How to Apply for IEC Registration?

Overview 

IEC registration is the gateway to allow trading of business’ goods and services. This registration deals to identify the business importing goods and services abroad. IEC registration is necessary for the entities that deal with international trade. Applying for IEC registration is the requirement of every business who is willing to allow themselves to trade goods in the global market. With the help of this license, the user will be able to sell their goods and services abroad without staying non-complaint to legal standards and regulations for international trade. If you're a new applicant who is seeking to get a simple guide to accelerate international trade, then this blog is right for you. In this article, we will provide you complete insights on how to apply for IEC registration and the related documents to apply for proceeding the application. 

What is IEC Registration?

Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issues Import Export Code Certificate. IEC Certificate which is a 10-digit alphanumeric number that helps to identify business importing goods and services in the global market. This code is valid for the lifetime of the goods and services. This code is mandated under Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992 to obtain IEC registration and quote IEC for import export related business activities. 

Where Can I Get IEC Registration?

IEC Registration is applied via online mode and hence doesn’t require physical meeting with the person. As the registration is held electronically, you can get IEC registration via online mode through DGFT portal. This platform is not only bound to provide registration to newly incorporated companies but also permits authorisations required for international trade while following Foreign Trade Policy guidelines set by Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). 

Documents Required for IEC Registration

Here is the list of documents required for IEC registration according to the business structures, which are as follows:

How to apply for IEC Registration?

Here is the step-by-step procedure for applying IEC registration: 

Step 1: Visit the DGFT Portal

To apply for IEC registration you need to visit the DGFT portal. On this portal we register on the portal to create ID and Password. 

Step 2: Click ‘Apply on IEC’

After login into the above portal, you can click on the ‘Apply on IEC’ on the Dashboard. This portal is both for the new user and existing user that helps them to get the IEC number. You can also navigate this tab using Menu “My Dashboard” → ‘Importer Exporter Code (IEC)’→’Apply for IEC’. 

Step 3: Click on Start New Application

After selecting Apply for IEC, further you can start a new Application button or Click on the ‘Proceed with Existing Application’ button if any user has put the application in draft to add further details. This fresh application will be new users or new businesses who are willing to initiate their goods trading. 

Step 4: Fill the Required Fields 

You have now to fill the mandatory fields on the form which is marked by Red Asterisk. This application can only be drafted if the Basic Details and Firm Information is only filled. This application will automatically undergo a Draft Section. 

Step 5: Click on Declaration Form

By filing your information and keeping on proceeding the application clicking save and Next, you can get the Declaration Form. On accepting the Declarations, you are accepting DGFTs terms and conditions. This terms and condition by clicking on the checkbox and entering the place. 

Step 6: Proceed to Submit Aadhar Link or Digital Signature Certificate 

On checking the Application Summary, you can click on the Sign button to sign the application using Aadhar e-Sign or Digital Signature Certificate (DSC). 

Step 7: Pay the Application Fee and Now Print the Application Form 

On confirming the application of the user and proceeding to make payment against the application, you can get the successful application form. On successful payment against the application fee, the user is redirected to DGFT website and the receipt shall be displayed like this. 

Conclusion 

If you’re running a business and willing to grow ahead at an international level, you can apply for an IEC certificate. Other than that, you can also get the complete guidance on how you can proceed with the application. Application for IEC certificate might be difficult for new users and the chances of making mistakes increased. Therefore, it is often necessary to get the IEC registration under the supervision of professional expert. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Is IEC required for goods only?

No, the IEC registration requirement is not bound to goods only but it is for both goods and services.

2. Is IEC required if I’ve GST?

Even if you’ve GST registration, you are required to get the IEC registration for trading of goods and services. 

3. Is there any separate code for import export code?

No, there is no separate code for import and export under IEC registration. 

4. Is the Government exempt from applying for IEC registration? 

Yes, the government is exempted from applying for IEC registration.