01Overview
What is AD Code registration?
AD Code registration is an important step for exporters in India to facilitate export-related banking and customs procedures. An Authorised Dealer (AD) Code is a unique code issued by a bank authorised to handle foreign exchange transactions.
Exporters generally need to register their bank-issued AD Code with the relevant customs location through the prescribed ICEGATE process to facilitate export clearance and related transactions. Proper registration helps businesses manage export documentation and meet applicable customs requirements when shipping goods internationally.
The Import Export Code (IEC) and AD Code serve different purposes: an IEC identifies an eligible importer or exporter, while the AD Code is associated with the authorised bank handling foreign exchange transactions.
02Benefits
Benefits of AD Code registration in India
Registering the bank-issued AD Code with the relevant customs location helps exporters complete applicable customs formalities and manage export-related banking transactions.
Supports international business growth
Helps exporters complete the required customs procedures for eligible export transactions, supporting expansion into global markets.
Facilitates shipping bill processing
Supports electronic shipping bill filing and other export clearance procedures through the applicable ICEGATE system.
Helps manage export proceeds
Connects export transactions with the exporter's banking arrangements, supporting receipt of payments through authorised banking channels.
Supports eligible export benefits
Accurate banking and customs records may be needed for eligible export incentives, duty remission schemes, or GST refunds, subject to each scheme's criteria.
Simplifies customs and banking coordination
Establishes the banking details for an exporter's transactions at the customs location, reducing the likelihood of documentation-related issues.
Helps meet port-specific requirements
Exporters may need to register their AD Code separately at each customs location they export from. Check requirements for the specific port.
03Why Required
Why is AD Code registration required?
AD Code registration helps exporters fulfil important banking and customs requirements associated with exporting goods from India.
- Export customs clearance: Supports the applicable customs formalities for exporting goods.
- Electronic shipping bills: Helps facilitate shipping bill processing at the relevant customs location.
- Bank account verification: Connects the exporter's bank details with the relevant customs records.
- Export payment processing: Supports banking procedures for receiving payments from international buyers.
- Compliance with export procedures: Helps exporters maintain the banking and customs information required under applicable regulations.
- Access to eligible refunds and incentives: Proper documentation may support applications for eligible export-related benefits, subject to scheme-specific rules.
04Documents
Documents required for AD Code registration
Exporters need to provide bank authorisation details and supporting business documents required by the customs location or ICEGATE process. The exact checklist may vary by port, bank, and procedure.
Bank-related documents
3 items- AD Code authorisation letter issued by the authorised dealer bank, in the prescribed format.
- Cancelled cheque or other accepted proof of the exporter's bank account.
- Bank account details matching the exporter's business records.
Business registration documents
4 items- Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT.
- PAN card of the individual or business entity.
- GST registration certificate, where applicable or required.
- Certificate of Incorporation, partnership deed, or other constitution documents, if requested.
Authorisation and application documents
3 items- Request letter from the exporter on business letterhead, where required.
- Authorisation letter for the person handling the application, if applicable.
- Customs broker or customs house agent's supporting letter, if required.
Identity and additional documents
4 items- Identity and address proof of the proprietor, partners, directors, or authorised signatory, where requested.
- Export House Certificate, if applicable.
- Manufacturing licence or other industry-specific licence, if relevant.
- Additional documents requested by the bank or customs authority.
05Process
How to register an AD Code in India
AD Code registration involves obtaining the bank authorisation and registering the bank details with the appropriate customs location through the prescribed process.
Step 1: Check the requirements
Identify the customs location you plan to export from and confirm its AD Code registration requirements.Step 2: Obtain the AD Code letter from your bank
Contact your authorised dealer bank for the AD Code authorisation letter and supporting documents in the required format.Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Arrange your IEC, PAN, bank account proof, business details, and other documents for the application.Step 4: Submit the registration request
Complete the registration through ICEGATE (opens in a new tab) or the relevant customs procedure, with accurate bank and business information.Step 5: Track the application
Monitor the status and respond to any requests for clarification or additional documents.Step 6: Confirm successful registration
Once approved, verify that the AD Code and bank account details are correctly registered for the customs location.
06Portals
Official government portal
The bank-issued AD Code is registered with customs through ICEGATE.
07Why Tax Uncle
How Tax Uncle can help
Whether you are a new exporter or an established business expanding into additional ports, Tax Uncle helps you understand AD Code requirements, prepare the bank documents, and navigate the ICEGATE process.
Documentation assistance
Understand and prepare the documents required for AD Code registration.
Online application guidance
Assistance with the applicable ICEGATE registration and submission process.
Port-specific support
Understand the requirements for registering your AD Code at the relevant customs location.
Application follow-up
Guidance on tracking your application and addressing additional requirements, if any.
Convenient process
Support throughout the process without managing every procedural detail yourself.