1-2 days (online)
Free (since 2020)
Any business entity (proprietorship, partnership, company)
Businesses engaged in import or export of goods/services
Go to dgft.gov.in and register.
Complete ANF 2A form online.
Submit PAN, Aadhaar, bank certificate, and cancelled cheque.
Sign application with DSC (Digital Signature Certificate).
DGFT verifies documents (usually within 1-2 days).
Get 10-digit IEC number (same as PAN) via email.
Yes, IEC is mandatory for most import/export transactions.
IEC is valid for lifetime, no renewal needed.
Yes, once issued, you can start import/export immediately.
Visit the official government portal to start your application
Go to Official Portal →