incentives and schemes
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Smooth foreign currency transactions
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Increased credibility with international buyers
Once approved, your IEC Registration stays valid as long as your business exists. That’s rare in compliance. Enjoy it.
Documents Required for IEC Registration
DGFT keeps the document list refreshingly short. Here’s what you need:
Mandatory documents:
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PAN card of individual or business entity
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Aadhaar card (linked with mobile number)
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Passport-size photograph
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Cancelled cheque or bank certificate
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Active bank account details
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Valid email ID and mobile number
All details must match across documents. DGFT systems notice inconsistencies faster than humans do.
Step-by-Step Process to Get IEC Registration Approval
Let’s get practical. This is how IEC Registration approval actually happens.
Step 1: Visit the DGFT Portal
Go to the official DGFT website and log in using your PAN-based credentials.
Step 2: Fill the IEC Application (ANF-2A)
Enter your business details carefully. This includes:
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Business name
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Address
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Bank details
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Nature of business activity
Accuracy matters more than speed here.
Step 3: Upload Documents
Upload clear and readable copies of your documents. Blurry uploads delay approval. DGFT officers are humans, not mind readers.
Step 4: Pay the Government Fee
The IEC registration fee is ₹500, payable online. No hidden charges from the government side.
Step 5: Aadhaar-Based Verification
You will receive an OTP on your registered mobile number. Enter it to complete authentication.
Step 6: IEC Approval
Once verified, DGFT issues the Import Export Code digitally. You can download it from the portal.
In most cases, IEC Registration approval happens within 1–3 working days.
Common Reasons for IEC Application Rejection
Rejections do not happen often, but they do happen. Usually for avoidable reasons.
Common mistakes include:
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Mismatch between PAN and bank details
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Incorrect IFSC code
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Unlinked Aadhaar and mobile number
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Incomplete address details
Double-check everything before submission. Five extra minutes can save three extra days.
Is IEC Registration Mandatory Every Year?
No. IEC has lifetime validity.
However, DGFT requires you to update or confirm your IEC details annually through the portal. This process is called IEC updation, and it ensures your code remains active.
Skipping updates may lead to deactivation. DGFT loves updated records more than surprises.
How IEC Helps With Customs and Banking
Customs authorities use IEC to:
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Track imports and exports
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Verify exporter credentials
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Process shipping bills
Banks use IEC to:
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Allow foreign remittances
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Process export proceeds
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Ensure FEMA compliance
This makes IEC Registration approval essential for both logistics and payments.
Trusted source: Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)
Can You Modify IEC After Approval?
Yes. DGFT allows modification of IEC details online. You can update:
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Address
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Bank details
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Business activity
The process is straightforward and does not require reapplication. Flexibility is built into the system.
Final Thoughts: IEC Is Simple, Not Scary
IEC Registration approval is one of the most straightforward business registrations in India. The government designed it to encourage trade, not block it.
If you:
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Use correct documents
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Follow DGFT guidelines
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Avoid copy-paste errors
You will get your Import Export Code smoothly.
Think of IEC as your business passport. Without it, international trade stays a dream. With it, global markets become accessible—no visa required.