AD code: what it is and why your EDF needs it

Only banks authorised by RBI can handle foreign exchange; they are called Authorised Dealers. When you export, one of them receives your payments and reports your exports to RBI. The AD code identifies that bank, the branch and your account in one number: the first digits are the bank and branch, the rest your account.

Goods exporters have long needed it to register with customs. Many service exporters first met it with the monthly EDF, which asks for the AD code of the bank you file with.

1. 1Decide which account will receive your export payments. One account for all of them keeps your EDFs and FIRCs in one place.
2. 2Ask that branch for your AD code letter. Some banks ask for your IEC (Import Export Code) first.
3. 3Keep the letter with your export records, and enter the code wherever your EDF asks for it.

If your clients pay through a platform such as PayPal, Payoneer, Wise or Skydo, the money still reaches India through a bank. Ask the platform which bank that is, and how it wants the EDF handled for payments through it, before you file.

Do freelancers need an AD code?

If you export services, your monthly EDF is filed with a bank and asks for that bank’s AD code. Ask your bank for it once.

Is the AD code the same as the IFSC?

No. The IFSC identifies a branch for transfers within India. The AD code identifies your bank, branch and account for exports and foreign exchange.

Does the AD code change?

It stays with the account. If you move your export payments to another bank or account, you get a new one.

• RBI, Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2026 (FEMA 23(R)/2026-RB), and amendment FEMA 23(R)/(1)/2026-RB of 22 September 2026

• Export Declaration Form (EDF) for servicesFrom 1 October 2026 every Indian exporter of services, freelancers included, files one EDF a month with their AD bank.
• FIRC and FIRAWhat a FIRC (Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate) and a FIRA are, why exporters of services keep one for every payment, what to check on them, and the purpose codes that go with them.
• SOFTEX is goneRBI's 2026 export rules retired the SOFTEX form for software exports.
• Due dates calendarGST, EDF and advance tax, month by month