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What Is an AD Code?

An AD Code, or Authorised Dealer Code, is a unique code given by your authorised dealer bank to a business that does international trade. It links your bank to your export-import transactions, so that foreign exchange payments can be traced and processed in line with regulations. The code is needed for payments linked to imports and exports, and for customs clearance.

Each AD Code is linked to your IEC (Import Export Code), and it is registered at the Customs port from where you ship goods, through ICEGATE.

Why Is the AD Code Important?

Exporters and importers need a valid AD Code to clear goods through Customs. Without it, shipping bills and bills of entry cannot be processed at Indian ports. It also helps the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) monitor foreign exchange inflows and outflows under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), and it supports smooth access to government export benefits.

  • Exports: You quote your AD Code on shipping bills and export documents, and your bank uses it to credit export proceeds in foreign currency to your account.
  • Imports: You quote it on bills of entry, and your bank uses it to track payments to overseas suppliers.
  • Link with IEC: It ties your banking details to your IEC, so that trade transactions can be traced.
  • FEMA compliance: Under FEMA, 1999, trade transactions must be routed through authorised banks, and the AD Code supports this.
  • Smooth banking: Without an AD Code, forex transactions may face delays or rejection by the bank.
  • Cleaner documents: It standardises bank details on shipping bills and invoices, which reduces errors during clearance.
AD Code registration online India authorised dealer

Key Topic Index

AD Code registration topic index

Advantages of the AD Code for Importers and Exporters

  • Smooth customs clearance: You can file shipping bills and customs documents without errors or rejections.
  • Regulatory compliance: You follow Customs and RBI rules when you transact in foreign currency.
  • Export benefits: It supports claiming benefits such as duty drawback and GST refunds. Also see IFSC (bank account) registration on ICEGATE.
  • Timely payments: Export proceeds reach your bank account in an easy and secure way.
  • Electronic filing: Along with ICEGATE registration, it lets you file export and import documents online.
AD Code registration benefits for exporters and importers India

AD Code Registration – Step-by-Step Process

AD Code registration process step by step India
  • Step 1: Choose your authorised dealer bank.
    Start with the bank where you hold your business current account, if the RBI permits it to handle foreign exchange transactions.
  • Step 2: Submit the application and documents.
    Get the AD Code application from your bank, fill it in and submit it with your IEC, PAN, GST certificate, bank account details and business registration proof.
  • Step 3: Bank verification and AD Code letter.
    After verification, the bank issues your AD Code letter.
  • Step 4: Register the AD Code on ICEGATE.
    Register the AD Code at the Customs port(s) where you ship goods, through the ICEGATE portal, so you can file electronically and clear goods.

Formats and procedures can change, and they differ slightly from bank to bank. Make Merchant confirms the latest requirements for your bank and port before filing.

Documents Required for AD Code Registration

Generally, you need the following documents:

  • Import Export Code (IEC)
  • PAN card of the business or proprietor
  • GST registration certificate
  • Bank account details or certificate from the authorised dealer bank
  • Business registration or incorporation certificate
  • Address proof of the business
  • Passport-size photographs of authorised signatories
  • ID proofs such as Aadhaar, Voter ID or Passport of owners or directors

The exact documents may vary depending on your bank's requirements.

Documents required for AD Code registration India

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Registering the AD Code at one port but shipping from another.
  • Details in the bank letter not matching your IEC, such as name or address.
  • Not registering the AD Code again after changing your bank.
  • Forgetting to register your bank account (IFSC) for drawback and refunds.
  • Filing with an expired DSC or an inactive ICEGATE account.

AD Code Registration Fees

Make Merchant's AD Code registration service starts from ₹1,499. It covers guidance on documents, coordination with your bank and registration of the AD Code on ICEGATE. Any charges of the bank or other third parties are separate, and we tell you the total upfront with no hidden fees.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on AD Code Registration

An AD Code (Authorised Dealer Code) is a unique code issued by your authorised dealer bank to an exporter or importer. It links your bank to your export-import transactions and is needed for customs clearance and foreign exchange compliance.

Yes. An AD Code is needed to file shipping bills and bills of entry and to clear goods at Indian ports. It also helps banks and the RBI track foreign exchange transactions under FEMA.

Usually your IEC, PAN, GST registration, bank account details or certificate, business registration proof, address proof and ID proof of the owners or directors. The exact list depends on your bank.

After the bank gives you the AD Code letter, you register the AD Code at the Customs port where you ship goods, through ICEGATE, by submitting the letter and the required details. Make Merchant can do this for you.

It usually takes a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on your bank's processing time and how complete your documents are.

AD Code registration is done at the Customs port from where you export or import. If you ship from more than one port, you need to register it at each of them.

AD Code links your authorised dealer bank to the port for your shipping bills. IFSC registration records your bank account so that Customs can credit drawback and refunds to it. Most exporters need both.

Yes. We guide you on the documents your bank needs, coordinate with the bank, and register the AD Code on ICEGATE, so you can start filing shipments without delays.

AD Code registration FAQs India
Make Merchant AD Code registration service India

Ready to Get Your AD Code?

AD Code registration is a required step for every exporter and importer in India. It makes customs clearance smoother, keeps you compliant with RBI rules and helps you claim export benefits.

Make Merchant helps you at every step, from the bank application to ICEGATE registration. We also support your IEC, RCMC, GST and customs clearance needs, so you can focus on growing your international trade.

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