IE Code stands for Import Export Code. It is required for any person importing or exporting goods and services to or from India.

Why is IE Code required?

All importers must mention their IE Code while clearing customs when their goods arrive in India. All exporters must mention their IE Code while exporting their goods from India. Additionally, now RBI requests person importing or exporting services to also mention IE Code in foreign remittances in bank account. Therefore, IE Code is required for anyone involved in import or export in India.

Is there a tax levied based on IE Code?

No. IE Code is not a tax registration. So no tax is levied based on IE Code during import or export of goods or services. However, customs duty maybe levied.

Who must obtain IE Code registration?

Any person who proposes to import or export goods and services from or to India must obtain IE Code.

Can individuals obtain IE Code?

Yes, individuals acting as Proprietors of a business can obtain IE Code Registration.

What are the documents required for IE Code registration?

To obtain IE Code registration, a copy of PAN Card, proof of address of business and constitution of the business [Partnership deed, Incorporation Certificate, etc.,] and a letter from the banker is required.

How long does it take to obtain IE Code registration?

IE Code Registration can be obtained from the DGFT in 10-15 working days after submission of all required documents and application.

What is the penalty for not having IE Code?

IE Code is not a mandatory registration, only importers and exporters of goods or services must have IE Code. Therefore, there is no penalty for not having IE Code; however, import / export will not be possible without an IE Code.

Do I have to file any returns for IE Code?

No. Returns need NOT be filed for IE Code.

How long is the IE Code valid for?

IE Code is valid for life-time of the entity and renewal is also not necessary.

Importer Exporter Code India

IEC Full Form, Eligibility, Validity, Documents Required

Import Export (IE) Code India is a registration of an import and export companies with Indian Custom department that import and export commodities from India. IE Code is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industries, Government of India. 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.

Validity of IE Code

IE Code registration is permanent registration which is valid for a lifetime. Hence, there will be no hassles for updating, filing and renewal of IE Code registration. It is valid until the business exists or the registration is revoked or surrendered. Further, unlike tax registrations like GST registration or PF registration, the importer or exporter does not require to file any filings or follow any other compliance requirement like annual filing.

As IE code registration is one-time and requires no additional compliance, it is recommended for all companies and LLPs to obtain IE code after incorporation.

IE Code Exemption

An Import Export Code is required for import of any type of goods by a business. However, the following category of persons are exempted from obtaining an IE Code:

Importer and export by central Government or agencies or undertakings for defence purpose or other specified lists under Foreign Trade (exemption from the application of Rules in certain cases) Order, 1993.
Import or Export of Goods for personal use.

Proprietorship	Digital Photograph (3x3cms) of the Proprietor. Copy of PAN card of the Proprietor. Copy of Passport (first & last page)/Voter’s I-Card/ Driving Licence/UID (Aadhar card) (any one of these). Sale deed in case business premise is self-owned; or Rental/Lease Agreement, in case office is rented/ leased; or latest electricity /telephone bill. Bank Certificate as per ANF 2A(I)/ Cancelled Cheque bearing preprinted name of applicant and A/C No.
Partnership firm	Digital Photograph (3x3cms) of the Managing Partner. Copy of PAN card of the applicant entity. Copy of Passport (first & last page)/Voter’s I-Card /UID (Aadhar Card) /Driving Licence/PAN (any one of these) of the Managing Partner signing the application. Copy of Partnership Deed. Sale deed in case business premise is self-owned; or Rental/Lease Agreement, in case office is rented/ leased; or latest electricity /telephone bill. Bank Certificate as per ANF 2A (I)/Cancelled Cheque bearing preprinted name of the applicant entity and A/C No.
LLP or Private Limited Company or Section 8 Company	Digital Photograph (3x3cms) of the Designated Partner/Director of the Company signing the application. Copy of PAN card of the applicant entity. Copy of Passport (first & last page)/Voter’s I-Card /UID (Aadhar Card) /Driving Licence/ PAN (any one of these) of the Managing Partner/Director signing the application. Certificate of incorporation as issued by the RoC Sale deed in case business premise is self-owned; or Rental/Lease Agreement, in case office is rented/ leased; or latest electricity or telephone bill. Bank Certificate as per ANF 2 A(I)/Cancelled Cheque bearing preprinted name of the company and A/C No.
Society or Trust	Digital Photograph (3x3cms) of the signatory applicant/Secretary or Chief Executive. Copy of PAN card of the applicant entity. Copy of Passport (first & last page)/Voter’s I-Card /UID (Aadhar Card) /Driving Licence/ PAN (any one of these) of the Secretary or Chief Executive/ Managing Trustee signing the application. Sale deed in case business premise is self-owned; or Rental/Lease Agreement, in case office is rented/ leased; or latest electricity /telephone bill. Registration Certificate of the Society / Copy of the Trust Deed Bank Certificate as per ANF 2A(I)/Cancelled Cheque bearing preprinted name of the Registered Society or Trust and A/C No.
HUF	Digital Photograph (3x3cms) of the Karta. Copy of PAN card of the Karta. Copy of Passport (first & last page)/Voter’s I-Card/ UID (Aadhar card)/ Driving Licence (any one of these) of the Karta. Sale deed in case business premise is self-owned or Rental/Lease Agreement, in case office is rented/ leased or latest electricity /telephone bill. Bank Certificate as per ANF 2A(I)/ Cancelled Cheque bearing preprinted name of applicant and A/C No.