ICEGATE AD Code & IFSC Registration
In India, every exporter must complete a process known as AD Code Registration to ensure smooth customs clearance of their export shipments. This registration must be completed on the ICEGATE portal, which is the official e-commerce gateway of the Indian Customs Department.
The AD (Authorised Dealer) Code is a 14-digit numerical code issued by the bank that handles the exporter's foreign exchange transactions. Registering this code on ICEGATE is mandatory for linking the exporter’s bank details with the Customs system, enabling the processing of shipping bills and generation of export documentation at ports.
What is an AD Code?
An AD Code, short for Authorised Dealer Code, is provided by the exporter's bank (which is authorised by the Reserve Bank of India to deal in foreign currency). The code uniquely identifies the bank branch through which export transactions are handled.
This code is used by the customs department to track the flow of foreign exchange and ensure that export proceeds are being routed through authorized banking channels.
Why is AD Code Registration Required on ICEGATE?
Registering your AD Code on the ICEGATE portal ensures that:
Exporters can file shipping bills electronically at any customs port
Bank details are verified and linked with the IEC (Importer Exporter Code)
Customs authorities can directly credit export incentives (RoDTEP, RoSCTL, MEIS, etc.)
There is no delay or rejection in customs clearance
Export payments are correctly tracked for compliance with FEMA and RBI norms
Failure to register the AD Code on ICEGATE means that the exporter will not be able to generate shipping bills, effectively halting export operations.
Key Points
One-Time Registration: You only need to register your AD Code with one port to make it available for all ports in India.
Multiple AD Codes: Businesses can have multiple AD Codes linked to different bank accounts for various foreign exchange transactions, and each of these AD Codes must be registered at a single port.
Change in Details: Any amendments or changes to an AD Code's account details must be done at the original port where it was registered.
ICEGATE Portal: AD Code registration and management are handled online through the ICEGATE portal.
IFSC Code: While the AD Code is registered at one port, the IFSC (Indian Financial System Code) must be registered separately at each port if you want to receive duty refunds or IGST credit.
Documents Required for AD Code Registration on ICEGATE
To register an AD Code, the following documents are typically required:
Copy of 14-digit AD Code letter issued by the bank on their letterhead(Format Attached)
Copy of the IEC Certificate
Cancelled cheque or bank certificate for verifying account details
Copy of the GST Certificate, if applicable
Class 3 Digital signature (sign with encrypt) in the name of organization
All documents should be in proper format, self-attested, and uploaded in the ICEGATE system during the registration process.
Obtain AD Code: Contact your bank and request the 14-digit AD Code issued for your IEC and export account.
Visit the ICEGATE Portal: Go to Official Site and log in with your registered IEC credentials.
Choose the e-SANCHIT module and upload the necessary documents
Registered users may utilize their digital signature (Class-3 category) to attest to the documentary proofs, upload them in e-SANCHIT, and furnish the IRN number they have obtained.
This is an essential pre-requisite step before continuing with Icegate AD Code registration. The following is the list of documents that need to be uploaded to e-SANCHIT [digitally signed]. After that, an IRN Number will be created, which will be used in Step 6 of this process.
Navigate to AD Code Registration Section: Under the “Bank Account Management” or “AD Code Registration” menu, select the option to add a new code.
Fill in the Details: Enter your IEC, branch address, bank details, and select the customs port where you wish to register.
Upload Required Documents: Upload PDF versions of the required documents including the bank letter, IEC, and others.
Authenticate with DSC: Complete the submission using the Digital Signature Certificate of the authorised signatory.
Track Status: After submission, you can track the status of your application on ICEGATE. Upon approval, the AD Code gets mapped with the selected port. Once approved, you are allowed to generate shipping bills from that port and export goods without obstruction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Uploading an AD Code letter that is not in the prescribed bank format
Mismatch in IEC and bank details
Using an expired or incorrect DSC
Attempting to register before IEC activation on ICEGATE
These mistakes can delay customs clearance and shipment schedules.
Benefits of Proper AD Code Registration
Smooth and uninterrupted clearance of export shipments
Automatic linkage of bank accounts with DGFT and customs for incentive credits
Easy filing of shipping bills and documentation via ICEGATE
Transparent and traceable foreign exchange transactions
Compliance with RBI and FEMA guidelines
Having your AD Code properly registered is not just a formality—it is a legal requirement for facilitating exports.
Moreover, If you want any other guidance relating to registering AD Code or IEC, please feel free to talk to our business advisors at +91 8807-000-050.