In today’s regulatory environment, seamless integration between various government-issued identifiers is essential for smooth business operations and full legal compliance. For importers and exporters in Kerala, it is crucial to link the Import Export Code (IEC) with the GSTIN and PAN to avoid delays, mismatches, and non-compliance notices during trade, customs clearance, and DGFT communications.
This guide offers a step-by-step explanation of how to link your IEC with GST and PAN in Kerala, the importance of this linkage, and how expert support from OurTaxPartner.com can help ensure complete trade compliance for your business.
What is IEC and Why Linking It Matters?
The Import Export Code (IEC) is a 10-digit registration number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to individuals or entities engaged in import and export activities. Linking the IEC with your Permanent Account Number (PAN) and GSTIN is important for the following reasons:
- Ensures accuracy in customs declarations and shipping bills
- Facilitates automatic updates in the DGFT portal
- Helps in availing export incentives, refunds, and compliance benefits
- Prevents duplication and inconsistencies in government databases
Failure to link these identifiers can lead to rejection of export claims, delays in shipments, or legal compliance issues with authorities like CBIC and DGFT.
Step-by-Step Process to Link IEC with PAN and GST in Kerala
Step 1: Ensure You Have an Active IEC
If you haven’t obtained an IEC yet, you must apply online via the DGFT portal. If you already have an IEC, make sure your PAN details in the IEC database are accurate and up to date. You can verify your IEC at https://www.dgft.gov.in.
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Step 2: Confirm PAN Validity
The PAN used for IEC must match your business or individual PAN used for income tax and GST. If any mismatch exists between PAN and IEC data, it must be corrected before linking.
Step 3: Register and Log In to DGFT Portal
Visit DGFT portal and create an account or login using your credentials. Use the “IEC Profile Update” feature to link your PAN and GST details under the updated IEC system.
Step 4: Link GSTIN with IEC
Navigate to “IEC Profile Management” in the DGFT portal. Under the ‘GST Details’ section, add your valid GSTIN (registered in Kerala or across India, depending on your branch or HSN-wise turnover). Ensure that:
- GSTIN is active and registered under the same PAN used for IEC
- Business address matches the principal place of business
- Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) codes in GST also apply to your IEC export goods
After entering the details, click ‘Submit’ and wait for the auto-validation to complete. DGFT will then reflect the updated linkage in your IEC dashboard.
For guided support on this process, contact OurTaxPartner.com.
Step 5: Check for Auto-Verification Confirmation
Once submitted, DGFT verifies your GSTIN and PAN with the GSTN database. If all information is consistent, your IEC will be successfully linked to GST and PAN within 24–48 hours. You can download an updated IEC certificate showing linked GSTINs.
Common Issues Faced During IEC-GST-PAN Linking
- Mismatch of legal name or address across documents
- Inactive or cancelled GSTINs being entered
- PAN not updated in IEC or vice versa
- Errors in DGFT portal profile
To avoid such errors and ensure smooth linkage, seek professional help from experts familiar with Kerala’s GST circles and IEC compliance nuances. OurTaxPartner.com offers customized assistance and end-to-end support for IEC linking, amendments, and compliance management.
Why IEC-GST-PAN Linking is Critical for Kerala Exporters
- Mandatory for claiming duty drawback, IGST refunds, and RoDTEP benefits
- Streamlines trade transactions through ICEGATE and DGFT integration
- Helps avoid system-based rejections during customs clearance
- Essential for businesses exporting spices, seafood, coir, and handicrafts from Kerala
OurTaxPartner.com – Trusted IEC Experts in Kerala
Whether you’re a trader in Kochi, exporter in Kozhikode, or a startup in Thiruvananthapuram, OurTaxPartner.com provides reliable support for all aspects of IEC registration, linking, and updates including:
- IEC to GSTIN mapping
- Correction of mismatched PAN records
- Profile update and compliance checks
- Amendment filings on the DGFT portal
Conclusion
Proper linkage of your IEC with PAN and GST is not just a formality—it is a fundamental requirement for smooth, transparent, and compliant trade operations. Businesses in Kerala should act proactively to ensure that their records are properly linked to avoid delays in exports and government benefit claims.
If you’re unsure about the technical steps or facing issues during the update process, get in touch with OurTaxPartner.com today. Our expert team offers prompt, accurate, and end-to-end support for IEC services across Kerala and India.
