Planning to venture into import or export business from Kerala? One of the first mandatory steps is obtaining an Import Export Code (IEC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce. Whether you’re dealing in spices from Wayanad, seafood from Kochi, or handlooms from Kannur, an IEC is your gateway to global trade. The process has been digitized and simplified, but ensuring all required documents are in place is crucial to avoid delays or rejections.
This blog provides a comprehensive checklist of the key documents required for IEC registration in Kerala, helping entrepreneurs, MSMEs, and exporters file confidently.
Why is IEC Important for Exporters and Importers in Kerala?
IEC is a 10-digit unique code issued by the DGFT, which is mandatory for any person or business wishing to engage in cross-border trade. Without an IEC, no individual or entity can legally export or import goods or services. Kerala, being a coastal state with a thriving trade ecosystem, particularly in agriculture, seafood, textiles, and spices, sees thousands of IEC applications each year.
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Eligibility Criteria for IEC Registration
Anyone – individual, partnership firm, LLP, private limited company, trust, or society – can apply for IEC, provided they are engaged in or intend to engage in international trade of goods or services.
Mandatory Documents for IEC Registration in Kerala
Here’s a detailed list of documents you must gather before applying:
1. PAN Card
A self-attested copy of the applicant’s Permanent Account Number (PAN) is mandatory. In the case of proprietors, the individual’s PAN is used. For companies, the company’s PAN must be submitted.
2. Identity Proof
Any one of the following identity documents must be submitted:
- Aadhar Card
- Passport
- Voter ID
- Driving License
This applies to the proprietor, managing partner, or authorized director signing the application.
3. Address Proof of Business
You need to furnish a proof of the registered office address. Acceptable documents include:
- Electricity Bill (not older than 3 months)
- Telephone/Mobile Bill
- Rent Agreement or Lease Deed (if the premises is rented)
- Property Tax Receipt or Sale Deed (if owned)
4. Cancelled Cheque or Bank Certificate
This serves to validate your business bank account. The cheque should have the entity’s name pre-printed. In its absence, a banker’s certificate on the bank’s letterhead confirming the account details will suffice.
5. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or Aadhaar eSign
IEC applications are submitted online via the DGFT portal and must be signed digitally. For firms and companies, Class 2 or Class 3 DSC is required. Individuals can use Aadhaar eSign if linked with their PAN.
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6. Entity Formation Documents
Depending on your business structure, you may need to upload:
- Partnership Deed for Partnerships
- Certificate of Incorporation for Companies
- Trust Deed or Society Registration Certificate (if applicable)
Optional Documents That Strengthen Your Application
Though not mandatory, these documents can help clarify your business identity or support your case if DGFT raises a query:
- GST Registration Certificate
- Import Export Invoices (if any past transaction exists)
- Trade License from local body
- Udyam Registration Certificate (for MSMEs)
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Document Submission
- Uploading scanned images with unclear text or watermarks
- Mismatch between address in PAN and utility bill
- Expired or outdated utility bills
- Wrong type of DSC used (Class 1 is not acceptable)
Such issues often lead to rejection or show-cause notices, delaying your export plans.
IEC Registration Timelines
Once all documents are submitted accurately, the DGFT usually issues the IEC within 1–3 working days. You’ll receive a soft copy via email and can download it anytime from the DGFT portal.
How OurTaxPartner.com Helps Kerala Businesses
OurTaxPartner.com offers comprehensive IEC registration services tailored for Kerala businesses. Whether you’re from Kochi, Trivandrum, Kozhikode, or any remote part of the state, we provide:
- Document checklist assistance
- Online form preparation
- DSC issuance and e-signature guidance
- Application filing and follow-up with DGFT
- Post-registration support for linking PAN, GST, and modifications
Our end-to-end support ensures your application is filed without errors, and you can focus on growing your export business.
Conclusion
Getting an IEC code is the foundation of international trade for any Kerala-based business. However, success in the application depends greatly on submitting the right documents in the correct format. By following the checklist above and partnering with professionals like OurTaxPartner.com, you can secure your IEC efficiently and begin your global trade journey with confidence.
Start your IEC application today with trusted experts. Click here to get started.
