Each EU member state and the UK has its own EORI registration system with specific format requirements, processing times, and application procedures. This guide provides detailed information for the major trading nations in Europe, helping you understand and work with EORI numbers from these countries.
Understanding country-specific formats is essential for businesses engaged in international trade, customs brokers, and freight forwarders who handle documentation from multiple countries on a daily basis.
Germany has one of the longest EORI formats in the EU at 17 characters total. The German customs authority (Zoll) assigns EORI numbers through the Generalzolldirektion.
DE + 15 alphanumeric characters
Example: DE123456789012345
The German EORI does not directly correspond to the VAT number (Umsatzsteuer-ID). It is assigned as a completely separate identifier by customs. Businesses must apply specifically for an EORI number even if they already have a VAT registration.
France has one of the fastest EORI processing times in the EU, often issuing numbers within hours. The French EORI is managed by the Direction Générale des Douanes et Droits Indirects.
FR + 14 characters (often SIREN-based)
Example: FR12345678901234
French EORI numbers are often based on the SIREN company registration number. For businesses already registered in France, the EORI application process is typically very quick as the customs authority can verify existing company data.
Spanish EORI numbers follow the same format as the Spanish VAT identification number (NIF/CIF). The EORI is managed by the Agencia Tributaria (Tax Agency).
ES + NIF/CIF format (letter + 8 chars)
Example: ESA12345678 or ES12345678X
If a business already has a Spanish tax identification number (NIF), the EORI registration is straightforward and typically takes about 5 working days. Without an existing NIF, the process takes longer as tax registration must be completed first.
The Netherlands has a relatively straightforward EORI system. Dutch EORI numbers are often based on the fiscal number (RSIN) and are managed by Dutch Customs (Douane).
NL + 9 digits (typically fiscal code)
Example: NL123456789
The Netherlands is a major gateway for goods entering the EU, making Dutch EORI numbers common in international trade. The 9-digit format after NL often represents the company's fiscal code (RSIN), though some numbers may be longer.
Italian EORI numbers correspond directly to the Partita IVA (VAT number). The system is managed by the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (Customs and Monopolies Agency).
IT + 11 digits (Partita IVA)
Example: IT12345678901
For Italian businesses with an existing Partita IVA, the EORI number will be IT followed by the 11-digit VAT number. This creates a direct link between tax and customs registration.
Since Brexit, the UK operates two separate EORI prefixes: GB for Great Britain and XI for Northern Ireland. The system is managed by HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs).
GB + 12 digits (VAT number + 000)
XI + 12 digits (Northern Ireland)
Example: GB123456789000 or XI123456789000
UK businesses may need both GB and XI EORI numbers depending on their trade activities. GB EORI is required for all UK trade with non-UK countries. XI EORI is needed for businesses moving goods between Northern Ireland and the EU under preferential terms.
EORI registration times vary significantly by country. Here's a quick comparison to help you plan your trade activities:
| Country | Typical Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| France | Hours | Fastest in EU |
| UK (VAT reg.) | Immediate | Auto-issued |
| Netherlands | 1-5 days | Depends on origin |
| Spain | 5 working days | With existing NIF |
| Italy | 1-2 weeks | Variable |
| Germany | Up to 3 weeks | Longest in EU |
