If you plan to export from India — or import for resale — an Import Export Code (IEC) is the first registration you need, and shipments cannot legally clear customs without one.
What Is an IEC?
The IEC is a 10-digit code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) tied to your business PAN. It has no expiry once issued, but DGFT requires an annual online confirmation between April and June even if no changes are made — missing this window can deactivate the code.
Who Needs One
Any business or individual proprietor engaging in cross-border trade of goods or services needs an IEC, with narrow exemptions for personal-use imports and specific government departments. Most first-time exporters are surprised to learn there is no minimum turnover threshold — a single export shipment still requires it.
Documents You Will Need
PAN of the business or proprietor, a cancelled cheque or bank certificate for the current account, proof of business address, and a digital signature or Aadhaar-based e-sign for the application.
How Long It Takes
When documentation is complete and consistent, IEC issuance through DGFT typically takes a few working days. Most delays come from mismatches between the business name or address on the PAN, bank documents and business registration — worth double-checking before filing rather than after a rejection.
After the IEC: What Comes Next
An IEC alone does not cover every requirement. Depending on your product category, you may also need an AD Code registered with your bank for customs clearance, and category-specific registrations such as RCMC, APEDA or FSSAI.