Request A Call Back *

Importer Exporter Code

Import Export (IE) Code is a registration required for persons importing or exporting goods and services from India. IE Code is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industries, Government of India. IE Codes when issued can be used by the entity throughout its existence and doesn’t require any renewal or filing. Therefore, it is recommended for most organizations to obtain IE Code, irrespective of if they need it at the moment.

IE Code application must be made to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade along with the necessary supporting documents. Once, the application is submitted, DGFT will issue the IE Code for the entity in 15 – 20 working days or less.

Reasons to Register a IE Code

Importers Require IE Code

All Importers who import goods into India require an IE Code. The IE Code must be quoted while clearing customs. Also, banks require the importers IE Code while sending money abroad.

No Return Filing

IE Code does not require the filing of any return. Once, an IE Code is issued there are no further procedures required to maintain validity of the IE Code. Even if import or export transactions occur, there are no filings required to DGFT.

Proprietors can have IE Code

Even individuals who are proprietors of a business can obtain IE Code in their name. It is not necessary to incorporate a business entity for obtaining IE Code.

Exporters Require IE Code

All Exporters who export goods or services from India require an IE Code. The IE Code must be quoted while sending shipments. And banks require the exporters IE Code while receiving money from abroad.

Lifetime - NO Renewal

IE Code is issued for the lifetime of the entity and requires no renewal. So once a IE Code is obtained, it can be used by that entity for all its import or export transactions without any further hassles.

LLP vs Partnership

 Who is exempt?

Import Export Code or IE Code is required for every person or firm or company or entity engaged in export business in India. IE Code is provided by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) as required under the Foreign Trade Policy.

Documents Required for Export Code

Identity and Business Proof

Identity proof like passport, drivers license, aadhaar card, voters id or ration card for the promoters with photo or person authorised to file IE code application. In case of legal entity or registered body, then partnership deed or incorporation certificate or registration certificate is required.

Cancelled Cheque Copy

Bank certificate as per DGFT format or cancelled cheque bearing preprinted name of applicant and account number. Bank certificate or cancelled cheque is used to verify that the applicant has an active current account with a bank in India.

Application Preparation

An Constitutional counsels Tax Expert will prepare your IE Code Application in the prescribed format along with the necessary supporting documents and obtain your signature in the application.

Application Processing

Once the application is prepared, Constitutional counsels will submit the IE Code Application to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade for further processing and allotment of IE Code.

IE Code Allotment

Once the application and the attached supporting documents are verified, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade will allot a IE Code for your business.

OUR MISSION

We help Entrepreneurs start and operate successful businesses

Constitutionalcounsels.in is India’s largest online business services platform dedicated to helping people easily start and manage their business, at an affordable cost. Our aim is to help the entrepreneur on the legal and regulatory requirements, and be a partner throughout the business lifecycle, offering support at every stage to ensure the business remains compliant and continually growing.

Constitutionalcounsels.in partners with a network of experienced Chartered Accountants, Company Secretaries, Lawyers, Cost Accountants, Chartered Engineers, Ex-Bankers and Financial Experts across India to provide a comprehensive range of services for small and medium sized enterprises.

OPC Registration FAQ,s

What is IE Code?

IE Code stands for Import Export Code. It is required for any person importing or exporting goods and services to or from India.

Why is IE Code required?

All importers must mention their IE Code while clearing customs when their goods arrive in India. All exporters must mention their IE Code while exporting their goods from India. Additionally, now RBI requests person importing or exporting services to also mention IE Code in foreign remittances in bank account. Therefore, IE Code is required for anyone involved in import or export in India.

Is there a tax levied based on IE Code?

No. IE Code is not a tax registration. So no tax is levied based on IE Code during import or export of goods or services. However, customs duty maybe levied.

Who must obtain IE Code registration?

Any person who proposes to import or export goods and services from or to India must obtain IE Code.

Can individuals obtain IE Code?

Yes, individuals acting as Proprietors of a business can obtain IE Code Registration.

What are the documents required for IE Code registration?

To obtain IE Code registration, a copy of PAN Card, proof of address of business and constitution of the business [Partnership deed, Incorporation Certificate, etc.,] and a letter from the banker is required.

How long does it take to obtain IE Code registration?

IE Code Registration can be obtained from the DGFT in 10-15 working days after submission of all required documents and application.

What is the penalty for not having IE Code?

IE Code is not a mandatory registration, only importers and exporters of goods or services must have IE Code. Therefore, there is no penalty for not having IE Code; however, import / export will not be possible without an IE Code.

Do I have to file any returns for IE Code?

No. Returns need NOT be filed for IE Code.

How long is the IE Code valid for?

IE Code is valid for life-time of the entity and renewal is also not necessary.