Import Export (IE) Code is a 10 digit code that is required
for persons importing or exporting goods and services from or to India. So, an importer cannot
import without IE Code & an exporter cannot avail the benefits of various exporter friendly schemes
of DGFT, export promotion council & customs, without the IE Code. IE Code is issued by the
Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industries, Government of
India. IE Code is valid for all divisions/units/branches etc.
IE Code application must be made to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade along with the
necessary supporting documents. Once, the application is submitted, DGFT will issue the IE Code for
the entity in 15 - 20 working days or less. It is advisable to take the IE Code irrespective of no
requirement at the moment. In the following cases, the requirement of IE Code arises:
• For clearing shipments.
• When importer sends money abroad through the ban.
• When the exporter sends the shipment.
• When the exporter receives money into his bank account.
In the following cases, IE Code is not required:
• Traders registered under GST.
• Goods exported or imported for personal purposes.
• Government of India Departments & Ministries.
• Notified charitable institutions.
LIFETIME VALIDITY | IE Code is issued for the lifetime of the entity and requires no renewal. So once an IE Code is obtained, it can be used by that entity for all its import or export transactions without any further hassles. |
BENEFITS UNDER VARIOUS SCHEMES | The Holder of IE Code can take benefit of various schemes like SEIS, MEIS, etc. & benefits from DGFT, customs & export promotion council. |
NOT NECESSARY BUSINESS ENTITY | DGFT does not specify any requirement that only a business entity can take IE Code. Rather Proprietors can also take IE Code in their name. |
NO COMPLIANCES | IE Code does not require the filing of any return. Once, an IE Code is issued there are no further procedures required to maintain the validity of the IE Code. Even if import or export transactions occur, there are no filings required to DGFT. |
EASIER PROCESSING | It is easier to obtain IE code from DGFT within 10-15 days after the submission of application. It is not required to show proof of any import or export to get IE code. |
EXPAND BUSINESS | IEC helps you to take your product or services to the international market and expand your businesses. |
FACILITATES IMPORT AND EXPORT | Whether you’re an importer or exporter, it is necessary to have an IE code for all the transactions. Banks also require IE code to process money against the transaction. |
LEGAL PROTECTION | Once the IEC number gets generated the owner has the legal protection from getting penalized and other consequences |
NATIONAL VALIDITY | The IEC, once issued, is valid throughout the county, in all your branches or factories. It needs to be quoted while your goods go through customs and while sending money abroad or receiving money from abroad. |
1. Passport size photograph
2. Copy of PAN Card
3. Identity Proof (Election ID / Adhaar Card / Passport / Driving License)
4. Sale Deed (in case of the business premise is self-owned)
5. Certificate of Incorporation (in case of Company)
6. Rental/Lease Agreement (In case of rented/leased)
7. Bank Certificate (in case the canceled cheque is not available)
8. Copy of Partnership deed (In case of Partnership)
9. Board Resolution/self-declaration (In case of Company)
10. List of partners or directors in case of partnership firm/Limited Liability Partnership firm or Company respectively along with their residential address, ID proof, passport size photograph, and PAN card.
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