AD CODE REGISTRATION IN INDIA

AD Code Registration Online – Apply for AD Code on ICEGATE

Planning to export goods from India?

An AD Code (Authorised Dealer Code) is an important banking and customs-related requirement for exporters carrying out international trade transactions through customs ports. Exporters generally need to register the AD Code associated with their bank account with the relevant Customs/ICEGATE system for the port/location from which they intend to export.

At the Indian Institute of Legal English (IILE), we provide professional assistance for AD Code Registration, ICEGATE AD Code Registration, documentation and export compliance support.

Whether you are a manufacturer, merchant exporter, startup, MSME, partnership firm, LLP or private limited company, getting your AD Code requirements properly arranged can help create a smoother export process.

EXPORT GLOBALLY. BANK SMART. COMPLY RIGHT.

AD CODE REGISTRATION | ICEGATE | EXPORT COMPLIANCE

WHAT IS AD CODE?

AD Code stands for Authorised Dealer Code.

It is a unique code associated with a bank branch authorised to handle foreign exchange transactions.

For exporters, the AD Code links the exporter's bank account and authorised banking channel with the export transaction and customs-related processes.

An exporter generally obtains the AD Code-related letter/documentation from the authorised dealer bank and then registers the required details with the applicable Customs/ICEGATE system.

IN SIMPLE TERMS:

Exporter

↓

Authorised Dealer Bank

↓

AD Code

↓

ICEGATE / Customs Registration

↓

Export Transactions

YOUR EXPORT JOURNEY STARTS WITH THE RIGHT COMPLIANCE.

WHAT IS AD CODE REGISTRATION?

AD Code Registration is the process of registering the bank's Authorised Dealer Code and associated bank-account details with the applicable Customs/ICEGATE system for export-related purposes.

The process can involve:

• Authorised Dealer bank
• Exporter's current account
• AD Code letter/certificate
• Bank details
• ICEGATE registration
• Port/location selection
• Customs validation
• Export-related documentation

The exact process and requirements can depend on the applicable Customs/ICEGATE procedures and the port/location.

BANK ACCOUNT READY?

MAKE YOUR EXPORT COMPLIANCE READY.

WHY IS AD CODE REGISTRATION IMPORTANT?

AD Code registration is an important part of export-related customs and banking compliance.

It can help exporters:

✔ CONNECT BANKING DETAILS

Associate the relevant authorised dealer bank details with export transactions.

✔ FACILITATE EXPORT PROCEDURES

Support the customs/export documentation process.

✔ ENABLE BANK ACCOUNT MAPPING

Connect the exporter's bank account details with the applicable customs system.

✔ SUPPORT EXPORT TRANSACTIONS

Help maintain proper banking and customs records associated with exports.

✔ REDUCE PROCEDURAL ISSUES

Properly arranged documentation can reduce avoidable errors during export processing.

✔ SUPPORT BUSINESS CONTINUITY

A properly structured export compliance setup helps exporters operate more efficiently.

BE EXPORT-READY BEFORE YOUR FIRST SHIPMENT.

WHO NEEDS AD CODE REGISTRATION?

AD Code requirements are particularly relevant to businesses engaged in exports.

These can include:

🏭 MANUFACTURERS

Manufacturers exporting their own products.

📦 MERCHANT EXPORTERS

Businesses purchasing goods in India and exporting them overseas.

🚀 STARTUPS

Startups entering international markets.

🏢 PRIVATE LIMITED COMPANIES

Companies undertaking international trade.

🤝 LLPs & PARTNERSHIP FIRMS

Business entities exporting goods.

👤 PROPRIETORSHIPS

Proprietorship businesses engaged in export activities.

🛒 E-COMMERCE EXPORTERS

Businesses exporting products through international e-commerce channels, where applicable.

🌾 AGRICULTURAL EXPORTERS

Businesses exporting agricultural and food products, subject to applicable regulations.

IF YOU ARE SERIOUS ABOUT EXPORTING, GET YOUR BANKING & CUSTOMS SETUP RIGHT.

AD CODE REGISTRATION FOR EXPORTERS

Exporters generally need to ensure that their relevant bank details and AD Code are properly arranged for the customs/export location where required.

The process can involve:

1. Selecting the authorised dealer bank account.
2. Obtaining the AD Code letter from the bank.
3. Ensuring the bank details are accurate.
4. Registering the required details through the applicable ICEGATE/customs process.
5. Selecting the relevant port/location.
6. Completing validation/approval.
7. Checking the registered details before undertaking export transactions.

