An IEC or an Import Export Code is a vital business identification number with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) for an entity or an individual in India engaged in international trade. Once the application for IEC is submitted online, it is crucial to track its status to ensure timely approval and avoid delays in commencing import/export operations.
This blog provides a step-by-step guide to checking your IEC application status online through the DGFT portal, along with details on what each status means, common errors, and what to do if your application is stuck or rejected.
Introduction
In today’s global economy, businesses, big or small, are increasingly looking beyond domestic markets. If you want to start importing goods into India or exporting products abroad, one of the first legal steps is to obtain an Import Export Code (IEC). This 10-digit unique code is mandatory under Indian law for any trade-related movement of goods and services across international borders.
The application process for IEC has been made entirely online via the DGFT portal, simplifying procedures and making document handling more efficient. But once the application is submitted, it is important to track its status to know if it has been processed, is under review, or needs further clarification. This saves time and allows quick corrective action if there is an issue.
What is IEC and Why is It Important?
The Import Export Code is a mandatory license for any business or individual in India planning to engage in international trade. Without an IEC, customs clearance cannot take place, and banks won’t process foreign currency transactions related to imports or exports.
Issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), the IEC is –
- A 10-digit code unique to the applicant
- Required for all importers and exporters
- Valid till the lifetime of the entity (unless cancelled or updated)
- Linked with the PAN of the business or individual
Even if you are an e-commerce seller exporting handmade items or digital goods, you still need an IEC to comply with trade laws.
When and Why to Check IEC Application Status?
After submitting an application for a new IEC or for making changes to an existing one (like address or name), it is important to monitor the application status to ensure –
- The DGFT has received and is processing your application
- You have not missed any required documentation or digital signature
- No discrepancies are holding up the approval
- You receive the IEC certificate in time for your business transactions
Usually, the DGFT processes new applications within 1-2 working days, but delays can occur due to system issues, Aadhaar authentication problems, or incorrect information.
Steps to Check IEC Application Status Online
The DGFT portal also provides a convenient process that allows applicants to easily track their IEC application status using either the Application Number or PAN number.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the steps –
Step 1. Visit the DGFT Website
Visit the official portal at https://www.dgft.gov.in/
It is the one-stop portal for all import/export-related services in India, including IEC application, modification & tracking.
Step 2. Navigate to ‘Services’
On the homepage, hover over or click on the “Services” tab and from the dropdown, choose “IEC Profile Management”.
This section is dedicated to all IEC-related operations, including new applications, status checks, modifications, and updates.
Step 3. Click on ‘Know Your Status’
Within the IEC section, click on “Know your IEC Status”. This will open a search form to check the current status of your IEC application.
Step 4. Enter Details to Track Status
You can track the application in one of two ways –
- Using PAN + Name of Entity
- Using File Number (Application Number)
- Select “Search by File Number”
- Enter the 15-digit application reference number received at the time of submission
- Submit the details
Step 5. View Status
After submitting, the system will display one of several status messages such as –
- Under Processing – The application has been received and is being reviewed.
- Approved – Your IEC has been issued; the download link will be active.
- Rejected – The application was not approved due to issues; the reason will be mentioned.
- Awaiting Clarification – Some documents or details are missing; you may be required to resubmit those details.
- Pending Aadhaar Authentication – Aadhaar OTP verification step was incomplete.
- Cancelled – Applicable if you requested IEC cancellation or DGFT cancelled it for non-compliance.
Once approved, the portal allows you to download the IEC certificate directly.
What to do if the IEC Application is Rejected or Delayed?
Sometimes, the application may be rejected or stuck in processing. Here is what you can do –
- Check Reason for Rejection – The portal usually mentions the reason—missing PAN, invalid documents, Aadhaar not verified, etc.
- Reapply or Edit Application – Correct the mistakes and resubmit via the portal.
- Contact DGFT Helpdesk – Raise a grievance under the “Contact Us” or “Help & Support” section.
- Use Chat Support – The DGFT portal also offers a chatbot for quick queries.
For urgent cases, you can also reach out to your regional DGFT office with your application number and documents.
Common Reasons for Application Issues
Here are a few frequent causes of IEC application rejections or processing delays –
- Incorrect PAN number or mismatch with business name
- Uploading unclear or invalid documents
- Failure to complete Aadhaar OTP authentication
- Technical error on the portal (often resolved by logging in again)
- Not signing the application digitally using DSC or Aadhaar e-signature
Making sure that all documents and details are accurate and complete before submission helps avoid rejections.
Tips for a Smooth IEC Application Experience
- Always use the latest browser while accessing the DGFT portal.
- Ensure your Aadhaar is linked, and your mobile number is active for OTP.
- Keep scanned copies of PAN, Aadhaar, business registration, and address proof ready.
- Double-check all fields in the application before final submission.
- Use a valid Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) if applicable.
Conclusion
The Import Export Code is a foundational step for any Indian business entering global markets. While the application process is now entirely online, keeping track of your application status ensures there are no roadblocks in your trade activities. The DGFT portal offers a simple interface to check status, download certificates, or raise issues if any arise.
When you know how and where to check your IEC application’s status online, you can act quickly, correct errors, and make informed progress with your international business. Following the best practices in tracking your IEC status is a small step, but could prove to be very important for your ability to be compliant and trade globally as a manufacturer, trader or e-commerce exporter.
References
https://services.india.gov.in/
