IEC Code Status Checker Guide
- Author:
- Manoj Sharma
- Verified by:
- Editorial team
- Published:
- Last modified:
Checks that an IEC is 10 characters long and explains how to check its status on the DGFT website.
What does the IEC Code Status Checker Guide calculate?
| Item | Type | What it means | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| IEC entered | Input | The code typed in, checked for length and allowed characters | Anyone who has an IEC on an invoice or shipping bill |
| Format check | Output | Pass or fail on the 10-character format | Exporters checking for typing errors |
| Length found | Output | Number of characters entered | Exporters correcting a copied code |
| Next step | Output | Pointer to the DGFT service that shows the status | Exporters verifying a buyer or their own code |
How is the IEC Code Status Checker Guide calculation done?
The IEC checker removes spaces, converts letters to capitals and checks that exactly 10 letters or digits remain. It does not contact DGFT and cannot say whether the IEC is active. Status is checked on the DGFT website through the View IEC Related Details service.
Valid format = the entry has exactly 10 letters or digits after spaces are removed
For example, an entry of 'ABCDE1234F' has 10 characters and passes the format check, while 'ABCDE1234' has 9 characters and fails. A pass only means the length is right, not that DGFT issued the code.
How do you use the IEC Code Status Checker Guide?
- Type the IEC into the tool and read the format result.
- Open the DGFT website and go to the View IEC Related Details service.
- Enter the Importer/Exporter Code and the firm name, which DGFT marks as required.
- Read the details DGFT returns and confirm the firm name matches.
- If the status is not as expected, use the IEC profile management options on DGFT.
What does your result mean?
A pass means the typed code has 10 characters. It does not mean the code is active, valid for the firm or free of suspension. Only the DGFT service shows the details held on record. A fail usually points to a typing or copying error.
- Pass: Length is 10 characters, so go on to check on DGFT.
- Fail: Recheck the code on the certificate or invoice.
- DGFT result: The authoritative view of the IEC and firm details.
- Mismatch: If the firm name differs, confirm the code with the holder.
What does the IEC Code Status Checker Guide assume, and what does it not cover?
- Format only: The tool tests length and characters, with no connection to DGFT.
- Not covered: Active, suspended or cancelled status, and the firm name linked to the code.
- PAN link: DGFT states the IEC issued is the same as the firm's PAN, though it is issued separately on application.
- Pattern: A PAN-style letter and digit pattern is not enforced, as it was not confirmed on a DGFT page.
What do people get wrong when calculating this?
- Format as status: Treating a passed format check as proof the IEC is active.
- Extra characters: Adding spaces or hyphens when copying.
- Wrong name: Entering a trade name where DGFT expects the registered firm name.
- Old copy: Relying on an old certificate copy without checking the DGFT record.
Which rules should you know about this?
DGFT issues the IEC and provides the View IEC Related Details service, which asks for the code and the firm name. DGFT also states that the IEC issued is the same as the firm's PAN. See the related pages on applying for and using an IEC.
Related guides: how to apply for iec code, what is iec code, iec code for freelancers.
How did we verify this?
Every rule and fee is linked to its official or first-party source below with the date it was checked. The full method is on the methodology page.
- DGFT IEC status and details service, Enter Importer/Exporter Code and Firm Name (both required) (checked 9 Oct 2026)
- DGFT IEC profile management, Consequent upon introduction of GST, IEC being issued is the same as the PAN of the firm. However, the IEC will still be separately issued by DGFT based on an application. (checked 9 Oct 2026)
Frequently asked questions
How can the status of an IEC be checked on the DGFT website?
The DGFT website offers a View IEC Related Details service. It asks for the Importer/Exporter Code and the firm name, both marked as required. Enter both exactly as registered and read the details shown. The firm name should match the registration record.
Does the IEC code checker confirm that an IEC is active?
The IEC code checker only confirms the 10-character format. It makes no call to DGFT, so it cannot confirm that the code is active, suspended or cancelled. Use the DGFT service for status. A passed format check is only a first step before the DGFT lookup.
Is the IEC the same as the PAN?
DGFT states that, after the introduction of GST, the IEC issued is the same as the PAN of the firm. DGFT also says the IEC is still issued separately on application, so having a PAN does not by itself give an IEC. Check the IEC certificate for the code actually issued.
What does a failed format check on an IEC mean?
A failed check means the entry is not 10 characters after spaces are removed. This is usually a typing or copy error. Compare the code with the IEC certificate before searching again on DGFT. Retyping the code by hand rather than pasting often removes hidden characters.
Why does the DGFT IEC lookup ask for the firm name?
The DGFT View IEC Related Details form lists the firm name as a required field with a minimum of three characters. It is entered along with the code, so keep the registered name from the certificate at hand. Check the official page again before each filing, since details can change over time and the tool does not update itself.