In 2009, the European Union launched the Economic Operators Registration Identification (EORI) system. The EORI system’s main objective is to provide each economic operator who cooperates with a customs authority in the European Union with a distinct registration number. All businesses and sole proprietors conducting cross-border business in Cyprus are required to obtain an EORI reference number. To prevent adjustments to the tax and customs operating systems, the identity is like the Cypriot VAT number. Both Cypriot exporters and importers are given the code, which is used to submit entry and departure declarations with customs authorities for shipments into and out of the European Union. All EU Customs authorities are shown the EORI number, and the system is connected.
Who needs to register
The identity is granted following EU Regulation (EEC) No. 2913/92, which applies to all economic operators, or people and businesses in Cyprus that conduct customs operations inside the EU. Upon their initial contact with the customs officials in a member country, foreign individuals and businesses conducting business on EU territory must also get their identity. No matter the nation or provenance, it’s crucial to keep in mind that all businesses kinds, including sole proprietorships and people without a recognized legal business using their names, must comply with these criteria to obtain an EORI number. The VAT number is the primary need upon which the EORI number is granted.
How it is assigned
All Cypriot businesses and sole proprietors engaged in cross-border trade must register with the Customs and Excise Department and apply for the code. Local businesses are required to submit a C1000 form to the Department. In addition, Cyprus permits non-EU business entities to register there even if they have not yet requested it. They must submit forms C1000 and C1000D to obtain the reference number, and once they do, the code they receive will be valid throughout the entire European Union.
Registration-related activities
When the code is granted, many of the tasks that need to be finished on Cypriot soil are linked to customs processes. The time needed to complete various tasks with the authorities will typically need to be significantly reduced because of these procedures. The following are the primary tasks that can be carried out in Cyprus based on EORI registration:
- make a customs statement and summary with Cypriot Customs or another EU member
- During temporary entrance import processes, file exit, and entry summary statements
- establish temporary storage facilities on Cyprus’s or other EU member states’ soil
- Apply for Customs authorizations and certifications, including AEO certificates.
- Import-export activities require the identity
It is significant to remember that, regardless of the member state from where they were granted, established businesses in the EU and non-EU are both permitted to carry out the same customs activities using their EORI numbers.
Documents needed
When requesting the identity in Cyprus, sole proprietors must provide the following documentation: a copy of their passport or identification card, as well as, if applicable, the VAT registration certificate Cypriot businesses must submit some documents, including a copy of their certificate of incorporation, a copy of their directors’ certification, and a copy of their certificate of VAT registration. A power of attorney or other certification must be provided if a representative is appointed. In Cyprus, foreign businesses seeking an EORI number must submit the same paperwork as domestic businesses. Application processing for EORI number registration takes one to five days.
Foreign businesses requesting EORI registration in Cyprus
Foreign nationals, sole proprietors, and businesses from non-EU countries who conduct business with Cypriot entities must apply for EORI numbers. These numbers are necessary to complete the application forms that must be submitted to the Customs authorities. Those who don’t have one can immediately request one from Cyprus Customs. The applicant’s valid identification document or passport and the VAT number issued in their home country are required papers for EORI registration as a non-EU firm. It is helpful to know that non-EU entities can register for the EORI using email as well. The fact that these numbers will begin with Cyprus’ country code CY is another significant factor to consider if overseas individuals or businesses acquire EORI numbers in Cyprus. The figures will nonetheless be valid throughout the entire EU.
