The quick answer
An Importer Exporter Code identifies an entity for relevant import/export activity under DGFT’s framework. Applicability and exemptions depend on the activity and current policy. An IEC alone does not authorise every restricted product or satisfy destination requirements.
Use the official DGFT portal and its current IEC user manual. Check the live application fields, document requirements, authentication and fee before submission; do not rely on a third-party page’s old screenshots.
Before you begin
- Entity PAN and consistent legal-business details.
- Address and bank evidence required by the current DGFT process.
- Access to the official account and applicable authentication method.
See how the pieces connect
Prepare
Confirm applicability and gather evidence.
Apply
Complete the current DGFT IEC form.
Verify
Review details and authenticate submission.
Retain
Keep the result and maintain required updates.
Work through the steps
Confirm applicability
Review the current foreign trade framework and exemptions with a qualified adviser where necessary. Check whether the entity already has an IEC. Do not create duplicate applications under inconsistent names.
Register or sign in officially
Open DGFT through its official domain and follow the account-registration or login process. Use contacts controlled by the business. Do not share passwords or OTPs with an unverified intermediary.
Start the IEC application
Use the portal’s Importer Exporter Code application service. Enter entity and PAN-linked information, business activity, addresses and relevant persons as required by the live form. Keep the legal name consistent with supporting records.
Complete bank and document details
Provide the currently required bank and address evidence. Check readable uploads, account details and name consistency. Correct a mismatch before paying or submitting rather than hoping it will be ignored.
Review and submit
Preview every section, use the applicable authentication method and pay the fee shown by the official process. Retain acknowledgement and payment references. Track a pending application through the supported portal workflow.
Retain and maintain the IEC
Download issued evidence after successful processing and verify the entity details. Follow current periodic confirmation/update requirements and keep contact details current. Check product-specific authorisations and shipment requirements separately.
A worked example
An application record should be traceable
Illustrative evidence checklist; confirm current portal requirements.
| Stage | Evidence to retain |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Consistent entity, address and bank details |
| Submission | Application reference and payment evidence |
| Issue | IEC evidence and verified details |
| Maintenance | Required confirmations and updates |
An application acknowledgement is different from an issued IEC. Verify the outcome and any further requirements before arranging a shipment.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using a lookalike portal or unverified agent.
- Submitting mismatched PAN, name or bank details.
- Treating IEC as approval for every product.
- Ignoring ongoing update or confirmation requirements.
Questions you might have
Is there one permanent fee and document list?
Use the current official DGFT process and manual; fees and portal requirements can change.
Can Dukanam issue an IEC?
No. Complete the official DGFT process. Dukanam supports everyday business records and does not issue government registrations.
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Sources and further reading
Official rules and portal screens can change. Use the linked authority for the current requirements; the figures in our worked examples are illustrative.