All about obtaining Import Export Code IEC

Who has to obtain Import Export Code (IEC)?

IE Code is a unique 10 digit code issued by Direct General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Government of India. Those who import or export in India are mandatorily required to obtain IE Code. No person or entity shall make any import or export without IE code. However, certain categories of importers or exporters are exempt from obtaining IE Code.

Where to obtain IE Code?

An application for grant of IEC number shall be made by the Registered/Head Office of the applicant and applied at the nearest Regional Authority of Directorate General Foreign Trade, the Registered office and shall be accompanied by documents prescribed therein

Is an Individual importing goods for personal use required to obtain IE code?

No. Persons importing or exporting goods for personal use not connected with trade or manufacture or agriculture are exempt from obtaining IEC. Similarly, Indians returning from / going abroad and claiming benefit under Baggage Rules are also exempt from IE Code.

What documents are to be submitted to obtain IE Code?

• Demand Draft of Rs.250 evidencing payment of application fee in favour of the concerned Regional Office of DGFT. Money can also be paid through Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT).

• Certificate from the Banker of the applicant firm in the specified format.

• Self-certified copy of Permanent Account Number (PAN) issued by Income Tax Authorities.

• Two copies of passport size photographs of the applicant

• Photograph on the banker’s certificate should be attested by the banker of the applicant.

• Self-addressed envelope and stamp of Rs. 30.

• The above documents may be sent by post or hand delivered at the concerned Regional Office of DGFT

Can Import Export Code License be modified?

Yes. An application is to be filed along with the documents relevant to the changes / modifications sought by the entity.

Who are exempt from obtaining Import Export Code?

Import of any goods by the Central Government or agencies, undertakings owned and controlled by the Central Government for Defence purposes

Persons importing or exporting goods for personal use not connected with trade or manufacture or agriculture

Persons / Institutions / Hospitals importing or exporting goods for personnel use, not connected with trade or manufacture or agriculture

Is PAN Card is compulsory to obtain IE Code?

Yes, PAN is mandatory. Self-Certified Photocopy of PAN card has to be submitted along with the application.

Can more than one IEC be issued against one PAN?

Only one IEC would be issued against a single PAN number. Any proprietor can have only one IEC number and in case there are more than one IECs allotted to a proprietor, the same may be surrendered to the Regional Office for cancellation. In case of more than one proprietorship firm belonging to one proprietor, they will be indicated as branch offices of the first firm

How much time does it takes to get an IEC?

Normally it takes 10 days to get IE code.

Can IEC be hand delivered/Over the counter?

No, IEC issued are dispatched by Speed Post to the address mentioned on the self-addressed envelope enclosed with the application.

Whether IEC has to be revalidated / renewed after a period of time?

No, IEC need not be revalidated if the PAN is incorporated in it, but the same needs to be updated for changes in name/ address/constitution

If original IEC document is lost, can one get duplicate copy?

Where an IEC Number is lost or misplaced, the issuing authority may consider requests for grant of a duplicate copy of IEC number, if accompanied by an affidavit

How to surrender IEC Number?

If an IEC holder does not wish to operate the allotted IEC number, he may surrender the same by informing the issuing authority. On receipt of such intimation, the issuing authority shall immediately cancel the same and electronically transmit it to DGFT for onward transmission to the Customs and Regional Authorities

Whether exporter of software is required to obtain Import Export Code?

Import or Export of Services or technology – in case of import or export of services or technology the Importer-exporter Code Number shall be necessary only when the service or technology provider is taking benefit under the foreign trade policy or is dealing with specified services or specified technologies. (As per the amendment to Section 7 of Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Amendment Act, 2010.

In case you need any further information about Import Export Code and registration, you may please contact us at team@simplifiedlaws.com

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