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IEC Annual Update and Compliance: What Exporters Must Do

The small yearly step that keeps your shipments moving.
23 September 2026 by
IEC Annual Update and Compliance: What Exporters Must Do
Gaurav Kumar
Import & ExportEligibility & Compliance3 min read
The short answer

Every IEC holder must update or confirm IEC details on the DGFT portal between April and June every year, even with no changes. If not done, the IEC is deactivated and customs will not clear shipments. Changes to address, partners, directors or bank must be modified on the portal promptly.

Annual updateApril to June
Fee for updateNil
If missedIEC deactivated
ChangesOnline modification on DGFT

The annual update

  1. Log in to the DGFT portal.
  2. Open the IEC profile and review details.
  3. Update changes or confirm no change.
  4. Submit with DSC or Aadhaar e-sign.

Modifications

Update the address, partners, directors, branches or bank account whenever they change, so that customs and bank records match.

Linked registrations to maintain

  • ICEGATE registration for customs filings
  • AD code registration at each port
  • RCMC from the relevant export promotion council
  • Product-specific registrations such as APEDA or FSSAI

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Reactivating a deactivated IEC

Complete the pending update on the DGFT portal. Once processed, the IEC becomes active again, but shipments during the inactive period may be held.

Frequently asked questions

Is the IEC annual update mandatory with no changes?

Yes. Even if nothing has changed, the IEC must be confirmed on the DGFT portal during April to June each year.

What happens to shipments if IEC is deactivated?

Customs will not clear goods against a deactivated IEC, so shipments may be held until the IEC is updated and reactivated.

Is there a fee for IEC modification?

Modifications and the annual update are generally free. Check the DGFT portal for any fee on specific services.

Can I surrender my IEC?

Yes. If you no longer import or export, you can surrender the IEC online on the DGFT portal.

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Keep reading

Documents Required for IEC Registration: Checklist
What each type of business uploads on the DGFT portal.