EORI number in Estonia ✅ is an essential registration for businesses involved in international trade. If your Estonian company plans to import goods into the European Union or export goods out of the EU, you will need an EORI number. 📦Eesti Firma, a recognized expert in company formation in Estonia and accounting services, shares detailed insights and professional guidance regarding the EORI number on this page.
EORI Number Explained: Essential for EU Customs Operations
For companies engaged in international trade or other customs related activities, having an EORI number is essential. 📌 This unique identification number (also known as an EORI code) allows customs authorities across the European Union to identify your business during import and export operations. It simplifies customs procedures 🛃 and paperwork by linking all your customs information to one number.
The EORI number is required to conduct foreign trade operations within the European Union, 🔑 including undergoing customs procedures in the EU member states, as well as receiving permissions for export or import of goods. Also, the EORI number is required for issuance of customs import declarations and payment of customs duties, levies and taxes. 💶
Apply for an EORI number
If you import goods to the territory of the EU or 🚚 export the goods manufactured in the EU to third countries, 🌐 most probably, your company will need the EORI number to undergo customs procedures.
EORI Registration in Estonia
Need an EORI number in Estonia 📝 for your business activities? We’ll take care of the process quickly and smoothly — contact us today to get started! 🚀
In this guide, we explain what an EORI number is, who needs one, how the EU EORI system works, and how to apply for an EORI number in Estonia. We also cover how long the process takes, what the number looks like, and why getting professional assistance can be beneficial.
What is an EORI Number?
EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification – this is a special registration and identification number used throughout the customs territory of the European Union to identify businesses and individuals (economic operators) in customs dealings.
The EORI number 🔎 is a unique identification number provided to companies and individuals (economic operators) involved in the activities related to export or import of goods from or to the territory of the European Union.
The EORI number is used for identification of economic operators and makes the data exchange between enterprises and customs authorities easier. 🌍
In practice, it is a unique number assigned by a country’s customs authority to a company or other entity (including a natural person acting as a business) for use in all customs-related activities. All EU customs authorities and systems use this number to recognize you, which makes data exchange between enterprises and customs much easier.
EORI Number: A Must-Have for EU Importers and Exporters
Importantly, the EORI number is mandatory for economic operators engaged in importing goods, exporting goods, transit, or other customs operations involving the EU. In other words, any company or private individual involved in foreign trade or international trade of goods with countries outside the EU (or into the EU) will need an EORI registration. Without an EORI, you generally cannot file official customs declarations or get goods through EU customs clearance.
Who Needs an EORI Number and Why?
If your business is involved in trading goods across borders, you need an EORI number. This requirement applies to Estonian companies as well as foreign businesses when dealing with EU customs:
- Businesses in the EU: Any company established in an EU country (such as an Estonian company) must have an EORI number if it engages in customs-related activities (for example, to import goods from or export goods to non EU countries). The EORI number will be used for all customs paperwork like import/export declarations, paying duties and taxes, and obtaining permits for shipments within the EU. It serves as a unique identification number that is recognized by customs authorities in all EU member states.
- Businesses outside the EU: Companies from third countries (i.e. outside the EU) that want to trade with or within the EU also need an EORI number. A foreign (non-EU) company will register for an EORI in the first EU member state where it carries out customs operations. For example, if a company from the U.S. first imports goods into Estonia, it can obtain an EORI number in Estonia which will then be valid throughout the EU.
Even private individuals or sole traders who frequently import or export goods for business purposes may need to register for an EORI. The EORI system ensures that every economic entity engaging in cross-border trade is identifiable with one unique number across the European Union. This helps streamline customs procedures and enables EU customs authorities to process shipments efficiently.
One EORI Number for All EU Member States
One great advantage of the EORI system is that it provides a single, standardized registration across all EU countries. You only need to apply for an EORI once, and that same number is valid for customs operations in other member states within the EU.
You do not need separate EORI numbers for different EU countries – your Estonian EORI will be recognized by customs in every EU country.
