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AD code registration for exporters and importers
What an AD (Authorised Dealer) code is, how to register it with Customs on ICEGATE, why drawback and other refunds need it, and what to ask your bank. Steps and official links.
Official sources checked: 2 Oct 2026
The short answer
What an AD (Authorised Dealer) code is, how to register it with Customs on ICEGATE, why drawback and other refunds need it, and what to ask your bank. Steps and official links. Key facts: Issued by: Your bank gives the code; Customs registers it on ICEGATE; Validity: Registered per port; update if you change bank account; Time: Registration appears on your ICEGATE dashboard after approval.
Source: old.icegate.gov.in. Not yet matched to an official page; confirm on the official portal before paying.
What it is
The AD code is the seven-digit Authorised Dealer code that the Reserve Bank of India gives to each bank branch that deals in foreign exchange. Customs uses it to link your IEC to the bank account that handles your trade payments and refunds.
Exporters register their AD code and bank account on ICEGATE for each customs port or location where they ship. Without it, drawback and other refunds cannot be credited.
Who needs it
Every IEC holder who files shipping bills or bills of entry. ICEGATE says bank account registration under the AD code is mandatory for drawback refund claims.
Official fees
| Fee | Official amount |
|---|---|
| AD code registration on ICEGATE | No amount shownNot officially verified SourceThe ICEGATE advisory we checked mentions no fee. Confirm on ICEGATE before relying on this. |
Fees and rules change and can differ between offices. Confirm the fee on the official portal before you pay. Amounts marked Not officially verified could not be checked on an official page.
Documents to keep ready
- Your IEC and PAN
- Bank account number held with an authorised dealer bank branch
- The AD code of that branch (ask your bank)
- ICEGATE login ID and password
- Mobile number linked to your ICEGATE profile for the OTP
Steps to apply
- Ask your bank branch for its seven-digit AD code and confirm the account is set up for foreign exchange.
- Register on ICEGATE if you have not already, using your IEC. icegate.gov.in
- Log in and open your user profile, then the AD code and bank account section.
- Select the bank name and enter the AD code. ICEGATE checks the code against the bank name.
- Enter the OTP. Your request is sent for approval.
- Once approved, the account shows on your Authorised Dealer Code dashboard. Repeat for each port you use.
Where to apply
- ICEGATE: Register the AD code and bank account
- ICEGATE advisory on AD code registration: Official step-by-step advisory
Govt License is not a government website. We never take government fees or apply for you.
One account per port
The ICEGATE advisory allows only one AD code bank account for an IEC holder at one location. If you change your bank, update the registration before you file the next shipping bill.
After you apply
What to do once the form is submitted: where to track it, how long it takes, why it gets rejected and what the law says if you do not have it.
Track your application
Typical time
Registration appears on your ICEGATE dashboard after approval
Not officially verified
If you operate without it
Goods whose value or other details do not match the entry filed with Customs can be confiscated (Customs Act section 111). The person can also be fined under section 112: up to the value of the goods or ₹5,000 for prohibited goods, or up to 10 percent of the duty evaded or ₹5,000 for dutiable goods, whichever is higher.
Law: Customs Act 1962 sections 111 and 112
Checked on 5 Oct 2026 Source
Common reasons for rejection and how to fix them
| Reason | How to fix it |
|---|---|
| Bank account details do not match the IEC | Use the same firm name and account as in your IEC profile. |
| AD code or branch details entered wrongly | Ask your bank branch for the correct 14 digit AD code and check it before saving. |
| IEC not linked or not active | Make sure your IEC is valid on DGFT, then register again on ICEGATE. |
Not officially verified
Govt License is an independent guide. Fines and rules change, so confirm on the official portal. Items marked Not officially verified could not be checked on an official page.