Import Export Code Renewal

Renew your Import Export Code before the 30th June due date to avoid deactivation. IEC is essential for international trade and must be renewed annually. Don’t risk disruption—apply now for Import Export Code Renewal and keep your business running smoothly!

Apply for IEC Code Renewal

₹1499/ + Govt Fee (₹500/)
  • Documents Preparation & Filing
  • Issuances of Updated IEC Certificate

Import Export Code Renewal: Overview

The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). It is a mandatory requirement for any individual or business involved in importing or exporting goods or services from India.

Earlier, once you obtained your IEC, it was valid for a lifetime and didn’t need renewal. However, in 2021, the government introduced a new rule that requires annual renewal or confirmation of the IEC—even if there are no changes in your business. This needs to be done every financial year between April 1 and June 30. If the IEC is not updated within this time, it gets deactivated automatically by DGFT.

What is IEC and What Changed?

The IEC (Import Export Code) is a unique code required by every importer and exporter in India. Without it, you cannot clear goods through customs or receive foreign currency from international clients. It is used by customs, banks, and government authorities to track trade transactions.

Before 2021, IECs were valid for life without the need for renewal. But now, even though the code remains valid forever, DGFT requires every IEC holder to confirm or update their details annually.

If you fail to do so, your IEC will be deactivated and cannot be used for trade unless reactivated

import expot code renewal

Why is Import Export Code Renewal Important?

1. Legal Requirement

As per updated DGFT regulations, the IEC must be renewed or confirmed annually. Even if your business is inactive or dormant, you still have to comply.

2. To Avoid Deactivation

If you miss the annual update:

  • Your IEC gets deactivated automatically.
  • You cannot file customs documents.
  • Your shipments may be stopped at ports.
  • You lose eligibility for export incentives and rebates.

3. Keep Your Records Updated

Updating or confirming your IEC ensures your:

  • Contact details
  • Business address
  • Bank details
  • Nature of business
  • Ownership details
    … are all current and accurate with government records.

IEC Code Renewal Fees

₹1499 + Govt Fee (₹500)
  • Documents Preparation
  • Application Filing
  • Issuances of Updated IEC Certificate

Documents required for IEC Code Renewal

  • PAN card and Adhaar card of Proprietor/Partners/Directors
  • Passport-sized photographs of Proprietor/Partners/Directors
  • Email id and mobile number of Proprietor/Partners/Directors
  • Proof of business address (e.g., rent agreement, utility bills)
  • Bank account details (bank statement or cancelled cheque)
  • Partnership deed or Certificate of Incorporation (for companies/LLPs) – If any
  • PAN card of the applicant or business entity – if any
  • GST Registration Certificate – If have

Important Note: Name and Date of Birth would be same on PAN card and Adhaar card 

Annual Update Requirement For IEC Code

Every Import Export Code, IEC holder must update their code electronically between April and June each year. This process ensures that the information associated with the IEC remains current and compliant with regulations. Failure to update can lead to deactivation of the IEC.

Consequences of Non-Renewal of IEC

If you do not renew or update your IEC by June 30, here’s what will happen:

1. Deactivation

  • DGFT will automatically deactivate your IEC
  • You cannot use it for import/export until reactivation

2. Shipment Issues

  • Customs may stop clearance
  • Banks may not process foreign exchange
  • You may lose export scheme benefits

3. Reactivation

  • Log in to the DGFT portal and submit the update
  • Once submitted and approved, your IEC will be reactivated
  • There is no late penalty, but your trade will be disrupted
Setupfiling.in - Company Registration, GST Registration, trust Registration, Shop and Establishment registration, trademark registration, Sole Proprietorship Registration Fee

Apply Now for IEC Code RenewalStay compliant and keep your business thriving! Renew your Import Export Code today to ensure smooth international trade operations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is IEC Code?

IEC stands for Import Export Code. It is a 10-digit number issued by DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade). It is mandatory for any individual or business in India that wants to import or export goods or services.


2. Is IEC Code valid for a lifetime?

Yes, the IEC number itself is valid for life. However, as per DGFT rules, every IEC holder must update or confirm their IEC details every year between April 1 and June 30, to keep it active.


3. What is IEC Code Renewal?

IEC Code Renewal means confirming or updating your IEC details once a year on the DGFT portal. If no changes are required, you just need to log in and confirm the existing details.


4. Is IEC renewal mandatory?

Yes, it is mandatory for all IEC holders—even if there have been no changes in the business or the IEC has not been used.


5. What happens if I don’t renew my IEC?

If you fail to renew your IEC by June 30, it gets automatically deactivated. You will not be able to:

  • Clear goods through customs
  • Receive export payments
  • Avail government export benefits

To use it again, you must reactivate it by submitting the update online.


6. What is the deadline for IEC renewal in 2025?

The renewal period for 2025 is from April 1, 2025, to June 30, 2025. It’s best to complete it early to avoid technical issues or deactivation.


7. Is there any government fee for IEC renewal?

  • No, there is no fee for simply confirming the IEC.
  • If you make any changes or modifications, a ₹200 fee may apply.

8. Do I need to upload any documents for renewal?

  • If no changes are made: No documents are needed.
  • If changes are made: you may need to upload proof like:
    • PAN card
    • Address proof
    • Canceled cheque
    • Aadhaar (for verification)

9. How do I renew my IEC code online?

Steps to renew:

  1. Visit the DGFT portal
  2. Log in using your credentials
  3. Go to “Update IEC”
  4. Review and confirm or modify details
  5. Submit using Aadhaar OTP or DSC

10. What are the modes of signing the IEC renewal?

You can authenticate the renewal using:

  • Aadhaar OTP (ideal for individuals or proprietors)
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) (common for companies and LLPs)

11. Do I get a new IEC after renewal?

No. You keep the same IEC number. Only your certificate is updated, showing the latest details.


12. Can I change details like bank account or address during renewal?

Yes, you can modify details like:

  • Bank account number
  • Business address
  • Contact information
  • Director/partner details
    You may need to upload supporting documents.

13. What happens if I miss the renewal deadline?

Your IEC will be deactivated, and you cannot use it for importing or exporting. You must log in to the portal, submit the update, and your IEC will be reactivated.


14. Can I still renew my IEC after it gets deactivated?

Yes. Even after deactivation, you can log in, submit the update, and your IEC will be reactivated, usually within hours. No late penalty is charged, but trade operations get delayed.


15. Do I need to renew IEC if I didn’t do any import/export last year?

Yes. Even if your business was inactive, IEC renewal is still mandatory to keep the code active.


16. Can a consultant or CA file my IEC renewal?

Yes, you can hire a professional service provider, CA, or legal consultant to file the IEC renewal on your behalf. They may charge a service fee, but the process can also be done easily by you online.


17. What if I forgot my DGFT portal login details?

Use the “Forgot Password” option on the DGFT portal or contact DGFT helpdesk for assistance. Always keep login details secure and accessible.


18. Do I have to print and submit anything offline?

No. The entire process is completely online. There is no need to visit any office or submit physical forms.


19. How do I check the status of my IEC?

You can:

  • Log in to the DGFT portal
  • Go to “My IEC” section
  • View or download the latest IEC certificate
  • The status (Active/Inactive) will be shown

20. Is it safe to use Aadhaar OTP for signing?

Yes. Aadhaar OTP is secure, quick, and officially accepted by DGFT for IEC verification. It’s especially convenient for sole proprietors and individual applicants.