EXPORT WITHOUT CONFUSION.

REGISTER YOUR AD CODE THE RIGHT WAY.

AD CODE REGISTRATION ON ICEGATE

What is ICEGATE?

ICEGATE is the Indian Customs electronic portal used for various customs-related services and electronic filing processes.

AD Code-related registration is handled through the applicable Customs/ICEGATE process.

The exporter should ensure that:

• ICEGATE account details are correct
• IEC details are accurate
• Bank account information matches
• AD Code information is correct
• Relevant port/location is selected
• Bank documentation is valid
• Required supporting documents are available

IEC + BANK + AD CODE + ICEGATE

THE FOUNDATION OF A SMOOTHER EXPORT SETUP.

AD CODE REGISTRATION PROCESS

STEP-BY-STEP AD CODE REGISTRATION

STEP 1 — HAVE A VALID IEC

The exporter should have an applicable Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT where required.

STEP 2 — MAINTAIN AN EXPORT BANK ACCOUNT

Identify the bank account that will be used for export-related transactions.

STEP 3 — CONTACT YOUR AUTHORISED DEALER BANK

Request the applicable AD Code letter/document from your bank branch.

STEP 4 — VERIFY BANK DETAILS

Check:

• Account number
• Bank name
• Branch
• IFSC
• AD Code
• Exporter's legal name

STEP 5 — PREPARE ICEGATE DETAILS

Ensure the exporter's ICEGATE registration and profile information are accurate.

STEP 6 — REGISTER AD CODE

Submit/register the applicable AD Code details through the prescribed Customs/ICEGATE process.

STEP 7 — SELECT PORT/LOCATION

Where required, select the customs port/location for which the AD Code is being registered.

STEP 8 — SUBMIT SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

Upload or provide applicable documents as required.

STEP 9 — VERIFICATION

The submitted information may be checked by the relevant customs/banking authority.

STEP 10 — REGISTRATION / APPROVAL

Upon successful processing, the AD Code is registered for the relevant location/process.

STEP 11 — VERIFY DETAILS

Check the registered bank and AD Code details before commencing export transactions.

FROM BANK LETTER TO CUSTOMS REGISTRATION.

IILE HELPS YOU NAVIGATE THE PROCESS.

AD CODE REGISTRATION DOCUMENTS

Documents Required for AD Code Registration

The exact document requirements can vary depending on the applicable Customs/ICEGATE process, bank and circumstances.

Commonly required information/documents may include:

1. IEC

Copy/details of the Import Export Code.

2. AD CODE LETTER

AD Code letter/certificate issued by the authorised dealer bank in the prescribed format.

3. BANK ACCOUNT DETAILS

Details of the current account being used for export transactions.

4. BANK CERTIFICATE / CONFIRMATION

Where required by the applicable process.

5. PAN

PAN of the exporter/entity.

6. GST DETAILS

GST registration details, where applicable.

7. BUSINESS CONSTITUTION DOCUMENTS

Depending on the entity:

• Certificate of Incorporation
• Partnership Deed
• LLP documents
• Proprietorship documents
• Other applicable documents

8. ICEGATE DETAILS

ICEGATE registration/account information where applicable.

9. AUTHORITY LETTER

Where required.

10. OTHER SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

Any additional documents requested by the applicable Customs/bank authority.

DOCUMENTS MATCH. DETAILS MATCH. REGISTRATION MOVES FASTER.

AD CODE REGISTRATION FEES

How Much Does AD Code Registration Cost?

The government/customs registration process and professional service charges should not be confused.

The actual cost can depend on:

• Bank charges, if any
• Documentation requirements
• Professional assistance charges
• Number of ports/locations
• Additional compliance services

There is no universal government fee that should be advertised as the same for every exporter and every situation.

GET A CLEAR COST BREAKDOWN BEFORE YOU APPLY.

Government/Bank Charges + Professional Assistance = Total Cost

AD CODE REGISTRATION ONLINE

Can AD Code Be Registered Online?

The applicable AD Code registration process is carried out through the relevant Customs/ICEGATE electronic system, subject to the current procedures and requirements.

An exporter may need to:

• Log in to the applicable portal
• Access the relevant registration/service
• Enter bank details
• Upload/submit supporting documents
• Select the applicable port/location
• Submit the request
• Monitor status
• Respond to queries, if any

The exact interface and process can change as government systems are updated.

ONLINE PROCESS. REAL COMPLIANCE.

AD CODE REGISTRATION FOR NEW EXPORTERS

Starting your first export business?

