How to Activate IEC Code

An Importer Exporter Code (IEC) is a 10-digit number issued by the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) that is mandatory for businesses engaged in import or export in India. Since July 2020, IECs are allotted in auto-generated digital format and must be activated online before use.

Steps to Activate IEC Code:

1. Visit DGFT Portal:
   Go to the official DGFT website – https://www.dgft.gov.in.
2. Login / Register:
   • Use your registered user ID and password linked to PAN/GSTIN.
   • New users must create an account by selecting “Register” and verifying via OTP.
3. Link IEC:
   After logging in, navigate to ‘IEC Profile Management’ and ensure your IEC is correctly linked to your profile.
4. Update Profile:
   Complete mandatory fields like business details, bank account, branch details, and director/partner details.
5. Submit & Validate:
   Save the form and submit with a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or Aadhaar-based OTP verification.
6. Activation:
   Once verified, the IEC is activated immediately and can be used for import-export transactions.
7. Annual Update Requirement:
   As per DGFT rules, the IEC must be updated/confirmed every year (April–June) to keep it active. Non-updated IECs are automatically deactivated until updated.

👉 In short, activation requires logging into DGFT, updating the IEC profile, and verifying via DSC/OTP.