AD Code Registration Online in India

What is AD Code Registration?

An AD Code, short for Authorized Dealer Code, is a distinct 14-digit number issued by a bank authorized by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to handle foreign exchange transactions. Such banks are known as Authorised Dealers.

This code uniquely identifies businesses engaged in import and export operations. It must be formally submitted to the Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE) at the designated port, a crucial step known as AD Code registration for any business involved in international trade within India.

Why is it Required?

• Customs Clearance: Without a registered AD Code, you cannot create a shipping bill, which is essential for customs to clear your goods for export.
• Foreign Exchange Tracking: The AD Code helps track all foreign exchange transactions related to your import and export activities, ensuring compliance with FEMA and RBI rules.

Benefits of AD Code Registration

Registering your AD Code offers many benefits for businesses involved in foreign trade:

• Government Benefits: Key to getting various export incentives and schemes like GST refunds, duty drawbacks, RoSCTL, and RoDTEP.
• Faster Customs Clearance: Your goods pass through ports quickly without delays.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensures compliance with FEMA, RBI, and DGFT rules.
• Clear Money Records: Keeps a clear record of foreign currency transactions, reducing reconciliation errors.
• Easy Foreign Payments: Makes it easier to send and receive international payments.

Documents Required for AD Code Registration

To register your AD Code, you will generally need these documents:

• AD Code Letter: The original AD Code letter from your bank on their letterhead.
• Import-Export Code (IEC) Certificate: A copy of your IEC.
• PAN Card: A copy of your company's PAN card or the proprietor's PAN card.
• GST Registration Certificate: If your business is registered for GST.
• Bank Account Proof: A cancelled cheque from your business's current account.
• Company's Letterhead: A request letter to the bank.
• Board Resolution: For companies, approving the AD Code application.
• Identity and Address Proof: For authorized persons/directors/partners.
• Class 3 DSC: Required for submitting information online on the ICEGATE portal.

How to Register AD Code in India?

The AD Code registration process typically has two main parts:

Part 1: Getting AD Code from your Bank

1. Open a Current Account: With an RBI-authorized bank handling foreign exchange.
2. Request Letter: Submit a formal request letter to your bank manager along with required documents.
3. Bank Issues AD Code: The bank will issue a 14-digit AD Code on their official letterhead.

Part 2: Registering AD Code with Customs (ICEGATE Portal)

1. Go to ICEGATE Portal: Log in using your IEC credentials and Class 3 DSC.
2. Find AD Code Registration: Look for "Bank Account Management" or "AD Code Registration".
3. Enter Details: Enter the AD Code details exactly as provided by your bank.
4. Upload Documents: Upload clear scanned copies of the AD Code letter, IEC, PAN, and GST certificate.
5. Submit: Submit the application. Once approved by a customs officer, your AD Code will be linked to your IEC.

AD Code Registration Fees

The AD Code registration fee is usually around Rs. 2,999 as a one-time payment for professional services. There is no official government fee charged by the Customs Department for AD Code registration on the ICEGATE portal.

Timeline: Once documents are submitted correctly, the AD Code is usually registered on ICEGATE within 2–3 working days.