GLOBAL SELLING BLOG
How to verify IEC code (Importer Exporter Code) online: A guide
An IEC certificate allows individuals to import and export to international marketplaces. In this blog, learn how to verify the Importer Exporter Code online.
In international trade, verifying your business partner is as vital as the transaction you’re entering. For this reason, Importer Exporter Code (IEC) verification has become a mandatory checkpoint for anyone dealing with Indian exporters or importers. Ensuring the accuracy of an IEC code verification protects against fraud, delays, and compliance penalties.
This blog breaks down everything about IEC online verification — from what it means to how to check it using the DGFT portal. You’ll also learn the benefits of importer exporter code verification, what the status types indicate, and how to verify IEC codes using a step-by-step process.
This blog breaks down everything about IEC online verification — from what it means to how to check it using the DGFT portal. You’ll also learn the benefits of importer exporter code verification, what the status types indicate, and how to verify IEC codes using a step-by-step process.
What is IEC verification?
IEC verification refers to the process of checking the authenticity and current status of a registered Importer Exporter Code with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). It confirms whether an IEC is active, suspended, or deactivated and validates the associated entity’s name, PAN, and other key details.
The IEC is a 10-digit code issued to exporters and importers in India under the Foreign Trade Policy. It is required for customs clearance and remittance of foreign currency. IEC code verification ensures the code is valid and matches the business credentials.1
The IEC is a 10-digit code issued to exporters and importers in India under the Foreign Trade Policy. It is required for customs clearance and remittance of foreign currency. IEC code verification ensures the code is valid and matches the business credentials.1
Why is IEC verification important?
With rising incidents of identity theft, GST fraud, and export scams, businesses are advised to routinely verify the IECs of their suppliers or clients. Here’s why IEC online verification plays a vital role:
● It ensures compliance with government regulations
● Verifies the legitimacy of trading partners
● Prevents fraud in international transactions
● Facilitates smooth customs and port clearance
● Helps avoid shipment delays due to suspended or incorrect codes
In addition, the Importer Exporter Code verification enables exporters to avoid penalties from banks, customs, or DGFT authorities due to discrepancies in IEC data.2
How to verify IEC online: A step-by-step guide
To prevent importers and exporters from initiating separate registrations, the DGFT and the Customs department (ICEGATE) have created a unified process to smoothen cross-border trade.
Step 1: Visit the official DGFT website
Go to https://dgft.gov.in/, the official website of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade. Use only the secure link to avoid unofficial sites.
Step 2: Navigate to ‘View IEC’ section
On the homepage, click on the ‘Services’ tab in the top navigation menu. From the drop-down list, select ‘IEC Profile Management’ and then click on ‘View IEC Status.’ This will direct you to the IEC verification interface.
Step 3: Enter IEC number or PAN
On the verification screen, enter your 10-digit IEC number or linked PAN. Select the appropriate document type and fill in the CAPTCHA code.
Step 4: Click ‘Submit’ to check status
Click Submit to generate the IEC status. The screen will display details such as the IEC holder’s name, status (Active, Inactive, or Rejected), date of issue, and linked PAN.
Step 5: Download or take a screenshot (optional)
While there’s no direct download, you can take a screenshot or save the page as PDF for recordkeeping or internal verification purposes.
Step 6: IEC reactivation or correction
If the status is inactive or shows incorrect details, log in to your DGFT account and update the IEC profile. Use the Update IEC option to submit the correct details along with any required documents. After approval, verify again using the steps above.3
Types of statuses of IEC Code verification
When verifying an IEC online, the DGFT portal may display one of the following statuses. Here’s what each status means and what needs to be done.
Status
What it means
What to do
Active
IEC is valid and can be used for exports/imports.
No action needed. Just keep the details updated.
Inactive
IEC hasn’t been updated under the new DGFT system.
Log in to the DGFT portal, update your IEC, and reactivate it.
Rejected
IEC has not been accepted by DGFT.
Correct any mistakes or missing details and apply for a new IEC with updated documents.
Pending for update
An update request is in process and not yet approved.
Wait for approval or log in to check the status. Make sure all submitted info is correct.
Under scrutiny
IEC is under review by DGFT for further checks.
Respond to DGFT requests, upload any required documents, and follow up as needed.4
Benefits of IEC verification
IEC code verification offers several key benefits to both exporters and compliance teams:
● Fraud prevention: Identifies fraudulent entities or inactive IECs.
