Importer Exporter Code
Import Export (IE) Code is a registration required for persons importing or exporting goods and services from India. IE Code is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industries, Government of India. IE Codes when issued can be used by the entity throughout its existence and doesn't require any renewal or filing. Therefore, it is recommended for most organizations to obtain IE Code, irrespective of if they need it at the moment.
IE Code application must be made to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade along with the necessary supporting documents. Once, the application is submitted, DGFT will issue the IE Code for the entity in 15 - 20 working days or less.
| Private Limited Company | One Person Company | Limited Liability Partnership | Partnership Firm | Proprietorship Firm | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Act | Companies Act, 2013 | Companies Act, 2013 | Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008 | Indian Partnership Act, 1932 | No specified Act |
| Registration Requirement | Mandatory | Mandatory | Mandatory | Optional | no |
| Number of members | 2 – 200 | Only 1 | 2 – Unlimited | 2 – 50 | Only 1 |
| Separate Legal Entity | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Liability Protection | Limited | Limited | Limited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Statutory Audit | Mandatory | Mandatory | Dependent | Not Mandatory | Not Mandatory |
| Ownership Transferability | Restricted | No | Yes | No | No |
| Uninterrupted Existence | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Foreign Participation | Allowed | Not Allowed | Allowed | Not Allowed | Not Allowed |
| Tax Rates | Moderate | Moderate | High | High | Low |
| Statutory Compliances | High | Moderate | Moderate | Less | Less |