Your export setup may involve:

01

Business Structure

↓

02

PAN

↓

03

GST, Where Applicable

↓

04

IEC

↓

05

Bank Account

↓

06

AD Code

↓

07

ICEGATE / Customs Setup

↓

08

Product-Specific Licences

↓

09

Shipping Documentation

↓

10

Export Shipment

DON'T WAIT UNTIL THE SHIPMENT IS READY.

PREPARE YOUR EXPORT COMPLIANCE IN ADVANCE.

AD CODE FOR MSME EXPORTERS

MSMEs increasingly participate in global trade through:

• E-commerce
• B2B exports
• Merchant exports
• Manufacturing
• Handicrafts
• Textiles
• Engineering goods
• Food products
• Agricultural products

AD Code registration can form part of their export compliance setup where applicable.

FROM LOCAL BUSINESS TO GLOBAL MARKET.

IILE HELPS YOU BUILD THE COMPLIANCE BRIDGE.

AD CODE FOR PRIVATE LIMITED COMPANIES

A Private Limited Company exporting goods should ensure that its banking, IEC, customs and export documentation are properly aligned.

Common export setup may involve:

• Company PAN
• IEC
• GST, where applicable
• Current account
• AD Code
• ICEGATE
• Shipping Bill process
• Product-specific registrations/licences

AD CODE FOR LLP

LLPs undertaking export activities should ensure that their entity information, IEC, bank details and customs registrations are properly aligned.

AD CODE FOR PARTNERSHIP FIRMS

Partnership firms engaged in exports can also need appropriate export and customs registrations.

Business details should be consistent across:

• PAN
• IEC
• Bank account
• GST
• ICEGATE
• AD Code documentation

AD CODE FOR PROPRIETORSHIP

A proprietor exporting goods should ensure that the proprietor/business information reflected in the IEC, bank account, AD Code and customs records is accurate and consistent.

ONE BUSINESS NAME. ONE CONSISTENT DATA TRAIL.

AD CODE FOR E-COMMERCE EXPORTERS

Online sellers entering international markets should understand the applicable export requirements before shipping products overseas.

Depending on the nature of exports, exporters may need to consider:

• IEC
• AD Code
• GST
• Customs requirements
• Shipping documentation
• Product-specific regulations
• Foreign exchange/banking compliance
• E-commerce export procedures

SELL ONLINE. SHIP GLOBAL. STAY COMPLIANT.

AD CODE FOR EXPORT FROM DIFFERENT PORTS

One important aspect exporters should understand is that AD Code registration can be associated with specific customs ports/locations under the applicable process.

Exporters using multiple ports should therefore check the current registration requirements for each relevant location.

For example, an exporter shipping through:

• Nhava Sheva / JNPT
• Mundra
• Chennai
• Kolkata
• Delhi Air Cargo
• Mumbai Air Cargo
• Bengaluru Air Cargo
• Hyderabad
• Other customs locations

should verify the applicable AD Code registration process for the relevant port.

NEW PORT?

CHECK YOUR AD CODE SETUP BEFORE SHIPPING.

AD CODE FOR AIR CARGO EXPORT

Businesses exporting goods through airports should ensure that their applicable customs and AD Code requirements are properly arranged for the relevant air cargo location.

AD CODE FOR SEA PORT EXPORT

Exporters using sea ports should verify the relevant port-specific Customs/ICEGATE requirements.

AD CODE FOR COURIER EXPORT

Courier and e-commerce exporters should verify the applicable customs and banking requirements for their shipment model.

AD CODE AND IEC – WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

Many new exporters confuse IEC and AD Code.

They are not the same.

IECAD CodeIssued by DGFT | Associated with Authorised Dealer Bank
Identifies importer/exporter | Identifies the authorised dealer banking relationship/code
Used for import/export activities | Used in applicable customs/export banking processes
Generally required for export/import where applicable | Registered with Customs/ICEGATE where required
Entity/exporter focused | Bank/export transaction focused

SIMPLE FORMULA:

IEC IDENTIFIES THE EXPORTER.

AD CODE IDENTIFIES THE AUTHORISED BANKING CHANNEL.

AD CODE AND ICEGATE – WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

ICEGATE is the electronic Customs platform.

AD Code is a banking code associated with the exporter's authorised dealer bank.

The AD Code may be registered through the applicable ICEGATE/Customs process.

THINK OF IT THIS WAY:

Bank → AD Code

Customs → ICEGATE

Exporter → IEC

Export Transaction → All Need to Align

BANKING + CUSTOMS + EXPORTER DATA = COMPLIANCE.

