Under the IEC registration online process, any Indian business can apply for an Import Export Code directly on the DGFT portal. The government fee is only ₹500, which is paid through the Bharatkosh gateway. The application requires a PAN card, Aadhaar card, proof of address, and bank details. Applying in person leaves room for error, which is why many businesses prefer to have this process processed through a service like StartupIndiaOnline. After the application is submitted, DGFT typically issues an e-IEC certificate within 1 to 3 working days.

What is IEC registration?

Import Export Code, also known as IEC, is a 10-digit number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). DGFT operates under the Ministry of Commerce. Any individual or company wishing to import goods into India, or export goods and services from India, must first obtain this code. Without it, customs cannot clear goods, and banks cannot process foreign trade payments.

This code is now linked to the PAN, so a business can only obtain one IEC. However, obtaining a PAN does not automatically grant an IEC—a separate application is required on the DGFT website, and this is where StartupIndiaOnline helps.

Who needs an IEC code?

This registration is required for:

- Trading companies importing goods

- Exporters selling goods abroad

- Freelancers or IT consultants receiving payments from foreign clients

- E-commerce sellers selling on platforms like Amazon Global, Etsy, and Alibaba

- Dropshipping businesses sourcing goods from foreign suppliers

Government departments and imports and exports for personal use only (not business-related) are exempt from this rule. If you're unsure whether this rule applies to your business, it's a good idea to speak with our team.

Documents Required for IEC Registration

Having all the documents ready before starting the application process can save a lot of time. The following are required on the DGFT portal:

-Applicant's PAN card — whether it's an individual, proprietorship firm, LLP Company, company, trust, or HUF

-Aadhaar card — of the proprietor or authorized signatory, for signing with OTP

-Proof of business address — a recent electricity bill, rental agreement, or property tax receipt is accepted

-Bank certificate or cancelled check — clearly showing the account holder's name, bank name, and account number

-Recent passport-sized photo

Partnerships and companies must also attach their partnership deed or incorporation certificate. Our team verifies all your documents before you start applying on StartupIndiaOnline, eliminating the risk of rejection later.

IEC Registration Online Process — Step-by-Step

Step 1: Register on the DGFT Portal

Go to DGFT portal, open the "Services" tab, and select "IEC Profile Management." Sign up with your PAN, email address, and mobile number. You will receive an OTP on each, which will verify your identity.

Step 2: Login and Open the Application

After verification, set a password and log in. Select "Apply for IEC" on the dashboard, which will open 

Form ANF-2A —This is the actual application form.

Step 3: Fill in Business Information

Enter the business name, structure (proprietorship, partnership, LLP, or company), address, branches, if any, and the nature of the business.

Step 4: Add Bank Information

Enter the account number and IFSC code, exactly as they appear on the canceled check or bank certificate.

Step 5: Upload Documents

Attach scanned copies of your pre-prepared PAN, Aadhaar, address proof, bank proof, and photo.

Step 6: Pay the Application Fee

Pay ₹500 through the Bharatkosh payment gateway—via net banking, UPI, or debit/credit card.

Step 7: Sign and Submit

Sign the application using your Aadhaar OTP or Digital Signature Certificate, then submit.

Step 8: Download the e-IEC Certificate

After DGFT verification and approval, the certificate will be sent to your registered email address and can also be downloaded from the portal dashboard.

If this eight-step process seems too difficult to complete yourself due to time constraints, our team at StartupIndiaOnline handles the entire filing process from start to finish, and all you need to do is send the photos and documents.

IEC Registration Fees

• Government Application Fee:₹500 and One-time, non-refundable.
• Annual Profile Update: Free and Mandatory between April-June.
• StartupIndiaOnline Service Fee: Affordable package and Includes document verification, filing, and support.
• Correction/Change Fee: Nominal fee and Applicable for address or ownership change.

The ₹500 amount goes directly to the government and is reflected on the Bharatkosh receipt. Our service fee includes document verification, form filling, error prevention, and complete application tracking, so you don't have to visit the portal repeatedly.

In IEC Registration How long does it take?

Most applications are processed within 1 to 3 working days, provided all the information matches the documents. Rejections often occur when the PAN name doesn't match, the scan is blurred, or the bank account number is incorrect. Our team at StartupIndiaOnline double-checks every detail before submission, increasing the chances of getting the application approved the first time.

Is the IEC valid for life?

Yes. Once issued, this code never expires, and there are no renewal fees. However, as of 2021, DGFT regulations require every holder to confirm or update their profile once a year, between April 1st and June 30th. Missing this window temporarily deactivates the code. Our team also reminds our clients before this deadline to ensure shipments are never delayed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

- Entering a business name that doesn't match the PAN card

- Uploading a blurred or torn scanned copy of the address proof

- Incorrect bank details on a canceled check

- Forgetting the annual update, causing the code to be lost mid-shipment

- Applying with a personal PAN when the entity is different

These mistakes are why most people rely on a specialized service instead of applying themselves.

Why Get IEC Registration from StartupIndiaOnline?

- Our team handles the entire process, from document verification to certificate receipt

- The scope for application errors is virtually eliminated

- Annual update deadline reminders are also included

- Direct support via phone and WhatsApp, without long waits

Summary

Applying for an IEC code online isn't as difficult as it seems; the documents must be correct. The IEC registration online process is conducted entirely through the DGFT portal. The fee is only ₹500, and it's usually completed within a few working days. Whether you do it yourself or have someone familiar do it, it's crucial to have your PAN, Aadhaar, address proof, and bank certificates ready. If you want your IEC code without any hassle, contact the StartupIndiaOnline team today and begin your application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the government fee for IEC registration?

The fee is only ₹500, which is paid online through the Bharatkosh gateway on the DGFT portal.

Q2. How long does it take to receive an IEC certificate?

Most applicants receive their e-IEC certificate within 1 to 3 working days of submitting their application.

Q3. Does IEC need to be renewed every year?

No renewal is required, but every holder must confirm their profile on the DGFT portal between April and June.

Q4. Can freelancers also apply for an IEC code?

Yes, freelancers earning in foreign currency, such as those involved in consulting or software work, often require an IEC.

Q5. What are the benefits of getting an IEC from StartupIndiaOnline?

Our team handles the entire process from document verification to filing, reducing the risk of rejection and saving you time.

Q6. Is Aadhaar mandatory for IEC registration?

Yes, Aadhaar is used for e-signing with OTP verification when submitting the application.