● Regulatory assurance: Ensures legal compliance with DGFT norms.
● Ease of trade: Minimizes port or customs-related delays.
● Accurate record-keeping: Ensures PAN, GST, and IEC records match.
● Bank transactions: Required for smooth forex remittance and bank verifications.
For Indian exporters using e-commerce exports programs like Amazon Global Selling, IEC online verification is a necessary step in listing and fulfilling global orders.
Common IEC verification issues and their fixes
Exporters often encounter errors during the IEC verification process. Here’s how to fix them:
• ‘IEC Not Found’ Error:
Cause: Incorrect IEC number or PAN entry.
Fix: Double-check credentials and enter the correct 10 digits again. If the issue persists, check with DGFT to see if your IEC is deactivated.
• Inactive IEC:
Cause: The IEC has not been updated under the new DGFT system.
Fix: Log in to the DGFT portal and update your IEC details to reactivate.
• CAPTCHA not loading:
Cause: Browser compatibility or slow internet.
Fix: Clear cache or switch to a different browser.
• Mismatched PAN:
Cause: PAN and IEC are not mapped correctly.
Fix: Validate PAN on the DGFT portal and update IEC profile.6
For persistent issues, exporters can raise a support ticket with DGFT or contact the nearest regional office.
Conclusion
IEC verification is more than a regulatory formality. It is a risk management and compliance best practice for any importer or exporter in India. As global trade becomes increasingly digital and regulated, having verified IEC details streamlines documentation, banking, and logistics processes.
E-commerce export programs like Amazon Global Selling provide robust infrastructure and support for international selling.
E-commerce export programs like Amazon Global Selling provide robust infrastructure and support for international selling.
Amazon Global Selling: Easy e-commerce exports and hassle-free shipping
If you are a business owner and you want to sell your products to the world, Amazon Global Selling enables you to list and sell ‘Made in India’ products on 18 Amazon global marketplaces. As an e-commerce export program, Amazon Global Selling provides support and guidance at every step of your export journey, connecting you to Amazon’s Service Provider Network for tailored compliance, payments, and logistics support.
Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfillment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.
Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfillment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I check my IEC online?
Applicants can check the current status of their IEC application and transmission to ICEGATE on the DGFT and ICEGATE websites. There are two ways to do that:
● A PAN-based IEC check to ensure the IEC is registered with DGFT on the DGFT website.
● Use the ICEGATE portal to enter the IEC and check the status of the application and transmission from the DGFT website.
● A PAN-based IEC check to ensure the IEC is registered with DGFT on the DGFT website.
● Use the ICEGATE portal to enter the IEC and check the status of the application and transmission from the DGFT website.
2. How do I check if my IEC certificate is valid?
The DGFT office generates and aggregates PAN-based IEC at the DGFT headquarters. You can use the Check IE code/BIN Status portal to verify the validity of your IEC certificate.
3. Does the IEC code expire?
IEC comes with a lifetime validity once issued by the DGFT.
4. How can I get a copy of IEC online?
You can get a copy of your IEC certificate online by entering your details on the IEC Profile Management section of the DGFT website.
5. What happens if someone does not verify the IEC?
If the IEC is not verified, the exporter may face customs clearance delays, rejection of shipping documents, or denial of foreign currency transactions. It also increases the risk of dealing with fraudulent or inactive IECs.
Published on August 29, 2022.
Updated on September 08, 2025.
Sources:
1. https://www.xflowpay.com/blog/iec-code-verification
2. https://www.bajajfinserv.in/iec-code-verification
3. https://www.skydo.com/blog/iec-code-verification-online
4. https://www.mygstrefund.com/blog/verify-iec-online/
5. https://www.skydo.com/blog/iec-code-verification-online#what-are-the-benefits-of-iec-code-verification
6. https://afleo.com/how-to-verify-iec-code-online-step-by-step-guide/
Updated on September 08, 2025.
Sources:
1. https://www.xflowpay.com/blog/iec-code-verification
2. https://www.bajajfinserv.in/iec-code-verification
3. https://www.skydo.com/blog/iec-code-verification-online
4. https://www.mygstrefund.com/blog/verify-iec-online/
5. https://www.skydo.com/blog/iec-code-verification-online#what-are-the-benefits-of-iec-code-verification
6. https://afleo.com/how-to-verify-iec-code-online-step-by-step-guide/
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