Bank AD Code Registration – Complete Guide for Exporters

 


For Indian exporters, one of the first steps in starting an export business is obtaining an Authorised Dealer (AD) Code from their bank and registering it with Customs. The AD Code ensures that foreign exchange earnings are routed correctly to the exporter’s bank account, as mandated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

The process is commonly known as Bank AD Code Registration, because the code itself is issued by your bank and then registered at customs through the ICEGATE portal. Without it, shipping bills cannot be generated, and consignments cannot be cleared for export.

This article explains in detail how exporters can obtain and register their AD Code from their bank, the required documents, benefits, and common mistakes to avoid.

What is a Bank AD Code?

  • AD Code stands for Authorised Dealer Code.

  • It is a 14-digit numerical code issued by the exporter’s bank branch.

  • Each exporter’s AD Code is linked with their Import Export Code (IEC) for customs transactions.

  • The code ensures that foreign currency proceeds are deposited into the correct bank account.

 Important: While DGFT issues IEC, your bank issues the AD Code. Only after you obtain this from your bank can you proceed to register it on the  ICEGATE portal.

Why is Bank AD Code Registration Required?

  • Mandatory for Exports – Customs does not allow shipping bill generation without a registered AD Code.

  • Foreign Exchange Compliance – RBI monitors export payments through AD Code-linked accounts.

  • DGFT Incentives – Export benefits like RoDTEP, Duty Drawback, and GST refunds require an AD Code registered with customs.

  • Multiple Ports – AD Code must be registered at each port of export.

  • Avoids Shipment Delays – Ensures smooth clearance of goods at customs.

Step-by-Step Process of Bank AD Code Registration

1.  Apply for AD Code at Your Bank

  • Visit the branch where you maintain a current account for exports.

  • Request an AD Code letter on the bank’s official letterhead.

  • Ensure the letter is signed and stamped by the bank manager.

  • The AD Code will be a 14-digit number unique to your account.

2.  Register the AD Code at Customs (ICEGATE Portal)

Once you have the code, you must register it at the customs port of export:

  • Go to www.icegate.gov.in.

  • Login using your IEC credentials.

  • Navigate to Bank Account Management → Register AD Code.

  • Upload the AD Code letter and bank details.

  • Submit for approval.

3.  Approval by Customs

  • Customs verifies the details.

  • Once approved, the AD Code is linked with your IEC and bank account.

  • You can then generate shipping bills and export goods.

Documents Required for Bank AD Code Registration

  • Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT

  • Bank-issued AD Code letter (on official letterhead)

  • GST Registration Certificate

  • PAN Card of the exporter

  • Cancelled Cheque of the exporter’s current account

  • Company’s Address Proof

Validity of Bank AD Code

  • Remains valid as long as the bank account is active.

  • If you change your bank, a new AD Code must be obtained.

  • AD Code registration must be done separately for each customs port.

Benefits of Bank AD Code Registration

  • Seamless Customs Clearance – Enables generation of shipping bills.

  • RBI Compliance – Ensures legal monitoring of export earnings.

  • Export Incentives – Required to claim DGFT & customs-related benefits.

  • Trust & Credibility – Builds confidence with customs authorities.

  • Multi-Port Access – Register AD Code at all your export ports.

Common Mistakes Exporters Should Avoid

  • Submitting an incorrect AD Code letter format – customs may reject it.

  • Mismatch between IEC and bank account details.

  • Forgetting to register at multiple ports – each port requires separate registration.

  • Delays in updating AD Code when changing banks.

How YKG Global Can Help

At YKG Global, we provide complete assistance with Bank AD Code Registration:

  • Coordinating with your bank for a proper AD Code letter.

  • Registering your AD Code on the ICEGATE portal.

  • Ensuring compliance with RBI, DGFT, and customs.

  • Avoiding errors that delay export shipments.

  • Support for multi-port AD Code registrations.

With our expertise, exporters can save time, avoid rejections, and ensure smooth trade operations.

Bank AD Code Registration is a mandatory step for exporters in India. Since the AD Code is issued by your bank and linked with your DGFT-issued IEC at customs, it serves as the backbone of smooth international trade transactions.

Without a registered AD Code, exporters cannot generate shipping bills, clear consignments, or claim export incentives. Therefore, it is crucial to obtain the AD Code from your bank and complete registration at ICEGATE well before initiating exports.

Professional guidance from experts like YKG Global ensures quick, error-free, and compliant registration.

📧 Email: Rishi@ykgglobal.com
🌐 Website: www.ykgglobal.com
📱 Call/WhatsApp: +91 76782 77665
📍 Offices: Delhi | Mumbai | Dubai | Singapore


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