For entrepreneurs and businesses in Kerala looking to expand into international markets, obtaining an Import Export Code (IEC) is the first critical step. Whether you’re exporting spices, handicrafts, marine products, or importing raw materials and equipment, an IEC issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is mandatory. Thanks to digitization, the DGFT now offers a fully online portal for IEC registration, modification, and filing—simplifying the process significantly for Kerala-based traders.
In this blog, we’ll explore how the DGFT portal works, how to register and manage your IEC through it, and why expert assistance can be a game-changer. If you’re ready to start or update your IEC, OurTaxPartner.com offers full support for businesses across Kerala.
What is the DGFT Portal?
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is responsible for regulating and facilitating foreign trade in India. The DGFT portal (https://dgft.gov.in) is a centralized digital platform where businesses can:
- Apply for IEC registration
- Amend existing IEC details
- Track IEC status
- Manage online transactions related to foreign trade
- Access trade notifications, FTP policies, and licensing applications
The platform has been upgraded to integrate with the Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE), making it easier to verify IECs, view shipping bills, and handle export/import documentation digitally.
Who Needs IEC Registration in Kerala?
IEC is mandatory for the following entities in Kerala involved in cross-border trade:
- Manufacturers exporting goods from Kerala (e.g., coir, spices, seafood)
- Retailers importing finished products or parts
- Freight forwarding agents and shipping companies
- Traders and merchants dealing with e-commerce exports
- Service exporters such as software, tourism, and education providers
Even freelancers or individuals exporting digital services may require IEC in certain cases, especially when payments are routed through foreign exchange channels.
Step-by-Step Process for IEC Registration via DGFT Portal
Step 1: Visit the DGFT Portal
Go to https://dgft.gov.in. Register as a user using your business PAN and mobile/email authentication. This PAN will also serve as the IEC number once allotted.
Step 2: Login and Choose ‘Apply for IEC’
After registration, log in to the portal and navigate to the “Apply for IEC” section under the ‘Services’ tab.
Step 3: Fill in IEC Application Form
Provide the following details:
- Business name, address, and contact details
- PAN and entity type (proprietorship, partnership, LLP, etc.)
- Bank account details (with a cancelled cheque)
- Details of directors or partners
- Digital signature or Aadhaar-based e-verification
Step 4: Submit Application with Fee
A nominal fee (₹500) is charged for IEC registration. Payments can be made online via UPI, debit/credit card, or net banking.
Step 5: Download the IEC Certificate
Upon successful submission and verification, the IEC certificate is generated immediately. You can download it from your user dashboard. The same PAN becomes your unique 10-digit IEC number.
If you need guided help, documentation support, or error resolution during this process, the experts at OurTaxPartner.com can manage the end-to-end filing for you.
Post-Registration Compliance via DGFT Portal
Once you receive your IEC, the DGFT portal also helps you manage ongoing compliance:
- Annual Updates: IEC details must be updated/confirmed every year between April and June—even if there are no changes.
- Amendments: Any change in business address, bank account, directors, or legal entity must be updated through the portal.
- Deactivation/Reactivation: IECs not updated annually are subject to deactivation. Businesses can reactivate through the portal.
- Integration with Customs: Your IEC is linked to ICEGATE for customs filings, export clearances, and GST validation.
Documents Required for IEC Registration
Prepare the following documents in digital format before applying:
- PAN card of business entity or proprietor
- Cancelled cheque or bank certificate
- Address proof (electricity bill, rent agreement, etc.)
- Digital signature certificate (DSC) or Aadhaar e-verification for authentication
For assistance in document collection, error fixing, or DSC validation, OurTaxPartner.com provides personalized support.
Common Mistakes to Avoid on DGFT Portal
- Mismatch between PAN and business name
- Uploading incorrect or outdated documents
- Missing annual IEC update leading to deactivation
- Not linking bank details with GSTIN (if applicable)
- Using wrong DSC type or expired DSC
Such mistakes can delay your exports or cause issues with customs clearance. It’s advisable to consult with professionals who handle DGFT compliance regularly.
How OurTaxPartner.com Helps Kerala Exporters
OurTaxPartner.com is a trusted consultancy offering IEC registration and DGFT compliance support to businesses across Kerala. Services include:
- New IEC registration through DGFT portal
- Annual update and amendment filing
- DSC-based authentication setup
- Linking IEC with GSTIN and Customs (ICEGATE)
- Support with error resolution and portal-based queries
Whether you’re exporting from Kochi, Kozhikode, Alappuzha, or Thiruvananthapuram, their remote support services can help you register from anywhere in Kerala with ease.
Conclusion
The DGFT portal has made it easier than ever to enter the global trade landscape from Kerala. However, proper understanding and correct usage of the portal are essential for smooth, legally compliant operations. With an IEC in hand, your business becomes eligible to engage in international trade, receive foreign payments, and access export-related incentives.
Need expert help to get started? Visit www.ourtaxpartner.com/registration-service/import-export-code/ and let the professionals take care of your IEC registration and DGFT compliance.
