IEC Code – Its Benefit, How to Apply for it and Verification Done?

Are you considering launching an import-export business, or do you want to run your present business internationally?

An IEC Code or import export code is your main key to making it happen. This 10-digit code, provided by the DGFT, is important for any business handling cross-border trade.

In this guide, we will discuss everything you must know about getting an IEC Code—from how to apply for one to benefits and how to do IEC code verification. So, are you all set to start a business globally without any hassles?

What is the IEC Code?

The IEC Code is a specific 10-digit registration code provided by the DGFT or the Government of India’s Directorate General of Foreign Trade. The IEC code verification and its number are essential for any import-export business in India, as they make it effortless to track and manage consignments.

What are the Benefits of the IEC Code?

1. Increasing Your Business with Import Export Code

The IEC or import export code helps you take your products or services to the international marketplace and increase your business all over the world.

2. Getting Numerous Benefits

When you list for an IEC, your organisation can get many benefits for importing and exporting. You can gain from entities such as the DGFT, Export Promotion Council (EPC), Customs, and many more.

3. Simple and Fast Process

Getting an IEC code from the DGFT is simple and fast. You can expect the code within ten to fifteen days after applying. You do not need any proof of earlier imports or exports to get this code.

Having an import-export code opens up possibilities for international trade and makes it simpler for businesses to run without thinking about continuous renewals or filing returns.

How to Apply for IEC Code?

The process to get an import-export code is given below:

1. You can apply for a new IEC by visiting the DGFT website.
2. To register for this code, click on the “Online IEC application” tab, which will open another window.
3. For your ease, this page offers you the list of documents needed for getting the code. On this page, you will need to enter the primary details needed for the IEC application — your PAN Card. Once you put forward your PAN details, one more page will open requesting more details.
4. After feeding the name and date of birth or incorporation declared next to the submitted PAN, click on the submit button.
5. After your PAN verification is done, it will be visible in an uneditable box. You just need to click on the “Next” button.
6. On the other screen, you will be requested for your mobile number and email ID. After completing the details and the captcha code, click on the “Generate One-time password” button to get an OTP. On another screen, feed the OTP received on your mobile phone and email ID.

After the above steps, a 20-digit e-commerce reference number is produced, which works as a specific verifier for your application. After that, you will need to fill out the application form on the page, which will request information associated with you and your export business.

Once you fill out the form, you can go ahead and use the ‘Pay Online’ button to pay the IEC code charges.

The form will request aiding documents, which can be uploaded to the site by clicking the ‘attachment’ button, choosing the document category and type, and selecting the file prior to uploading it. The previous details you filled out will involuntarily appear in the ANF-2A form on your screen. You need to verify and put forward the information by clicking on the ‘Proceed’ button. Your IEC certificate application procedure is now finished.

After some time, you will get your digital IEC certificate.

How is IEC Code Verification Done?

It is significant to do IEC code verification as it authenticates its credibility, which is necessary for businesses involved in global trade.

To verify your IEC code, you can employ the DGFT and ICEGATE portals. Here is how authentication is done:

IEC Code verification via DGFT

1. Go to the DGFT website.
2. Choose the “IEC Profile Management” option from the homepage.
3. Sign in to your account.
4. Search for the option to manage or verify your IEC information. Enter your import-export code number in the given field and click on the “validate” button.
5. After validation, the system will show your code information, including its present status (active, cancelled, or suspended). This assures that your IEC is properly registered and is in active state for use in import or export business.

You can also do your IEC code verification using the  ICEGATE website. To verify your IEC status:

1. Go to the Services tab.
2. Choose Check IE Code or BIN Status.
3. Feed your IEC code.
4. Click IE Code@ICEGATE to check the complete status details.

Documents Required for Getting an IEC Code

1. Proof of incorporation/establishment/registration.
2. Registered Society
3. Partnership
4. HUF
5. Trust
6. Others
7. Address proof can be any one of the following things:
8. Rent contract, sale deed, electricity bill, lease deed, landline bill, mobile’s postpaid bill, partnership deed, or MoU.
9. Other acceptable documents for proof (for proprietorship only) are a passport, Aadhar card, or voter ID.
10. If the address proof is not in the name of the applicant’s company, NOC by the firm premises holder in favour of the company, together with the address proof, is to be presented in one PDF document.
11. Proof of the Company’s Bank Account
12. Bank certificate
13. Cancelled Cheque.

Final Words

An IEC code verification is important if you want to run your business in other countries. It makes it simpler to import or export without doing additional paperwork or renewals. By following the simple and fast process of getting an IEC and offering significant documents, you can take your products or services to the international market and increase your business worldwide. If you are also looking to enhance your international business, then considering Amazon Global Selling’s export program will help you attain your goals effectively.