Online IEC code renewal - Process, Fees, Importance, DGFT Notification

Updated on July 06, 2024 11:04:38 PM

Import Export Code requires renewal every year during April-June period. Failing to do so will result in deactivation of the IEC license. Earlier it was not needed to renew each year.

But on 12th February, 2021, Central Government made amendments in Import Export acide related provisions under chapter 1 and 2 of Foreign Trade Policy. This amendments made updation of IEC code details mandatory for all IEC or e-IEC holders on DGFT portal each year.

The existing users can easily sign in to the platform using their login details and connect their IEC. The process involves identification which can be done by use of a DSC or Aadhaar card. Once the three-step authentication process is complete, businesses can use the web application, choose the “Update/Modify IEC” and complete the necessary details. All the necessary documents including the IEC license number, company’s PAN Card, GST certificate, etc must be in a suitable format and easily accessible when renewing the IEC license online.


IEC code renewal sample
table content image

What is the IEC code?

A 10-digit number which is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), is known as Importer Exporter Code (IEC). This is a unique identification number used by importers and exporters to run a hassle-free business globally. IEC has lifetime validity, so the importer merchants cannot import goods without the IEC, and exporter merchants cannot enjoy the benefits from DGFT for the Export scheme, without an IEC.

pu seperater

IEC code Renewal Process

The IEC code renewal process involves several steps here is a step-by-step guide to the process:

Documentation: Provide all the related documents and details in regards with the import export certificate in order to process the application for the renewal of IEC code.

Filling of application: Once all the details and documents are available, file the renewal application on the portal itself. Once the application is duly filled make the payment respectively.

Renewal approval: After the application is submitted successfully, the authorities will examine the application and after the successful verification of details and documents. DGFT will reissue or renew the existing IEC certificate for the respective applicant.

pu seperater

Document required for IEC Renewal

The key documents required for IEC renewal are:

  • PAN card copy of the applicant entity
  • Address proof of the company(Electricity Bill)
  • Lease/Rental Agreement if the office is rented
  • Cancelled cheque copy of company’s current bank account
  • Sale deed if the company is self-owned
  • Digital Photograph(3*3)
  • IEC certificate
pu seperater

Import Export Code Renewal Fees

The professional fees of renewing or updating IEC code is Rs. 999.

What is Import Export Code (IEC)

Importance of IEC License Renewal


In effect from 12th February 2021, Central Government has made renewal or update of Import Export Code details mandatory on DGFT portal. It is now compulsory for all the IEC License holders have to update their IEC Code status each year during April-June Period. Even if there are no upgradation of details, same needs to be updated online. Registered AD code will turn invalid incase IEC is not updated annualy.

Therefore, if you want to run your import export business legally and smoothly then you must renew your IEC code in due time.

These amendments of Importer Exporter Code related provisions are made under Chapter 1 and 2 of Foreign Trade Policy, 2015-2020.

pu seperater

DGFT Notification for Import Export Code Renewal

The import-export license renewals are notified by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade.

In exercise of powers discussed by Section 3 of FT (D&R) Act, 1992, read with paragraph 1.02 and 2.01 of the Foreign Trade Policy, 2015-2020, as revised from time to time, the Central Government has amends the IEC related provisions under Chapter-1 and Chapter-2 of Foreign Trade Policy, 2015-2020.

Further, DGFT applying a new amendment for updating IEC (Now considered e-IEC). Now, every year from April to June even if all details of IEC remain same all existing holders have to confirmed compulsory. IEC may be de-activated if not confirmed.


New Amendments for Import Export Code

  1. Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is obligatory for export/ import from/to India as specified in the Policy.
  2. DGFT issues Importer Exporter Code in electronic form (e-IEC) where Application for issuance of e-IEC can be made instantly on the DGFT official Notification.
  3. Amendment in the name of Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) as now it is Importer-Exporter Code (IEC)/(e-IEC)
  4. Also, the application process for IEC and up-gradation in IEC is entirely online and IEC can be generated by the applicant as per the procedure detailed in the Handbook of Procedure.

