The Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) is a crucial requirement for businesses engaged in foreign trade, facilitating imports and exports by providing a unique identification number.
What is an IEC: Overview
An IEC (import and Export Code), or Importer-Exporter Code, is a unique 10-digit code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to entities engaged in import or export activities in India. It is mandatory for all businesses that wish to import or export goods to obtain an Importer-Exporter Code. The IEC serves as an identification number for the business and is required for various trade-related activities, such as filing customs documents, applying for import or export licenses, and opening bank accounts for trade transactions. Know the complete details of IEC Certificate and how to apply IEC Code online.
How to Verify Import and Export Code Online
There are two ways to verify an IEC online:
- Through the DGFT website:
- Visit the DGFT website: https://www.dgft.gov.in/CP/view-any-ice
- Click on the “Services” tab and select “View Importer-Exporter Code Details”.
- Enter the IEC number and the first three characters of the firm’s name.
- Click on the “Submit” button.
The IEC details, including the status of the Importer-Exporter Code (active or inactive), will be displayed on the screen.
- Through the ICEGATE website:
- Visit the ICEGATE website: https://www.icegate.gov.in/
- Click on the “Services” tab and select “ICEGATE Registration Verification”.
- Enter the PAN number and captcha code.
- Click on the “Submit” button.
The ICEGATE registration details, including the import and Export Code number, the status of the Importer-Exporter Code (active or inactive), and the registration date, will be displayed on the screen.
Documents Required for IEC Verification
The following documents are required for import and Export Code verification:
- A copy of the PAN card of the applicant.
- A copy of the applicant’s address proof.
- A copy of the applicant’s bank account statement.
- A copy of the applicant’s business registration certificate (if any).
- A copy of the applicant’s export authorization letter (if applicable).
- A copy of the applicant’s import authorization letter (if applicable).
Benefits of a Valid Importer-Exporter Code
A valid import and Export Code offers several benefits to businesses engaged in import or export activities, including:
- Ease of doing business: A valid Importer-Exporter Codeallows businesses to obtain import or export licenses easily, file customs documents, and open bank accounts for trade transactions.
- Reduced paperwork: A valid IEC helps to reduce the paperwork required for trade transactions.
- Access to government schemes: A valid IEC allows businesses to access various government schemes and incentives available to importers and exporters.
- Enhanced credibility: A valid Importer-Exporter Code enhances the credibility of a business among its trading partners.
- Global reach: A valid Importer-Exporter Code allows businesses to expand their reach and trade with partners in other countries.
Therefore, it is essential for businesses engaged in import or export activities to obtain and maintain a valid IEC.
How to Apply for an Importer-Exporter Code License
To apply for an IEC, you must submit some documents to the relevant authority. These documents include:
- A copy of your company registration
- A copy of your business address
- A copy of your founding document or memorandum of association
- An application fee
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can apply for the IEC through the relevant website. The application process is simple and takes only a few minutes or days to complete. Once you have received your Importer-Exporter Code, you can begin importing and exporting products without problems.
Who Can use it in India?
- Import Export Code Certificate is an important document that allows importers and exporters to do business in India.
- Anyone who wants to import or export goods into or out of India must have an import export code certificate.
- The import-export code certificate is also known as an authorisation letter.
- The Indian authorities issued this letter. It confirms that the person importing or exporting the goods has been authorised by the Indian government.
- Individuals, businesses, and organisations can use the import-export code certificate. It is especially useful for companies that want to import or export large quantities of goods.
- Once you have received your certificate, you can start importing or exporting goods without problems.
Why Should You Get One in India?
The import and Export Code Certificate (IEC) is an important document proving that the goods you are exporting comply with Indian regulations. Getting this document if you are exporting any goods to India is important. It will ensure that your products are safe and meet all the requirements. There are a few reasons why you should get an IEC in India. First, an IEC can help avoid customs issues when exporting your products to India. It will also prove that the goods you are exporting are not stolen or counterfeit, which can reduce the risk of penalties or fines.
Finally, an IEC can help to protect your business against possible litigation from buyers in India. If they believe that your product is unsafe or not compliant with their standards, an IEC can help to protect you from legal action. If you plan to export any products to India, it is important to get an IEC. It will ensure that your products are safe and compliant with Indian regulations.
Confusing words that go with the IEC certificate in India
The coding certificate is made up of several confusing words that go with it.
For example, the word ‘import’ is defined in the code as follows: ‘Import means the bringing into India of goods by any person, other than an ex-patriate, in contravention of any law or regulation.’ So, suppose you’re looking to import something into India, even those that aren’t generally allowed by law. In that case, you’ll need to obtain a code certificate. And, to export something out of India, you’ll need a code certificate too.
There are a few different ways to get a code certificate. You can get it from the Indian government or an agency authorised to provide them. And, once you have it, you’ll need to carry it wherever you go.
FAQs
How do I know if my import-export code is valid?
There are two ways to verify the validity of your Importer-Exporter Code:
1. Through the DGFT website:
2. Visit the DGFT website: https://www.dgft.gov.in/CP/view-any-ice
3. Click on the Services tab and select View IEC Details.
4. Enter the Importer-Exporter Code number and the first three characters of the firm's name.
5. Click on the Submit button.
If the Importer-Exporter Code is valid, the Importer-Exporter Code details, including the status of the Importer-Exporter Code (active or inactive), will be displayed on the screen. If the IEC is invalid, an error message will be displayed.
1. Through the ICEGATE website:
2. Visit the ICEGATE website: https://www.icegate.gov.in/
3. Click on the Services tab and select ICEGATE Registration Verification.
4. Enter the PAN number and captcha code.
5. Click on the Submit button.
If the IEC is valid, the ICEGATE registration details, including the IEC number, status of the IEC (active or inactive), and the registration date, will be displayed on the screen. If the IEC is invalid, an error message will be displayed.
How do I verify an import-export certificate?
The validity of an import-export certificate can be verified by checking the issuing authority and the date of issuance.
How do I verify my IEC code?
You can verify your IEC code using the methods described above.
How can I verify my IEC in India?
You can verify your IEC in India using the methods described above.
What is the validity of the IEC certificate?
The validity of an IEC certificate is ten years.
What is the cost of a DGFT license?
There is no fee for obtaining an IEC.
How do I validate my IEC every year?
You do not need to validate your IEC every year. The IEC is valid for ten years from the date of issuance.
How can I check IEC by PAN number?
You can check the status of an IEC by PAN number using the ICEGATE website. To do this, follow the steps below:
1. Visit the ICEGATE website: https://www.icegate.gov.in/
2. Click on the Services tab and select ICEGATE Registration Verification.
3. Enter the PAN number and captcha code.
4. Click on the Submit button.
If the IEC is valid, the ICEGATE registration details, including the IEC number, status of the IEC (active or inactive), and the registration date, will be displayed on the screen. If the IEC is invalid, an error message will be displayed.
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