Definition and regulatory scope
Core definitions and boundaries for EORI under the Union Customs Code framework. This page is descriptive and non-procedural.
What is an EORI number
An EORI number is an identification number, unique within the EU customs territory, assigned by a customs authority to an economic operator or another person for customs purposes. It supports consistent identification in exchanges with customs administrations.
Where it is used
- Customs declarations and related data exchanges (import, export, transit).
- Access and role management in certain EU customs online services where identification is required.
- Operational identification within customs-facing workflows across Member States.
Who needs it (high-level)
The UCC framework provides for registration of economic operators and, in certain contexts, other persons interacting with customs. Eligibility and registration triggers are implemented by customs authorities; this site does not provide application guidance.
Regulatory anchoring
EORI is established in the EU customs legal framework, including the Union Customs Code and its implementing provisions. Primary references are linked on Sources.
Boundary conditions
- No interpretation of legal obligations beyond the text of primary sources.
- No statements about processing times, acceptance criteria, or national procedures.
- No claims about whether a given identifier is assigned, active, or valid.