The Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number is mandatory for customs operations in the European Union. This guide explains who needs an EORI, how to apply, and what to expect from the registration process.
An EORI number is required for any business or individual that interacts with EU customs authorities. Specific triggers for EORI registration include:
If your business only trades within the EU (intra-community trade), you do not need an EORI number as there are no customs formalities for goods moving between member states.
The member state where you should apply for an EORI number depends on where your business is established:
If your business is established in an EU member state, you must apply for an EORI number in that country. Your EORI will be issued by your home country's customs authority and will begin with that country's two-letter code.
If your business is established outside the EU, you generally have two options:
Some countries have additional requirements for non-EU applicants, such as appointing a customs representative or providing additional documentation.
The key advantage of the EORI system is that once issued, your EORI number is valid throughout the entire EU customs territory. You do not need to register separately in each member state—a single EORI allows you to conduct customs operations at any EU border, port, or airport.
The exact process varies by country, but the general steps are similar across the EU:
Typical information required for EORI registration includes:
Most EU countries offer online EORI registration through customs authority websites. Some countries still accept or require paper applications. Common application methods include:
Customs authorities verify the information provided against business registers and other official databases. They may request additional documentation or clarification before approving the registration.
Once approved, you receive your EORI number. In many countries this happens within a few days of application; others may take several weeks. The number is typically communicated via the same channel used for application (online portal notification, email, or post).
Here are links to customs authority websites for EORI registration in major EU countries (verify current URLs as they may change):
EORI registration is free of charge in most EU member states. However, some countries may charge nominal administrative fees. If you use a customs agent or broker to handle registration on your behalf, they may charge service fees.
Processing times vary considerably by country and application type:
Apply well before your first planned customs operation to avoid shipment delays.
Once you have your EORI number:
Many businesses encounter obstacles during EORI registration. Understanding these common issues can help you avoid delays and ensure smooth processing of your application.
Customs authorities cross-reference application information against official business registers. Ensure the business name, address, and registration details exactly match official records. Even minor variations (such as using "Ltd" versus "Limited") can cause verification failures that delay processing.
Companies established outside the European Union face additional requirements when applying for EORI numbers. Some member states require non-EU businesses to appoint a fiscal representative or customs agent who accepts certain liabilities on behalf of the foreign company. Requirements vary significantly between countries, so research your target member state's specific rules before applying.
In some EU countries, EORI registration is linked to or integrated with VAT registration systems. If you plan to reclaim import VAT, you may need VAT registration in the member state before or alongside your EORI application. Countries like Germany and the Netherlands have particularly streamlined processes that handle both registrations together.
Businesses with multiple EU establishments must understand when separate EORI numbers are needed. Generally, the parent company needs one EORI for each legal entity, but branches may operate under the parent's EORI. The determining factor is usually whether the branch has separate legal status and customs obligations.
Your obligations don't end once you receive your EORI number. Businesses must maintain accurate registration data and notify customs authorities of changes.
You must inform customs authorities of significant changes to your business, including company name changes, address changes, changes in legal form, mergers or acquisitions, and changes to authorized representatives. Failure to update details can result in customs declaration rejections and potential penalties.
Unlike some business registrations, EORI numbers generally do not expire and do not require periodic renewal. However, customs authorities may deactivate EORI numbers for businesses that cease trading, repeatedly fail compliance checks, or fail to maintain current contact information. If your EORI becomes inactive, you must apply for reactivation through your customs authority.
While a basic EORI allows standard import and export declarations, certain customs procedures require additional authorizations. If you intend to use customs warehousing, inward processing, outward processing, or other special procedures, you need separate authorizations from customs authorities. These authorizations are linked to your EORI but involve additional application processes and compliance requirements.
Having an EORI number is separate from VAT registration. Many businesses need both, but they serve different purposes and are obtained through different authorities. See our Which Number Do I Need? guide for help determining your requirements.
To verify EORI numbers, visit our EORI Verification Guide.