AD CODE AND SHIPPING BILL

AD Code details can be relevant to export customs documentation and processes.

Exporters should ensure that applicable AD Code information is properly registered and available for the relevant customs location before undertaking exports.

Errors or mismatches can create procedural issues.

DON'T LET A BANK DETAIL ERROR DELAY A SHIPMENT.

AD CODE AND BANK ACCOUNT

The AD Code is linked to the authorised dealer bank and the exporter's relevant bank account.

Therefore, exporters should ensure:

• Bank account is active
• Account name matches business records
• IEC details are correct
• AD Code details are correct
• IFSC details are correct
• Bank letter is valid/current where applicable

YOUR BANK DETAILS ARE PART OF YOUR EXPORT IDENTITY.

CHANGE OF BANK ACCOUNT & AD CODE

If an exporter changes the bank account or authorised dealer bank, the exporter should evaluate whether the existing AD Code registration needs to be updated, modified or replaced under the applicable Customs/ICEGATE procedure.

Possible changes can include:

• Bank change
• Account change
• Branch change
• AD Code change
• Business constitution change
• Legal name change

NEW BANK?

UPDATE YOUR EXPORT COMPLIANCE.

AD CODE REGISTRATION FOR MULTIPLE BANK ACCOUNTS

Businesses using multiple bank accounts should carefully determine which authorised dealer bank/account is to be used for the relevant export transactions and what registration is required at each applicable port/location.

The correct process should be verified before registration.

AD CODE REGISTRATION FOR MULTIPLE PORTS

Exporters operating through multiple customs locations should review the current port-specific AD Code registration requirements.

ONE EXPORT BUSINESS. MULTIPLE PORTS.

KEEP EVERY LOCATION COMPLIANCE-READY.

COMMON AD CODE REGISTRATION MISTAKES

❌ WRONG BANK DETAILS

Incorrect account or IFSC information can create problems.

❌ MISMATCHED BUSINESS NAME

Exporter name should be consistent across relevant documents.

❌ INCORRECT AD CODE

The code must match the authorised dealer bank information.

❌ WRONG PORT

Registering the code for the wrong customs location can create procedural issues.

❌ INVALID BANK DOCUMENT

Ensure the AD Code letter is issued correctly by the bank.

❌ IEC MISMATCH

Exporter information should be consistent across IEC, bank and Customs records.

❌ WAITING UNTIL SHIPMENT DAY

Complete applicable registration well before the shipment whenever possible.

❌ IGNORING CHANGES

Bank or business changes may require updates.

EXPORT DELAYS ARE EXPENSIVE.

GET YOUR AD CODE RIGHT THE FIRST TIME.

BENEFITS OF AD CODE REGISTRATION

1. EXPORT READINESS

Helps prepare the exporter for applicable customs/export processes.

2. BANKING-CUSTOMS ALIGNMENT

Connects relevant banking information with the applicable customs process.

3. BETTER DOCUMENTATION

Creates a structured compliance record.

4. SMOOTHER EXPORT OPERATIONS

Properly prepared information can reduce avoidable procedural issues.

5. PROFESSIONAL EXPORT SETUP

Builds a stronger foundation for international trade operations.

6. SUPPORTS BUSINESS SCALING

A properly organised export compliance structure can help businesses expand into new markets and ports.

READY TO EXPORT?

MAKE YOUR AD CODE PART OF THE PLAN.

WHY CHOOSE IILE FOR AD CODE REGISTRATION?

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF LEGAL ENGLISH (IILE)

Export compliance can involve multiple systems, authorities, documents and banking requirements.

IILE provides professional assistance to help exporters understand and organise their AD Code registration requirements.

✔ AD CODE REQUIREMENT GUIDANCE

Understand the applicable AD Code process for your export setup.

✔ DOCUMENTATION SUPPORT

Assistance in preparing and organising relevant documents.

✔ ICEGATE PROCESS GUIDANCE

Guidance through the applicable Customs/ICEGATE registration process.

✔ BANK COORDINATION GUIDANCE

Understand the documentation required from your authorised dealer bank.

✔ PORT-SPECIFIC GUIDANCE

Assistance in understanding applicable registration requirements for relevant customs locations.

✔ ERROR CHECKING

Help identify common data/document mismatches before submission.

✔ EXPORT COMPLIANCE SUPPORT

Support for building a better export compliance structure.

FROM BANK LETTER TO GLOBAL SHIPMENT.

IILE HELPS YOU MOVE FORWARD WITH CONFIDENCE.

HOW IILE CAN HELP

STEP 1 — UNDERSTAND

We understand your business and export requirements.

