Photo Not Required in IE Code Online Application, PAN Card Photo is Sufficient

· IE Code is not an ID, Clarifies DGFT

[DGFT Trade Notice No. 27 dated 28.08.2018]

Subject: Acceptance of new format for IEC.

It is to inform that vide Trade Notice No. 23 dated 08.08.2018, the guidelines for filing online application for Importer Exporter Code Number (IEC) was issued. The provision of photograph of the applicant has been done away with in the new system. However, it is noted that new IEC allottees who have printed their electronic copy of IECs without any photograph on the IECs are facing difficulties in obtaining Registration cum Manufacturers Certificate (RCMCs) from the Export Promotion Councils (EPCs). It has been brought to notice that EPCs are not entertaining the applications for RCMC without photographs on the IEC.

2. In the matter, it is clarified that w.e.f 9.8.2018 Photograph in the IEC has been dispensed with. IEC is now PAN-based system generated code and may no longer be treated as identity card for identity purposes.