EORI Number in United Kingdom

An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number identifies your business to customs across the EU. This page explains the United Kingdom EORI format, how to get one from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), and lets you validate any number instantly.

Note: GB EORIs are issued and validated by HMRC — not the EU EORI/EOS registry.

United Kingdom EORI format

A GB EORI is GB followed by 12 digits — for VAT-registered businesses, usually the 9-digit VAT number plus 000.

How to get an EORI number in United Kingdom

1. Confirm your business is established in United Kingdom (or has the required customs registration there).
2. Apply on gov.uk with a Government Gateway account — most applications are processed immediately, some within about five working days.
3. Have your VAT number (if registered), Unique Taxpayer Reference, company name and address ready.
4. Receive your EORI number — usually within a few working days — and validate it below before your first declaration.

Official source: HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).

Cost, validity and processing time

• A GB EORI is free of charge from HMRC, applied for on gov.uk.
• It covers customs declarations in Great Britain. It is not valid as an EU EORI — if your business also lodges declarations in the EU, you need a separate EU EORI from the member state where you first declare.
• For goods moving to or from Northern Ireland you may additionally need an XI EORI.
• Most GB EORI applications are processed immediately; allow up to five working days.

Frequently asked questions

Can I check a GB EORI in the EU EORI database?

No — since Brexit, GB EORIs are validated with HMRC's own checker, not the EU registry. The validator on this page routes GB numbers to the correct service automatically.

Do I need an EORI number to import into United Kingdom?

Yes. Any business lodging a customs declaration in United Kingdom — importing or exporting goods — needs a valid EORI number registered with the customs authority.

Where do I register for an EORI number in United Kingdom?

EORI numbers for United Kingdom are issued by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). You apply through their online customs registration service.

How do I check if an EORI number is valid?

Use the free EORI checker on this page. It validates the number in real time against the official European Commission EORI service and returns the registered trader where publicly consented.

Related tools

EORI ValidatorTariff & duty lookupHS Classifier

EORI numbers in other countries

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This page provides general guidance only — it is not legal or customs advice and may be incomplete or out of date. Always confirm EORI requirements and validate any EORI number with the official European Commission EORI service and the relevant national customs authority before relying on them.