A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE ON HOW TO APPLY FOR IMPORTER EXPORTER CODE (IEC)

The Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is a crucial requirement for any business engaged in international trade, whether importing to or exporting from India. Obtaining this identification number is essential unless an exemption is granted. The process is straightforward if you are wondering how to apply for iec. The application can be made online through the DGFT website, and all the necessary documents must be uploaded with the application. The application fee can also be paid online. Once the application is approved, the IEC will be issued to the applicant. It is important to note that the IEC now aligns with the Permanent Account Number of the firm since the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax. If you are engaged in international trade and do not have an IEC, it is recommended that you apply for one as soon as possible.

What are the steps for applying for the Importer Exporter Code (IEC)?

• Go To The Website – 

If you are wondering how to apply for iec, the first step is to create an account on the official website. To obtain your Importer Exporter Code, visit www.dgft.gov.in, the official website of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade. The website is a central hub for foreign trade-related information and services. The homepage displays the latest notifications and updates containing significant information like regulatory changes and policy updates. Being aware of these updates is crucial for your import/export activities. Regularly checking the homepage will keep you updated with the latest developments in foreign trade and ensure compliance with any new requirements that may affect your business operations.

• Go to the Services tab – 

To proceed with your IEC application, navigate to the Services tab on the DGFT website. Simply hover over the Services tab to reveal a menu of various services, including IEC. Click on the IEC option to proceed, and you will be directed to a new page where you can find the Online IEC Application tab. Click on this tab to continue with your application process. Keep in mind that website updates can cause changes in appearance, but following these simple steps should lead you to the right place.

•  Pan Number Input – 

If you are wondering how to apply for iec, providing your PAN number is one of the crucial steps in the application process. The number could belong to either the proprietor or the company, depending on your status. Accurately entering the PAN number is crucial to prevent delays in processing your application. After entering the PAN number, click the “Search” button to proceed. This will display a page of the relevant information associated with the number, including the proprietor or company name to confirm your identity and ensure the accuracy of your application. Following these simple steps is essential to avoid errors in the IEC application process.

• Provide your personal details according to your PAN Card. 

Follow these steps:

1.       Fill in your full name as mentioned on your PAN Card.
2.     Enter your date of birth in the specified format.
3.       Fill in the Captcha Code to confirm you’re a human user.
4.     Make sure to enter your details accurately to verify your identity and ensure the accuracy of your application. 
5.       After entering the required information and Captcha Code, click “Submit” to proceed. Your entered details will be sent for verification and processing.

• Mobile and Email Verification –

1.       Enter your mobile number and email address in the designated fields.
2.     Fill in the Captcha Code for verification purposes.
3.       Click “Generate OTP.”
4.     Check your mobile phone and email inbox for the unique OTP number sent to you.
5.       Enter the mobile OTP into the designated text box for mobile verification.
6.       Similarly, enter the email OTP into the designated text box for verification.

• Update your application entity details:

1.       Fill in the Application Entity Details section with your entity’s legal name, entity type, address, and contact details.
2.     If you need to make any updates or corrections, ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
3.       Review and verify the entered details to avoid delays in the application process.
4.     Save or submit the updated entity details per the instructions on the application page. 
5.       By following these steps, you can know how to apply for iec for your entity, making it smoother for everyone involved.
   

• You Can Add Branch Details

1.       If your company has branch offices involved in importing and exporting, you can add their details in this step. 
2.     To do so, click the “Branch” option after updating your entity details. 
3.       Fill in the necessary information for each branch office, including its name, address, and contact details. 
4.     Click “ADD” to save the information. 
5.     Fill Director/Partner Details 

1. On the next page, find the “Director/Partner” tab and click on it. 
2. Enter the necessary details for each director or partner, including their PAN number, residential proof, mobile number, and email address. 
3. Ensure all information is accurate and complete before clicking “ADD” to save the details. 

9.     Upload essential documents 
10.       Click on step 4 or any similar option to upload documents. 
11.     Look for specific document sections such as address proof or bank certificate. 
12.       Ensure scanned copies of documents are in PDF or JPEG format. 
13.     Select the document type and browse for the scanned file. 
14.       Repeat the process for each document. 
15.       Review the list to ensure all documents are uploaded. 

• Fee Payment

1.       To proceed, head to the “Fee Payment” or a similar option at the top of the page. 
2.     On the Fee Payment page, fill in the field with the appropriate amount for the IEC application fee – currently Rs. 500/ as per the government. 
3.       You can pay through Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or Wallet, based on your convenience. 
4.     Choose the payment mode you prefer and provide the requested details. 
5.       After making the payment successfully, return to the same page. 
6.       Look for the “Verify Pay” or a similar button and click on it to confirm the payment.
7.     Verify the payment that you have just made. 

• Preview And Print – 

After paying the fee and completing all the required steps, you can preview and print your application. This can be used for official or business purposes and will display all the information you have entered. If you need to make any changes, simply go back to a page. Check the checklist provided under the form to ensure that all conditions have been met, including verifying that the candidate details match the uploaded documents.

• Submit Your Final Work 

1.       First, check the details and numbers displayed. 
2.     The DGFT Office will be automatically selected. Click “proceed.” 
3.       The next page will allow you to “Submit and Generate IEC Certificate.”

Summary – 

Getting an IEC is the first step if you want to export from India. With an IEC, you can become an Amazon global seller and reach customers in over 200 countries. More than 100,000 sellers have already done it. Amazon Global Selling provides sellers with tools for shipping, delivery, customer feedback, and advertising. This makes it easy for sellers to manage their business and establish a global brand presence.