Get your 10-digit DGFT Import Export Code quickly, easily, and stress-free with ChennaiAccounts experts.
Proven experience in helping exporters, importers, startups, and SMEs get their IEC code and start trading globally.
The Import Export Code (IEC) is a unique 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Government of India. It is mandatory for anyone who wants to start an import or export business in India.
Whether you are a company, partnership firm, or an individual entrepreneur, obtaining an IEC is the first step to legally importing or exporting goods and services across international borders.
Once obtained, the IEC is valid for a lifetime — there is no traditional renewal, but annual validation on the DGFT portal is required to keep it active.
Linked to your PAN — one PAN corresponds to one IEC, making it easy for DGFT and Customs to identify your business in all international trade activities.
A unique 10-digit number issued by DGFT, linked to your PAN, used for all international trade activities
IEC is valid for a lifetime. No renewal required — only annual validation on the DGFT portal between April and June
Low government fee of ₹500 payable online. Professional service fees may apply for expert-assisted registration
Obtaining an IEC code opens doors to global markets and provides significant legal and financial advantages for your business.
No individual or business can import or export goods or services without a valid IEC issued by DGFT — it is the legal foundation of all international trade in India
Customs authorities require the IEC to clear imported or exported goods. Without it, shipments can be held, delayed, or confiscated at the port
Banks demand IEC while processing international payments to or from foreign clients or suppliers. Essential for receiving foreign currency legally
Exporters can claim various incentives, tax exemptions, and schemes under the Foreign Trade Policy such as RoDTEP, RoSCTL, and MEIS using their IEC
IEC enables Indian businesses to trade internationally, expand their customer base, and establish global credibility with partners, suppliers, and e-commerce platforms
If you sell products or services abroad via platforms like Amazon Global, eBay, or Etsy, you need an IEC to receive payments legally and ship internationally
An IEC enhances business credibility in the international market and helps attract global partners or investors. It signals that your business is officially registered for cross-border trade
The Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT is valid for a lifetime and does not require renewal in the traditional sense. However, as per the latest DGFT guidelines, every IEC holder must validate and update their IEC details annually to keep it active. This process is often referred to as IEC Renewal or Annual Updation.
As per DGFT Notification No. 58/2015-2020, every IEC holder must confirm and update their IEC details once every financial year, between April and June. Even if no changes have occurred, you must log in and confirm that existing details are correct
If you fail to update or confirm your IEC within the specified period, your IEC code will be automatically deactivated by the DGFT system and you cannot carry out import or export transactions until reactivated. Reactivation requires re-filing with a ₹200 Government Fee — plus our professional service charge of ₹500 + GST
Usually, no fresh documents are needed unless there are changes. Keep PAN Card, Updated Address Proof (if changed), Bank Details / Cancelled Cheque (if changed), and DSC or Aadhaar e-sign handy. Processing is immediate upon online submission
April to June every financial year — mandatory even if no changes in business details
Immediate upon online submission — no waiting period for validation
₹500 + GST (service fee) + ₹200 Govt. Fee applies for reactivating a deactivated IEC
Timely validation ensures uninterrupted import/export operations and access to all DGFT schemes
Choosing the right partner for IEC registration makes all the difference — ChennaiAccounts ensures your process is smooth, accurate, and stress-free.
Join 700+ businesses that trusted ChennaiAccounts for their IEC registration. Get expert guidance, fast DGFT approval, and complete compliance support.
