Import & Export License
Get your Importer Exporter Code (IEC) from DGFT online in 1–2 working days — the 10-digit code every business needs to import or export goods and services.
- Timeline1–2 working days from DGFT.
- Starting at₹1,999 + GST & Govt. fees applicable
- Documents7 items — shared securely online
About Import & Export License
An Importer Exporter Code is the basic registration for cross-border trade. Customs will not clear an import or export shipment without it, and banks need it to process foreign exchange payments for trade.
The IEC is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade against your PAN and does not need renewal, but it must be updated online every year. NewStarts files the application, links your bank account and reminds you of the annual update.
What is Import & Export License?
An Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is a 10-digit code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), based on the business PAN, that is mandatory for importing or exporting goods and for availing foreign trade benefits.
100% online, no office visit- Category
- Registrations
- Authority / portal
- Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry — DGFT online portal
- Timeline
- 1–2 working days from DGFT.
- Starting price
- ₹1,999
- Mode
- 100% online — no office visit needed
Who needs Import & Export License?
Situations where this service is required or strongly recommended.
Importers
Businesses bringing goods into India for sale or use.
Exporters of goods
Manufacturers and traders shipping goods abroad.
Service exporters
Service providers claiming export benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy.
E-commerce sellers
Sellers shipping cross-border through courier or marketplaces.
Startups going global
Businesses planning international sales from day one.
Eligibility
Basic conditions to qualify for Import & Export License.
Valid PAN
One IEC per PAN, for any constitution of business.
Business address
Address proof of the premises.
Bank account
Cancelled cheque or bank certificate in the business name.
Aadhaar or DSC
For signing the online application.
Benefits of Import & Export License
What you gain once it is done right.
Mandatory for customs
Clear shipments at ports, airports and ICDs.
Lifetime validity
No renewal needed; just the annual update.
Access to export incentives
Needed for schemes under the Foreign Trade Policy.
Easy foreign payments
Banks process trade remittances against the IEC.
Quick online issue
Usually issued within 1 to 2 working days.
No return filing
No periodic returns are filed for the IEC itself.
Types of Import & Export License
Choose the option that matches your situation.
IEC for proprietorships
Issued against the proprietor's PAN.
IEC for firms, LLPs and companies
Issued against the entity's PAN.
IEC for trusts and societies
Issued against the entity's PAN for charitable imports or exports.
Documents required
Keep these ready. We share an exact checklist for your specific case and collect everything through a secure online link.
Get this checklist on WhatsAppPAN Card of the Applicant
PAN of the proprietor, firm or company — the IEC is issued against this PAN.
Aadhaar Card
Aadhaar of the proprietor / partners / directors for identity verification.
Business Constitution Proof
Certificate of incorporation, partnership deed or LLP agreement, as applicable.
Business Address Proof
Latest electricity bill, property tax receipt or sale deed of the business premises.
Rental Agreement / NOC
If the premises are rented — a registered rent agreement along with a No-Objection Certificate from the property owner.
Bank Account Details
Cancelled cheque with the business name pre-printed, or a bank certificate, as required by DGFT.
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
Class 3 DSC of the authorised signatory, needed for filing on behalf of firms and companies.
Step-by-step process
How NewStarts takes Import & Export License from first call to final delivery.
- 01
Consultation
We confirm whether an IEC is needed for your trade.
- 02
Collect documents
PAN, address proof and bank details.
- 03
Register on DGFT
A DGFT account is created and linked to your PAN.
- 04
File the application
Form ANF-2A is filed online with the fee.
- 05
Sign with Aadhaar OTP or DSC
The application is signed electronically.
- 06
IEC certificate
The e-IEC is issued and shared with you.
NewStarts Import & Export License service
What is included when you engage NewStarts.
Free eligibility check
A specialist reviews your facts and confirms the right route and package for Import & Export License before you pay anything.
Document checklist & review
You receive an exact checklist and upload through a secure link. We verify every document to avoid rejections.
Drafting & filing
We prepare every form, declaration and annexure for Import & Export License and file on the correct government portal.
Query & objection handling
Any departmental query or clarification is answered by our team, with corrected filings where needed.
Delivery & hand-over
Certificates and approvals are shared digitally, with a plain-language note on your next compliance steps.
Post-service support
Reminders, renewals and related filings can be handled by the same NewStarts relationship manager.
Transparent pricing
No hidden charges. Choose the package that fits — upgrade anytime.
Basic
₹1,999
+ GST & Govt. fees applicable
Core IEC registration filing
- Application preparation
- DGFT portal filing
- IEC certificate delivery
Premium
₹3,999
+ GST & Govt. fees applicable
Priority IEC registration with dedicated support
- Everything in Basic
- Document verification support
- Email & WhatsApp support
- Dedicated relationship manager
- Priority certificate delivery
Import & Export License FAQs
Have questions? We have answers.
Can’t find your answer? Ask the assistant, or speak to our team.
Yes, for exporting goods and for claiming export benefits. A few categories such as personal use are exempt.
No, but it must be updated online every year to stay active.
Usually 1 to 2 working days.
Yes, as a proprietor using their PAN.
₹500 for a new IEC.
No, but most importers and exporters also need GST.
Yes. Document collection, e-signing and filing are completed online, so you do not need to visit any office. Where a physical step is unavoidable, we tell you upfront.
NewStarts professional fees, GST and government fees are shown separately. Government fees are paid at actuals and confirmed with you before filing.
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Ready to start your Import & Export License?
Book a free consultation and get an exact document checklist and quote for your case.
