An AD code request letter is a short formal request asking your bank to give you, in writing, the Authorised Dealer code of the branch that handles your export transactions. You need that code for field 1.6 of the EDF, and goods exporters also need it registered for customs. A clear letter on your letterhead, naming your account and explaining why you need the code, usually gets a written reply you can keep on file.
Key takeaways
- The AD code identifies the bank branch handling your export transactions. It is not the IFSC and not the SWIFT code.
- Service exporters need it for field 1.6 of the EDF, in force from 1 October 2026.
- Ask in writing so you get a written answer, and keep it with your EDF records.
- Ask the bank to confirm which branch is your AD branch, because it may not be your home branch.
- If you bank with two banks for exports, you need the AD code from each.
Why you need the AD code
The EDF has 22 fields in Part 1. Field 1.6 is the AD code. Without it, the bank cannot easily link your EDF to the right branch for EDPMS entry, and your form looks incomplete.
The AD code belongs to the branch that deals with your foreign exchange receipts. Your account may sit at a small local branch while a different branch processes export transactions. That is why a phone call sometimes produces the wrong number: the person answering gives the home branch's details. A written request that clearly says "for export of services and EDF submission" reduces that risk.
Read our AD code explainer for more background, or the short AD code glossary entry.
Three bank codes, three jobs
| Code | What it identifies | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| IFSC | A bank branch in India | Domestic transfers (NEFT, RTGS, IMPS) |
| SWIFT/BIC | A bank (and sometimes branch) internationally | Foreign clients sending wires |
| AD code | The branch handling your export transactions | EDF field 1.6; customs registration for goods |
Exporters regularly mix these up. A letter asking specifically for the AD code avoids getting the IFSC by mistake.
What the letter should contain
- Your letterhead (for businesses), date and place.
- Addressee: Branch Manager, bank, branch address.
- Subject line that names the request and the account.
- Who you are: legal name, account number (masked if preferred), customer ID, nature of business.
- Why you need it: export of services; EDF submission under the FEMA (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2026.
- What you want: the AD code, the name and address of the AD branch, and how the bank accepts EDFs.
- Signature of an authorised signatory.
Sample AD code request letter
[On letterhead]
Date: 2 October 2026
To, The Branch Manager, [Bank name], [Branch name and address]
Subject: Request for AD code for export transactions – Current Account No. XXXXXX3019
Dear Sir/Madam,
We, Saarthi Cloud Services LLP, maintain the above current account with your branch. We provide IT services to clients outside India and receive export proceeds in this account.
Under the Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Goods and Services) Regulations, 2026, in force from 1 October 2026, we are required to submit an Export Declaration Form (EDF) to our AD bank. Field 1.6 of the form requires the AD code.
We request you to kindly provide:
- The AD code applicable to our export transactions;
- The name and address of the branch that will process our EDFs, if different from this branch;
- Your bank's accepted method of EDF submission (branch, email or online), and any supporting documents you require.
We would be grateful for a written reply by email to accounts@[yourdomain] or on your letterhead.
Thanking you,
For Saarthi Cloud Services LLP (Signature) Kavya Iyer, Designated Partner
Replace placeholders with your details. Use your own business email in the request, not a personal one if you can avoid it.
Worked example: getting two codes
Saarthi Cloud Services LLP receives US client payments at one bank and European client payments, via a payment platform, at another. It sends the same letter to both banks on 2 October 2026.
The first bank replies within the week with its AD code and confirms EDFs are accepted at the home branch. The second bank says export transactions for Saarthi's account are handled at a different branch in the city, and provides that branch's AD code and email.
Saarthi now has two AD codes. Its October 2026 invoices are split into two EDFs, one per bank, each with the right code in field 1.6. Both are due by 30 November 2026. The replies go into Saarthi's EDF register, so the question never needs asking again.
Attachments and follow-up
Usually none are needed beyond the letter. If the bank asks, attach:
- A copy of your GST registration or incorporation certificate, to confirm the account holder.
- An authority letter, if someone other than the signatory will deliver the request. Our authority letter tool generates one.
If you hear nothing in a week, call the branch, quote the date of your letter, and ask who is handling it. Keep a note of the call.
Mistakes to avoid
- Accepting the IFSC as the AD code. They are different. Ask the bank to confirm the code is for export transactions.
- Not asking which branch. Your AD branch may differ from your home branch.
- Forgetting the second bank. If export receipts land in two banks, request two codes.
- Not keeping the reply. The written answer is your record if anything is questioned later.
This is general information, not legal advice. Each bank publishes its own process for export transactions and EDF acceptance.
Frequently asked questions
What is an AD code request letter?
It is a formal letter to your bank asking for the Authorised Dealer code of the branch that handles your export transactions. Exporters need the code for field 1.6 of the EDF, and goods exporters also use it for customs.
Is the AD code the same as IFSC?
No. IFSC identifies a branch for domestic transfers. The AD code identifies the branch for export transactions. Ask the bank specifically for the AD code.
Do service exporters need an AD code?
Yes, for the EDF. Field 1.6 asks for the AD code of the bank branch handling your exports. Goods exporters additionally register it for customs purposes.
How long does the bank take to provide the AD code?
It varies by bank and branch. A written request with a clear subject line usually gets a faster, more accurate answer. Follow up after a week if needed.
What if I bank with more than one bank for exports?
Request the AD code from each bank where export proceeds land. Each EDF carries the AD code of the bank it is submitted to.
Bottom line
A one-page letter gets you the code you need for every EDF. Generate it instantly with our AD code request letter tool, then fill your first form on the free EDF form generator.
This guide is general information for Indian businesses, not legal or tax advice. Rules and bank processes change — confirm specifics with your AD bank or chartered accountant.