Introduction
Looking to start importing or exporting goods from Bihar? The first step is obtaining the right licence — the import export license in Bihar. Without it, you simply can’t legally trade internationally. This guide breaks down everything you need to know: what the licence is, how to apply, required documents, costs, common pitfalls, and how you can get started smoothly. Whether you’re a small business or an aspiring exporter, read on to learn how to get your IEC and unlock global markets.
What Is the Import Export License in Bihar?
The “import export license” in India typically refers to the Importer Exporter Code (IEC) — a mandatory 10-digit code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Government of India.
In Bihar, as elsewhere in India, this licence is required for any business or individual who wants to import or export goods (and in many cases services) internationally.
Without IEC, customs authorities, banks, and regulatory bodies will not allow legal import/export — making this licence a foundational requirement for global trade
Who Can Apply for IEC in Bihar?
A wide variety of entities and individuals can apply for the import export license in Bihar:
Proprietorship firms (sole proprietors)
Partnership firms and LLPs (Limited Liability Partnerships)
Private Limited Companies / Public Limited Companies
Other entities like HUFs, NGOs, Trusts — depending on business nature & compliance
If you plan to import or export goods (or certain services), you need IEC.
Documents & Requirements for Import Export License in Bihar
Here’s a breakdown of the key documents and prerequisites needed for IEC application in Bihar:
PAN card of the individual, firm, or company.
Identity proof (e.g., Aadhaar, passport, voter ID) and address proof (utility bill, rental agreement, etc.) of proprietors / partners / directors.
Proof of business registration — e.g., Certificate of Incorporation for companies, Partnership Deed for partnerships, LLP Agreement etc.
Bank proof: a cancelled cheque or a bank certificate with account details. Address proof of business location (electricity bill, rental agreement, etc.).
Passport-size photos and sometimes board resolution (for companies) or authorization proof of signatories.
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) may be required if applying for companies or online filing.
How to Apply for Import Export License (IEC) in Bihar — Step-by-Step
Here’s the typical process for getting your import export license in Bihar:
Visit the DGFT portal — all IEC applications are now filed online.
Fill out the application form (ANF-2A) — provide your PAN, business details, bank info, address, etc.
Upload required documents — scanned copies of PAN, identity and address proofs, bank proof, business registration papers, photo, etc.
Pay the government fee — currently, the IEC registration fee is ₹500.
Submit and wait for verification — DGFT reviews your application; if everything is in order, you receive your IEC (often within 1–3 days).
Download IEC certificate — once approved, you get a soft copy of your 10-digit IEC code.
Cost & Validity of IEC in Bihar
Fee: The standard government fee for IEC registration is ₹500.
Lifetime Validity: Once issued, the import export license (IEC) remains valid for lifetime — no renewal is required.
Annual Update (optional but recommended): Some sources mention periodic confirmation or updates of IEC information, depending on DGFT advisories.
Benefits of Holding an Import Export License in Bihar
Having a valid IEC (import export license) brings many benefits for your business:
Legal sanction to import/export goods — Without IEC, you cannot trade internationally.
Smooth customs clearance — Customs authorities need IEC for processing shipments.
Bank compliance — Banks require IEC for foreign currency transactions, payments, and receipt of export proceeds.
Access to export incentives, subsidies, and government schemes — Export-import benefit schemes often require valid IEC.
Credibility & trust — Having IEC adds professionalism and legitimacy to your business when dealing with international partners.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Import Export License in Bihar
Even though the process is straightforward, many applicants make avoidable mistakes which cause delays or rejection:
Submitting inconsistent or mismatched documents (e.g., address doesn’t match PAN or bank proof)
Incorrectly filling the ANF-2A form or missing mandatory fields
Failing to upload proper bank proof or business registration documents
Attempting to get more than one IEC for the same PAN — only one IEC per PAN is allowed.
Not maintaining digital signature or forgetting to sign the form (when required)
Tips for Applicants in Bihar (Especially Smaller Towns)
If you are based in Bihar (especially outside major cities), here are some practical tips:
Ensure you have scanned, clear copies of all documents (PAN, Aadhaar, bank passbook, address proof), preferably in PDF.
Use correct and consistent address details — mismatched info is a common cause of rejection.
If you’re not familiar with the process — consider using a trusted consultant or service provider to avoid delays.
Keep a digital signature (DSC) ready if you are applying as company/LLP — this helps speed up approval.
Once IEC is issued, save the soft copy carefully. It’s valid for lifetime, but lost copies may require application for duplicate.
When an Import Export License (IEC) Is Not Required
There are some situations where IEC may not be mandatory:
If you’re importing/exporting purely for personal, non-commercial use (not for business).
Government departments, notified charitable institutions may be exempt (depending on regulation).
For small cross-border consignments under certain threshold (especially in special border trade zones) — though such specifics depend on border-region customs rules. turn0search14
However — if your intention is business, trading, or export/import for profit — you must have a valid IEC.
Conclusion & What You Should Do Next
If you’re serious about importing or exporting goods from Bihar — don’t delay. Securing your import export license in Bihar (IEC) is the foundational step for legal compliance and business growth. The process is simple, the cost is minimal (₹500), and validity is lifetime — so there is no reason to hesitate
FAQ: Import Export License in Bihar (IEC)
Q1. What is the cost of getting an import export license (IEC) in Bihar?
A: The government fee for IEC registration is ₹500.
Q2. How long is the IEC valid?
A: The IEC is valid for a lifetime once issued. No renewal is required.
Q3. How many IECs can one person or entity have?
A: One PAN = one IEC. You cannot legally have more than one IEC for the same PAN.
Q4. What if my business is a small firm from a small town in Bihar — can I still apply?
A: Yes. IEC application is entirely online via DGFT portal. As long as you have required documents you can apply from anywhere.
Q5. Is IEC mandatory for all imports/exports?
A: Yes — for commercial import/export of goods. For purely personal use or for certain exempted categories (like government, charitable institutions), IEC may not be mandatory.