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IEC code (import export license): fee, documents and steps
Apply for an IEC code (Importer Exporter Code) on the DGFT portal: official fee ₹500, documents, steps, validity and how to update it. Needed to export from or import into India.
Official sources checked: 2 Oct 2026
What it is
The Importer Exporter Code, called the IEC, is a 10-digit code that DGFT issues against your PAN. It is the basic import export license number for a business. Customs asks for it to clear goods, banks ask for it when you send or receive foreign currency for trade, and DGFT schemes are linked to it.
The IEC has permanent validity. It stays with you until DGFT suspends or cancels it, and one code covers all your branches, units and factories. Only one IEC is given against one PAN.
Who needs it
Anyone who imports or exports goods or services: proprietors, partnerships, LLPs, companies, trusts and HUFs. A few cases, such as personal use, are exempt. The exemptions are listed in paragraph 2.07 of DGFT's Handbook of Procedures.
Official fees
| Fee | Official amount |
|---|---|
| New IEC, application fee | ₹500Checked on official page SourceItem 1 of DGFT's scale of application fees. DGFT's practical guide says the fee is payable with applicable taxes, so check the final amount at payment. |
| Annual updation of IEC in April to June | NilChecked on official page SourceListed in the same scale of fees. |
| Changes to IEC details (address, bank, constitution) | See DGFT portalTo confirm SourceThe fee for each type of change is not shown in the pages we checked. Details must be updated within 30 days of the change. |
Fees and rules change and can differ between offices. Confirm the fee on the official portal before you pay. Amounts marked To confirm could not be checked on an official page.
Documents to keep ready
- PAN of the firm or company (DGFT checks it against Income Tax records)
- Proof of establishment: incorporation certificate, partnership deed, society registration, trust deed or HUF details, as it applies to you
- Proof of address: sale deed, rent or lease agreement, electricity or phone bill, MoU or partnership deed. A proprietor can use Aadhaar, passport or voter ID
- No objection letter from the owner of the premises, if the address proof is not in the firm's name
- Bank proof: a cancelled cheque with the firm's name pre-printed, or a bank certificate
- A digital signature token or Aadhaar e-sign of a member of the firm
- Mobile number and email ID for OTPs
- Files must be PDF and not more than 5 MB each
Steps to apply
- Register on the DGFT portal as an Importer or Exporter. dgft.gov.in
- Open your dashboard, choose IEC and select Apply for IEC.
- Fill in the PAN details, address, bank account and partner or director details. Upload the documents.
- Pay the application fee online through the payment gateway. Fee: ₹500
- Sign the application with your digital signature token or Aadhaar e-sign.
- Download your e-IEC from the dashboard. DGFT also informs you by email and SMS.
Where to apply
- DGFT portal: Apply, update and download the IEC
Govt License is not a government website. We never take government fees or apply for you.
Keep your IEC up to date
If your constitution, name, address or bank details change, update the IEC on the DGFT portal within 30 days. DGFT's fee scale also lists an annual updation window in April to June. Your IEC can be deactivated if details are not kept current, so diarise it every April.
What comes after the IEC
The IEC alone does not allow you to ship. Most exporters also need an AD code at the port, an RCMC from the council for their product, and GST registration with an LUT. Importers may need product approvals such as FSSAI, BIS or CDSCO.