Use of Import Export Code (IEC) Certificate

Posted on 05-05-2020 :

Import Export Code (IEC) Certificate :

• IEC (Import Export Code) is required by anyone who is looking to kick-start his/her import/export business in the country. 
• It is issued by the DGFT (Director General of Foreign Trade). 
• IEC is a 10-digit code which has a lifetime validity. 
• Predominantly importers merchant cannot import goods without the Import Export Code and similarly, the exporter merchant cannot avail benefits from DGFT for the export scheme, etc. without IEC.
• Once the required documents are submitted online and made payment, the code is generated within 3-5 working days.

IEC is required in the following situations :

• When an importer has to clear his shipments from the customs then it’s needed by the customs authorities.
• When an importer sends money abroad through banks then it’s needed by the bank.
• When an exporter has to send his shipments then its needed by the customs port.
• When an exporter receives money in foreign currency directly into his bank account then its required by the bank.

Steps Involved in IEC (Import/Export Code) Registration :

Step 1: First, you need to prepare an application form in the specified format – Aayaat Niryaat Form no. 2A format and file it with the respective Regional office of DGFT.

Step 2: Secondly, you need to prepare the required documents with respect to your identity & legal entity and address proof with your bank details & the certificate in respect of ANF2A.

Step 3: One your application is completed, you need to file with DGFT via DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) and pay the required fee for the IEC Registration.

Step 4: Finally, once your application is approved then you would receive the IEC Code in a soft copy from the government.

Benefits of IEC Registration :

• Expansion of Business
• IEC assists you in taking your services or product to the global market and grow your businesses.
• Availing Several Benefits
• The Companies could avail several benefits of their imports/ exports from the DGFT, Export Promotion Council, Customs, etc., on the basis of their IEC registration.
• No Filling of returns
• IEC does not require the filing of any returns. Once allotted, there isn’t any requirement to follow any sort of processes for sustaining its validity. Even for export transactions, there isn’t any requirement for filing any returns with DGFT.
• Easy Processing
• It is fairly easy to obtain IEC code from the DGFT within a period of 5 to 10 days after submitting the application. There isn’t any need to provide proof of any export or import for getting IEC code.
• No need for renewal
• IEC code is effective for the lifetime of an entity and requires no renewal. After it is obtained, it could be used by an entity against all export and import transactions

Documents required for IEC (Import Export Code) Registration :

For IEC Code Registration following documents are required:

• Individual’s or Firm’s or Company’s copy of PAN Card
• Individual’s voter id or Aadhar card or passport copy
• Individual’s or company’s or firm’s cancel cheque copy of current bank account
• Copy of Rent Agreement or Electricity Bill Copy of the premise

Cases where Export Import Code (EIC) is not mandatory :

• IEC is not mandatory for all traders who are registered under GST. In all such cases, the PAN of the trader shall be construed as new IEC code for the purpose of import and export.
• Import Export Code (IEC) isn’t required to be taken in case the goods exported or imported is for personal purposes and isn’t used for any commercial purpose.
• Export/ Import done by the Government of India Departments and Ministries, Notified Charitable institutions need not require getting Import Export Code.

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, 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.