New Amendments for Import Export Code

Further Significant Amendments by DGFT

Further Significant Amendments by DGFT

The following sub-paragraphs are entered under para 2.05 of Chapter-2 of Foreign Trade Policy, 2015-2020 as under:

  1. IEC shall be updated electronically every year: An IEC holder has to assure that specifications in its IEC are updated electronically every year, during the April-June period. In cases where there are no changes in IEC details same also requires to be confirmed online.
  2. IEC shall be de-activated, if it is not updated: An IEC shall be de-activated, if it is not updated within the specific time. An IEC therefore de-activated may be initiated, on its successful up-gradation. This would be without detriment to any other action carried for violation of any other provisions of the FTP.
  3. IEC may be Flagged under Scrutiny: An IEC may be also be flagged for scrutiny. IEC holders are obligated to assure that any risks flagged by the system are timely declaimed, otherwise the IEC shall be deactivated.
pu seperater

Consequences of Non-Renewal of Import Export Code

Importers and Exporters having IEC Code or license needs to ensure timely renewal, as an expired Importer Exporter Code is treated the same as not having any IEC code. If you continue to run an import export business without timely renewal, your IEC code will be deactivated by DGFT. It may result in unnecessary hustle as the IEC code is required during customs, shipping and international trade. So, it is best advised to renew and update the IEC code in due time to avoid cancellation or deactivation of your code.

pu seperater

Conclusion

The process to apply for IEC code renewal through the DGFT portal includes updating new details as per their portal, and the documents required which include: incorporation papers/ID proof/address proof/canceled cheque/Aadhar/digital signature. Currently, there is no government fee, but professional services may cost anything between Rs. 2000 to Rs. 3500, and expedited services are available at Rs.1500 for a flat. Annual renewal is required as the system may be deactivated at any time, this would greatly affect import/export timescales. Requirements for renewal are stated in the notifications of the DGFT, some of which promise to take effect sooner while providing some exemptions on certain updates. Implementation of these regs ensures the proper business process flow and the exclusion of potential problems related to IEC deactivation.

pu seperater
why choose image

Why Professional Utilities?

At Professional Utilities, we leverage our industry knowledge and expertise to help businesses navigate complex regulations, minimize risks, and optimize operations for maximum efficiency and profitability.

best price in market

Best Price
Guarantee

Easy Registration

Easy Registration
Process

All Corporate Services

One Stop Corporate Solution

PAN India Services

PAN India
Services

Expert CA/CS Assistance

Free Expert
Assistance

Google Verified Bussiness

Google Verified
Business

Dedicated Support staff

Dedicated Support
Staff

Money-Back Guarantee

Money-Back
Guarantee

Trusted By

clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
Lappy Maker
pu seperater

Other Import Export Services

Import Export Code Renewal Apeda Registration AD code Registration
Tea Board Registration Coffee Board Registration Merchandise exports from India
Spice Board Registration MSDS(Material Safety Data Registration) SAFTA License
SAPTA License APTA Certificate Registration Capexil Certificate
IIP UN Mark Certificate ICPTA Certificate Registration IJCEPA Certificate Registration
UAE CEPA Certificate Registration ISCECA Certificate

IEC Registration in other states

Import Export Code in Delhi Import Export Code in Assam Import Export Code in Chhattisgarh
Import Export Code in Haryana Import Export Code in Himachal Pradesh Import Export Code in Maharashtra
Import Export Code in Jammu and Kashmir Import Export Code in Jharkhand Import Export Code in Madhya Pradesh
Import Export code in Punjab Import Export Code in Uttar Pradesh Import Export Code in Uttarakhand
Import Export Code in Rajasthan Import Export Code in Noida Import Export Code in Telangana
Import Export Code in Tamil Nadu Import Export Code in Kerala Import Export Code in West Bengal
Import Export Code in Gujrat Import Export Code in Karnataka
pu seperater

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the IEC code to be renewed every year?

Yes, For new or updated product types, it is necessary to update the IEC profile annually. If the IEC profile is not updated, this will mean that the specific profile will be deactivated.

How do I renew my importer-exporter code?

Locate the website of the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) of the country of your interest. Locate the IEC renewal section or the page with online services. You may have to disclose information such as your current IEC number in case you have one, your PAN number, and some other information as well.

How do I reactivate my import-export code?
  • Visit the DGFT website.
  • Click "Update IEC"
  • Log in to your IEC dashboard.
  • Personal Login: Please input your user ID, password, and the correct captcha.
What is the validity of the IEC?

The validity of an IEC once granted to an applicant is permanent but it is essential to renew the IEC on an annual basis to prevent the IEC from getting deactivated. The update should be made between April and June each year and in cases where the IEC is updated during this period, no fee shall be charged for the update.

Is IEC mandatory?

Yes, An IEC number is required to be obtained for import to any part of India or export from India. This is a unique number recognized for importing and exporting during international business transactions. One cannot export or import goods without an IEC unless otherwise authorized. However, IEC is not required to export services except in certain conditions that are related to taking the benefits under Foreign Trade Policy.

How much time does it take to get the IEC code?

Automatically, once an ‘online application’ is filled as per the above process by paying the appropriate fees and uploading the necessary documents IEC will be generated. The IEC Certificate will be issued by the DGFT and the same shall be sent through a registered E-mail ID of the applicant.

Whats_app.svg
Call_icon.svg