The Import Export Code (IEC) is an essential identification number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) for any person or entity involved in import or export in India. While obtaining an IEC is mandatory to begin cross-border trade, there may come a time when a business wishes to cancel or surrender it — especially in cases of business closure, change in business structure, or discontinuation of export-import activities.
This blog explains the step-by-step process to cancel or surrender your IEC online in India, the required documents, and legal implications. If you’re in Kerala or anywhere in India and looking for assistance, OurTaxPartner.com offers expert help for IEC surrender and other DGFT-related services.
When Should You Cancel or Surrender Your IEC?
You may consider canceling or surrendering your Import Export Code in the following situations:
- Your business has permanently ceased all import-export operations.
- You are closing your company or converting it into another legal entity (e.g., Proprietorship to Private Limited).
- You obtained the IEC mistakenly or no longer intend to use it.
- There is a DGFT directive requiring surrender due to duplication or misrepresentation.
Who Can Apply for IEC Cancellation?
The IEC surrender application must be made by the authorized signatory of the business — such as the Proprietor, Managing Director, Partner, or Authorised Representative. The IEC holder should ensure that no pending export incentives or dues are left before surrendering the code.
Steps to Cancel or Surrender IEC in India
The process to surrender an IEC is entirely online and needs to be carried out on the DGFT portal. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Step 1: Log in to DGFT Portal
Go to www.dgft.gov.in and log in using your business credentials linked to your IEC. If you haven’t registered the IEC on the new DGFT portal, do so first.
Step 2: Navigate to ‘IEC Services’
After logging in, go to the “Services” section and choose “IEC Profile Management”. You’ll find an option called “Surrender IEC” or “Request for Deactivation”.
Step 3: Fill the Surrender Form
Fill out the surrender form with your IEC number, reason for surrender, and other business details. Ensure that you select the correct reason for deactivation to avoid rejection or follow-ups from the DGFT.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
You will need to upload relevant documents (see list below). Make sure all documents are clearly scanned and in PDF format.
Step 5: Submit with DSC or Aadhaar e-Sign
The final step involves digitally signing the form using either a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or Aadhaar-based e-signature. Submission without a valid signature will be rejected by the portal.
Step 6: Acknowledgment and Confirmation
Once submitted, you will receive an acknowledgment reference number. You can track the status of your application on the portal. The DGFT will review your request and deactivate the IEC permanently if found compliant.
For guided support and filing, visit OurTaxPartner – IEC Services.
Documents Required for IEC Surrender
- Request letter for surrender on company letterhead (signed by authorised person)
- Copy of IEC certificate
- Board resolution (for companies) authorizing surrender (if applicable)
- Proof of closure (if business is dissolved or converted)
- Declaration confirming no pending liabilities or government claims
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or Aadhaar of authorised person
Points to Keep in Mind Before Surrendering IEC
Before proceeding, you should consider the following:
- Once surrendered, the IEC becomes invalid and cannot be used again.
- You must ensure that all pending shipments, export benefits, and DGFT formalities are cleared.
- IEC deactivation is permanent; if needed again in future, you’ll have to apply afresh.
- Deactivation details will be updated across government databases, including the Customs ICEGATE portal.
Why Choose OurTaxPartner.com for IEC Surrender?
If you’re looking to avoid the hassle and technical steps involved in IEC cancellation, our team at OurTaxPartner.com provides:
- End-to-end handling of IEC surrender filings
- Documentation preparation and format support
- DSC support and e-sign execution assistance
- Same-day processing in most cases
- Post-surrender confirmation follow-up with DGFT
Whether you’re based in Kochi, Trivandrum, Kozhikode, or any part of Kerala or India, our remote services help you complete the IEC surrender process without ever visiting a DGFT office.
Conclusion
Cancelling or surrendering your IEC is a straightforward but critical legal procedure when winding down import-export operations. Ensuring that it’s done properly and that documentation is accurate will help avoid future compliance issues.
Need help with IEC cancellation in India? Let experts handle it for you. Visit OurTaxPartner.com – IEC Services and submit your request today.
