EORI Number Validator
Validate EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) numbers for EU customs and import/export operations.
Enter EORI Number
Include 2-letter country code (e.g., DE, FR, GB, IT, NL)
Example EORI Numbers
Note: This validator checks format only. For official EORI verification, use the EU EORI database.
About EORI Numbers
EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) is a unique number assigned to businesses and individuals for customs purposes in the European Union. It's required for import/export activities.
What This Validator Checks:
- Country code is valid (EU member state)
- EORI number matches country-specific format
- Length and pattern are correct
- Does NOT verify if EORI is registered and active
- Does NOT check EU EORI database
When You Need an EORI Number:
- Importing goods into the EU
- Exporting goods from the EU
- Filing customs declarations
- Submitting EU Entry/Exit Summary declarations
- Post-Brexit UK-EU trade (separate UK EORI needed)
EORI format by country
An EORI is a two-letter country code plus a national identifier of up to 15 characters. The exact pattern depends on the issuing country — here are the most common ones in UK and EU trade:
| Country / region | Code | Format | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | GB | GB + 12 digits | GB123456789000 |
| Northern Ireland | XI | XI + 12 digits | XI123456789000 |
| Germany | DE | DE + up to 15 digits | DE123456789 |
| France | FR | FR + identifier | FRXX123456789 |
| Netherlands | NL | NL + 9 digits + B + 2 | NL123456789B01 |
| Italy | IT | IT + 11 digits | IT12345678901 |
A UK EORI is normally your VAT number with GB in front and 000 on the end. The validator supports all 27 EU states plus GB.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this check that an EORI number is registered?
No. This validator only checks the format — the country code and the digit pattern for that country. To confirm an EORI is registered and active, use the EU’s official EORI validation service (ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/eos), or HMRC’s checker for GB numbers.
What is the difference between an EORI and a VAT number?
An EORI identifies you to customs for import and export; a VAT number identifies you for tax. They are linked in many countries — a UK EORI is normally your VAT number with GB in front and 000 on the end, and Germany builds its EORI from the VAT number too — but they serve different systems and are not interchangeable.
How is an EORI number structured?
Every EORI starts with a two-letter country code, then a national identifier of up to 15 characters. A GB EORI is GB plus 12 digits (usually the 9-digit VAT number followed by 000); Northern Ireland uses the XI prefix; EU countries each append their own format. The country code is what tells customs which authority issued it.
Do I need an EORI number for UK–EU trade after Brexit?
Yes, and often two. Since Brexit you need a GB EORI for UK customs and a separate EU EORI (from any one member state) for EU customs declarations. Traders moving goods to or from Northern Ireland may also need an XI EORI. Without the right one, shipments can be held at the border.
How do I get an EORI number?
Apply through your country’s customs authority — HMRC in the UK, or the national customs body in each EU state. The process is usually free and online, you provide your business and VAT details, and the number is typically issued within a few business days. Many VAT-registered businesses are assigned one automatically.