How to Apply for a UK GB EORI Number

This article explains how to apply for a UK GB EORI number directly through HMRC

Updated 30 days ago

If you're importing or exporting goods to or from the UK, you'll need an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number. This is a unique identifier required by UK customs; without it, your shipments may be delayed or held at the border.

Note: Applying for a UK EORI number is something you'll need to handle directly with HMRC. Kintsugi doesn't manage this process for you, but this guide covers everything you need to get it done

What You'll Need Before You Start the Application

Have the following information ready before applying for a UK GB EORI Number:

UK VAT Registration Number (VRN) and the effective date of registration (found on your VAT certificate)
Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) (only required if your business is UK-established)
Business start date
Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code (available from the Companies House register)
National Insurance number (only required if you're a sole trader or individual)

Application Steps

Step 1: Go to https://www.gov.uk/eori/apply-for-eori and click the "Start now" button.

Step 2: Sign in with your Government Gateway credentials. If you don't have an account yet, you can create one as part of this process.

Step 3: Enter your business details, including company name, registered address, UTR, and SIC code.

Step 4: Enter your VAT number and the effective date of registration.

Step 5: Submit your application.

Step 6: Receive your GB EORI number. (Note: In most cases, this is issued immediately, but if HMRC needs to run additional checks, it can take up to 5 working days.)

Step 7 (optional): Verify your EORI number at https://www.gov.uk/check-eori-number.

Key Facts

Cost	Free. HMRC does not charge a fee
Format	GB + your 9-digit VAT number + 000 (e.g., VAT 123456789 → GB123456789000)
How many do I need?	Just one. A single GB EORI covers your entire business
Processing time	Immediate in most cases; up to 5 working days if additional checks are needed

Trading in Northern Ireland?

If you move goods between Northern Ireland and the EU, you'll also need a separate XI EORI number in addition to your GB one.

You can apply for an XI EORI here.

HMRC may take up to 5 working days to issue your XI EORI.

Still Have Questions?

If you have questions about how your EORI number relates to your tax obligations, feel free to reach out to our support team.