The EORI (Economic Operators’ Registration and Identification) number is an operator identification number that is valid throughout the European Union and replaces the German customs number.
The EORI number is comparable to the German VAT number. This was determined to simplify the general taxpayer identification system applicable to the EU level.
The EORI numbers are a code that uniquely identifies each particular private person, legal entity, and company.
Immediately you conduct customs transactions in the European Union and beyond, you require an EORI number.
Who needs the economic operators’ registration and Identification (EORI) number in Germany?
All german private persons, legal person, company, and carrier who transports across borders in Europe needs their own EORI number in Germany. This number can then be used throughout the EU, meaning a German EORI number is valid throughout the European Union.
The EORI number is mandatory for players in foreign economic activities involved in import, transit, and export. One person or company can have only one EORI number, which must be used for any customs-related activity in the EU.
Companies that are situated on European Union territory are authorized the EORI number by the customs authorities of the member state in which they are established and registered. Businesses located outside the EU can also obtain an EORI number in Germany.
Subsidiaries of international companies that are located in another European country do not have to obtain their own EORI number. Also, companies that only transport a small number of cross-border goods do not need to apply for an EORI number.
How can my German company obtain the Eori number?
Although the EORI Number is mandatory for many companies, is not automatically allocated, you have to apply for it. The EORI number in Germany can be applied for by post, fax, or email to the German Customs Information and Knowledge Management or by using the Portal on the Zoll website. To use this portal companies need to gain the mandatory ELSTER-issued certificate for security purposes. This certificate is usable for companies and for private individuals. Also, applicants for an EORI number can apply by using the 0870 form. The application procedure is not subject to extra costs but it does impose an electronic signature and the necessary documentation.
The documents required when applying for an EORI number in Germany
In addition to the certain form, the following documents must be provided when applying for EORI registration in Germany:
- a valid identification document,
- an extract from the German Companies Register for companies, or
- a business registration number for sole traders.
You can also have a company representative lodge the application for an EORI number.
It takes usually a few weeks to get an EORI Number if you have a registered entity in Germany.
The EORI number for a branch office in Germany
Special provisions apply to branches in Germany considering the authorization of the EORI number. Because branches do not have legal capacity, the legal application is to be submitted by the headquarters that possess a legal capacity.
When applying for the EORI number of a branch, the form will contain information on the branch number, the name of the company and the branch, the business address, and the EORI number of the head office. The data concerning the registration of the headquarters with the trade register is also submitted.
The EORI number in Germany for a branch can be informed through a special form, as specified by the authorities.
To carry out activities that are impacted by customs law, an EORI number is needed. This means that the number should be applied on time and not after the start of the activity.
Are you ready to register your company in Germany or do you need help with some of the formalities attached to it? – Let’s go ahead and contact your Damalion expert now.
