The government fee for an Import Export Code is Rs 500, paid online on the DGFT portal. There is no renewal fee and the annual update is free. Straightforward applications are often approved the same day or within a few working days; delays usually come from mismatched PAN, bank or address details.
What you pay
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| DGFT application fee | Rs 500 |
| DSC (optional) | Only if not using Aadhaar e-sign |
| Professional fee | If you use a consultant |
Timeline
- Portal registration and form filling: under an hour with documents ready
- Payment and submission: same day
- DGFT processing: often same day to a few working days
What causes delays
- Bank account name different from PAN name
- Address proof not matching the declared address
- Unclear uploads
Short on time? Leegal can handle IEC Registration for you, end to end.
Get expert help →Hidden costs to avoid
Missing the April to June annual update deactivates the IEC, which can hold shipments and create demurrage costs. Put it in your compliance calendar.
Frequently asked questions
Do I pay for IEC every year?
No. The Rs 500 fee is one-time. The annual update is free but mandatory.
Is there a fee to modify IEC details?
Modifications are generally free on the DGFT portal. Check the portal for any service-specific charges.
Why do some websites charge much more for IEC?
They add professional fees. The official government fee is only Rs 500.
Can IEC be issued instantly?
Many applications are auto-approved quickly when all details match, but some are reviewed manually and take longer.
Let Leegal handle your IEC Registration
Documentation, filing and follow-up by a dedicated expert, so you can focus on running your business.
- Dedicated point of contact
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