As an Indian exporter, it is important to know how to obtain and register your AD Code for hassle-free customs clearance. The AD Code (Authorised Dealer Code) is a 14-digit Authorised Dealer Code number issued by an authorized bank to deal in foreign exchange and needs to be registered with your export port through the DGFT portal. In 2025, the process is completely digital, hence simple and quicker to follow. This guide takes you through the entire process of applying for an AD Code Online via DGFT.
What is an AD Code?
The AD Code is provided by the bank through which your foreign exchange transactions are processed. It makes sure that your export payments are tracked and processed correctly. Without AD Code Registration at the concerned port, your shipping bills cannot be created using the ICEGATE portal, thereby stopping your exports.
Why Register Your AD Code?
Registering your AD Code has several benefits:
- Allows generation of shipping bills on the ICEGATE portal
- Allows smooth foreign currency transactions
- Associates your IEC (Import Export Code) with the export port
- Facilitates customs clearance at the export port
Thus, AD Code Registration with DGFT is a must for all exporters intending to ship goods out of India.
Step-by-Step Guide to Register AD Code Online through DGFT
In 2025, DGFT has made it easy and digital. Exporters can now register AD Code online via DGFT portal.
Step 1: Get AD Code from Your Bank
First of all, go to your bank (authorised dealer in foreign exchange) and submit an application for an AD Code on their letterhead. The bank will provide a 14-digit AD Code linked to your current account, which is for export purposes only.
Ensure the information on the bank’s letter is the same as your Import Export Code (IEC) details.
Step 2: Register/Login on the DGFT Portal
- Go to the official DGFT portal
- Become a registered exporter if you are not already. You will require your IEC, PAN, mobile number, and email ID.
- After registering, log in through your credentials.
Step 3: Go to the AD Code Registration Section
- After logging in, navigate to the “Services” tab of the dashboard.
- Click on “IEC Profile Management” > “View/Update IEC Profile”.
- Find the “Branch Details” or “Bank Details” section.
Step 4: Add AD Code Details
Select the port at which you wish to enter your AD Code (e.g., Nhava Sheva, Chennai, ICD Tughlakabad, etc.).
- Enter the 14-digit AD Code granted by the bank.
- Upload a scanned version of the AD Code letter on the letterhead of the bank.
- You may be required to upload a bank statement or cancelled cheque for verification as well.
- Make sure the AD Code information is identical with your bank letter and IEC.
Step 5: Submit and Pay the Fee
- After filling in the required details, click “Save and Proceed.”
- You will be redirected to a payment gateway. Pay the nominal fee (usually INR 200–500 depending on the port).
- Upon successful payment, a confirmation receipt will be generated.
Step 6: Track Application Status
- You can track the status of your AD Code Registration from the DGFT dashboard under “Submitted Applications.”
- The application is normally done within 2–5 working days.
- On approval, the AD Code will be registered with customs for the concerned port.
Tips to Succeed with AD Code Online Registration through DGFT
- Verify document information: Verify your bank letter, IEC, and DGFT portal inputs exactly the same.
- Latest formats: Banks now have newer formats for 2025. Ensure the letter mentions your IEC, account number, branch IFSC code, and the AD Code.
- Adhere to file format and size specifications: DGFT portal typically accepts PDF or JPG formats, less than 1 MB in size.
- Apply the same AD Code for all ports: Where you export through various ports, you have to register the same AD Code for every port separately through DGFT.
Common Errors to Avoid
- Providing the wrong AD Code or IEC number.
- Posting incomplete or incorrect documents.
- Not checking the port name while registering.
- Not registering for every port individually if exporting from more than one location.
Avoiding these mistakes will make the process of registering your AD Code Online via DGFT smooth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I register the same AD Code for multiple ports?
Yes, but you have to register the same AD Code individually for each port through the DGFT portal.
Q2. How long does it take for approval?
Generally, 2–5 working days are required for DGFT to approve the AD Code registration.
Q3. Do I need to submit documents physically?
No. Since 2021, the process is 100% online. In 2025, physical submission is not needed.
Q4. What if I do not register my AD Code?
You will be unable to create shipping bills at customs, which means you cannot export goods.
Conclusion:
Online Registration of your AD Code through DGFT is a compulsory process for all exporters running businesses in India. The online process provided by DGFT has become quicker and easier in 2025. By adopting the step-by-step process mentioned above and confirming correct document uploading, exporters can efficiently get their AD Code registered and export goods without any delay.
Whether a new exporter or shipping to a new port, having an up-to-date and registered AD Code guarantees efficient customs clearance and continuous export business.
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