How long is IEC valid?

An Import Export Code (IEC), issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), is valid for a lifetime and does not require renewal in the traditional sense. Once obtained, it remains valid for as long as the business or individual continues operations. This makes the IEC a one-time registration that allows importers and exporters to legally conduct cross-border trade without worrying about expiry.

However, since 2021, DGFT has made it mandatory to update IEC details annually. Between April and June of every financial year, IEC holders must log in to the DGFT portal and either confirm that their details remain the same or make necessary modifications. This process is known as IEC Annual Updation.

If the IEC holder fails to complete this process, the IEC will be deactivated. While deactivation does not mean permanent cancellation, it prevents you from using the IEC for import-export transactions until it is updated and reactivated on the portal. Reactivation is simple—once the details are updated, DGFT revalidates the code.

In summary, IEC is valid for life and never expires, but to keep it active and usable, you must comply with the annual updation requirement. This ensures your code stays current, avoids trade disruptions, and keeps you compliant with DGFT regulations.