๐ EORI Registration Checklist
Track which documents you have ready for your EORI application:
EORI Registration by Country
Register for your EORI number directly with the customs authority in your EU member state:
What is an EORI Number? Complete Guide 2026
An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) is a unique identifier assigned to businesses and individuals involved in importing or exporting goods to or from the European Union. It is required for all customs declarations within the EU and is used by customs authorities across all 27 member states to track and identify traders.
Who Needs an EORI Number?
- Any EU business importing goods from outside the EU
- Any EU business exporting goods to countries outside the EU
- Non-EU businesses that lodge customs declarations in the EU
- Any business involved in transit procedures through the EU
- Businesses applying for customs authorizations (AEO, customs warehousing, etc.)
You do not need an EORI number for trading goods within the EU โ it is only required for trade with non-EU countries (third countries).
EORI Number Format
An EORI number consists of the 2-letter ISO country code of the issuing member state followed by up to 15 alphanumeric characters. For example, Belgian EORI numbers follow the format BE + VAT number (e.g., BE0897290877). In Germany, EORI numbers typically follow the format DE + customs number. The EORI number is linked to your VAT number in most EU countries.
How Long Does EORI Registration Take?
Processing times vary by country. Belgium typically processes EORI applications within 3โ5 business days. Germany can take 1โ3 weeks. France processes applications within 5 business days. In most cases, registration is free of charge. Once registered, your EORI number is valid across all EU member states โ you do not need to register separately in each country.
EORI and AEO โ Authorised Economic Operator
EORI registration is a prerequisite for applying for AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) status, the EU's "trusted trader" program. AEO status provides simplified customs procedures, priority treatment, and fewer physical checks. It is particularly valuable for businesses with high import/export volumes. AEO applications are submitted via the national customs authority after obtaining an EORI number.