It is necessary to obtain IEC code for Import. However, certain categories of importers are exempted from obtaining Import Export Code. The details regarding the categories of importers exempted from obtaining IEC may be seen at Para 2.8 of Handbook of Procedure, Vol.-I on the DGFT website.

No separate Code is required for Import and export and the same IEC can be used for both. Many people have a wrong Idea that a separate IEC code is required, but it is not true. Only one registration is required which is mandatory for the import and export and the same IEC code can be used while importing as well as exporting

IEC code is not required for import or export of goods for personal use. The Import Export Code is mandatory only for commercial purposes and business. One can import or export goods for personal use without any registration requirement.

Those goods, import of which is permitted only with the Permission/ Licence/Authorisation or in accordance with the procedure prescribed in a Public notice/ Notification are termed as ‘Restricted’ items.

The ITC (HS) Code is known as Indian Trade Classification (Harmonised System) Code which was adopted in India for exporting importing operations. An 8 digit ITC (HS) Code is used by the Indian customs for the national trade requirements.

To know the HS code for a product, click on the ‘ITC (HS) based policy’ on the official website of DGFT. An ITC (HS) query form will get open in a new window. Insert the product’s name in the description option o know the HS Code of the product.