STEP 2 — CHECK

We identify the relevant AD Code and registration requirements.

STEP 3 — DOCUMENT

We help organise the required documentation.

STEP 4 — PREPARE

The applicable registration information is prepared.

STEP 5 — SUBMIT

The application/request is submitted through the applicable process.

STEP 6 — MONITOR

Application status and queries can be monitored.

STEP 7 — VERIFY

Registered details are checked for accuracy.

EXPORT SMARTER. COMPLY BETTER.

AD CODE REGISTRATION CHECKLIST

Before starting the process, keep the following ready where applicable:

EXPORTER

☐ IEC
☐ PAN
☐ GST details, where applicable
☐ Business constitution documents

BANK

☐ Current account
☐ Authorised Dealer bank
☐ AD Code
☐ AD Code letter
☐ IFSC
☐ Bank confirmation/documentation

ICEGATE

☐ ICEGATE registration/account
☐ Correct exporter details
☐ Correct IEC
☐ Relevant port/location

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

☐ Bank documents
☐ Entity documents
☐ Address proof
☐ Authorisation letter, where applicable
☐ Other required documents

CHECK IT. MATCH IT. REGISTER IT. EXPORT IT.

AD CODE REGISTRATION FAQ

What is AD Code?

AD Code means Authorised Dealer Code, a code associated with an authorised dealer bank for foreign exchange-related transactions.

What is AD Code Registration?

It is the process of registering the relevant bank/AD Code details with the applicable Customs/ICEGATE system for export-related purposes.

Is AD Code mandatory for exporters?

Requirements can depend on the applicable customs process and export activity. Exporters should verify the current requirements for their transaction and port.

Is AD Code required for export from India?

AD Code registration is an important customs/export compliance requirement for many exporters. The exact requirement should be checked against the current Customs/ICEGATE procedure.

Where is AD Code registered?

The applicable registration is generally handled through the Customs/ICEGATE system for the relevant customs location.

Can AD Code registration be done online?

The applicable process is electronic through the relevant Customs/ICEGATE system, subject to current procedures.

What documents are required for AD Code registration?

Common requirements can include IEC, AD Code letter from the bank, bank-account details and other supporting information/documents.

How do I get an AD Code from my bank?

The exporter generally approaches its authorised dealer bank branch and requests the applicable AD Code letter/documentation.

What is the difference between IEC and AD Code?

IEC identifies the importer/exporter, while AD Code relates to the authorised dealer banking relationship used in applicable export processes.

Is AD Code the same as IFSC?

No. IFSC identifies a bank branch for electronic fund transfers, while AD Code is an authorised dealer code associated with foreign exchange/customs processes.

Can I use one AD Code for multiple ports?

Port-specific registration requirements may apply. Exporters using multiple customs locations should verify the current procedure for each relevant port.

Can an exporter have multiple AD Codes?

The answer depends on the banking arrangements and applicable customs rules. Exporters should determine the appropriate registration structure based on their authorised dealer banks and export locations.

Can I change my AD Code?

Where the bank/account changes, the exporter may need to update or modify its AD Code registration according to the applicable Customs/ICEGATE process.

Can a Private Limited Company register an AD Code?

Yes, an eligible exporting company can arrange AD Code-related registration for its export operations, subject to applicable requirements.

Can an LLP register an AD Code?

An eligible LLP undertaking exports can arrange the applicable AD Code registration.

Can a proprietorship register an AD Code?

An eligible proprietorship exporter can arrange the applicable AD Code process.

Do MSMEs need AD Code?

MSMEs undertaking export activities should evaluate the applicable AD Code/customs requirements for their transactions.

Is AD Code required for import?

AD Code is primarily associated with export/customs banking processes. Importers should separately evaluate applicable customs and banking requirements.

Does AD Code expire?

The validity and update requirements depend on the relevant bank documentation and Customs/ICEGATE process. Exporters should keep their details current.

Can AD Code registration be rejected?

Applications or registrations can encounter issues because of incorrect details, mismatched documents, incomplete information or other procedural reasons.

How long does AD Code registration take?

Processing time can vary depending on the bank, Customs/ICEGATE process, port/location and whether additional verification is required.

Does AD Code registration have a government fee?

The applicable government/bank fee structure should be verified for the specific process. Professional service charges, if any, are separate.

Is AD Code required for every shipment?

The role of AD Code registration is generally at the registration/customs-process level rather than simply being a separate application for every shipment. Exporters should follow the current Customs/ICEGATE procedure applicable to their exports.