- Issued by National Customs Authority: An EORI number is issued by the customs authority of the EU country where your business is established. In Estonia, the number is issued by the Estonian Tax and Customs Board (the national customs authority). If your company is based in Estonia, the Estonian Tax and Customs Board (sometimes called the customs board) will assign your EORI. This number is issued for an indefinite period – it does not expire.
- Format of the EORI Number: Every EORI number includes a country code followed by a unique identifier. Estonia’s EORI numbers begin with the prefix “
EE” (indicating Estonia), followed by a string of digits (and in some cases letters) that is unique to your business. Often, this identifier may incorporate your company’s registration or VAT number. For example, an Estonian company with registration code 12345678 might have an EORI like EE12345678. The EORI code is a unique identification number for your company across all EU customs systems.- One Number per Operator: Each economic operator (business or person) can only have one EORI number. You will use the same EORI code for all your customs operations in any EU country. If your business has branches in multiple countries, those branches will use the parent company’s EORI number (a branch does not get a separate EORI). However, if your business has distinct legal entities (for example, an Estonian subsidiary of a foreign parent company), each entity needs its own EORI registration.
The bottom line is that an EORI is a unique code that travels with your business wherever you interact with EU customs. It simplifies dealings with different EU customs authorities because they can all refer to the same registration and identification number in the EORI system.
How to Obtain an EORI Number in Estonia
In Estonia obtaining an EORI number is a straightforward process. The EORI registration process can be completed either online or in person, and the number is usually issued very quickly (often within one working day). Before you start, ensure that your business meets the basic requirements – notably, having a VAT registration. In fact, registering for VAT is generally required before you apply for an EORI in Estonia. If your company is not yet VAT-registered (either in Estonia or another EU member state), you should complete the VAT registration first, as a VAT number may be needed on the EORI application.
Once you are ready, you can apply for your EORI number through one of the following methods:
- Apply online via the e-MTA portal: The fastest way to get an EORI number in Estonia is by using the Estonian Tax and Customs Board’s e-service portal (e-MTA). Log in to the electronic environment using your ID card, Mobile-ID, Smart ID, or e-Residency card credentials. After logging in, navigate to the customs section (for example, go to Customs – Rights and Obligations – EORI registration) and fill out the electronic application form for EORI. Submit the form with the required details (company information, contact, unique identification number like registry code or VAT, etc.). You will receive confirmation and can receive updates on your application status through the e-MTA system. The Tax and Customs Board will process the request and assign the EORI number.
- Apply in person at a customs office: You can also submit an EORI application form in person by visiting a service bureau or customs department office of the Estonian Tax and Customs Board. The form (available from the customs authorities) needs to be filled out with your company’s details. An official will verify your documents (such as your ID and company registry information) and process the application. This method is useful if you prefer face-to-face assistance or if you cannot use the electronic portal.
- Authorize a representative to apply: If you prefer, you may use a professional service provider (such as an accountant or lawyer) to handle the EORI registration on your behalf. By granting a power of attorney, your representative can prepare and submit the application through the appropriate channel. This is convenient for foreign entrepreneurs or anyone who is unfamiliar with the Estonian electronic systems. Eesti Firma’s consultants, for example, can take care of the entire process for you and ensure you get your EORI number quickly and correctly.
After you submit your application (online or offline), the Estonian Tax and Customs Board will review it and assign your EORI number. The number is issued in a short time frame – usually within one business day in Estonia. Once issued, your EORI number is active immediately and can be used for all future customs operations. Remember that your EORI registration is valid indefinitely; you do not need to renew it unless your company’s details change and require an update.
Need Help Obtaining an EORI Number?
Getting an EORI number in Estonia is not complicated, but if you need assistance, Eesti Firma is here to help. If you need an EORI number for your Estonian company, or if you have questions about the process, our experienced consultants can guide you through each step. We provide support with Estonian company formation, customs procedures, and related compliance matters. We can even handle the application on your behalf so you can focus on your business.
Personalized Assistance for EORI Registration in Estonia
Contact us for personalized assistance in obtaining your EORI registration. We also offer a full range of accounting and tax services to support your business in Estonia. Additional information about our services is available on our Accounting Services page. Feel free to reach out to our team – we will ensure you receive the guidance and support needed to navigate the EORI registration and other business requirements in Estonia.
