🎯 Who needs an EORI number in Poland?

An EORI number is mandatory for:

Important: An EORI number is required even for a one-time import or export operation. If you plan to import goods from outside the EU even once, obtain the number in advance.

⚠️ What happens if you don’t have an EORI?

There is no direct penalty for not having an EORI in Polish law. However, the practical consequences are much more serious than any fine:

❌ Goods will not clear customs. The customs authority will simply not accept the declaration without an EORI number

❌ Goods will get “stuck” at the border. While you are processing the number, the goods will remain in a temporary storage warehouse

❌ Storage costs will accumulate. Every day of downtime = additional invoices from the warehouse and logistics provider

❌ Delivery deadlines will be missed. Counterparties may impose penalties for delays or refuse cooperation

Conclusion: EORI should be obtained before the first shipment, not when the goods are already approaching the border.

🔢 What does an EORI number look like in Poland?

The number format depends on the company type:

For Polish companies, the EORI number is strictly linked to the NIP (tax identification number). If you already have a NIP, the EORI number will be based on it.

🖥️ How to obtain an EORI number in Poland? Step-by-step instructions

The procedure is entirely electronic and free of charge. All actions are performed on the PUESC platform (Platforma Usług Elektronicznych Skarbowo-Celnych).

Step 1. Register a personal account on PUESC

Go to puesc.gov.pl and create an account. This can be done by:

• A board member

• An authorized representative (with power of attorney)

When registering, provide your details (name, surname, PESEL, email, phone). An activation link will be sent to your email.

Important: When choosing the registration purpose, select “Chcę powiązać się z firmą” (I want to link with a company) — this is necessary to obtain an EORI.

Step 2. Obtain an SISC ID

After activating your account, you need to register yourself as a natural person in the SISC system (System Informacyjny Skarbowo-Celny).

To do this:

1. In the “Formularze” → “eFormularze” section, select “Rejestracja_Osoby_Fizycznej”.

2. Fill out the form, sign it, and submit it.

3. After processing, you will receive a unique SISC ID number.

For signing, you can use:

• Profil Zaufany (Trusted Profile)

• Qualified electronic signature

• Customs certificate (if the first two are not available)

Step 3. Register the company and apply for EORI

This is a key stage. Log in to your account and select the form WRP0001 Rejestracja danych firmy [SZPROT].

When filling out:

• Provide all company details (NIP, REGON, KRS, name, address, PKD codes)

• In the “Obszar działania” field, be sure to select “Cło (EORI)”

• Check the box “czy nadać numer EORI”

Important clarification: If the application is submitted by a person not legally authorized to represent the company (e.g., not the owner or a board member), the following must be attached to the application:

• Electronic power of attorney (pełnomocnictwo)

• Proof of payment of the stamp duty (opłata skarbowa) — approximately 17 zł

• Original documents must be sent by mail or delivered in person to Izba Administracji Skarbowej w Poznaniu

Step 4. Await the decision

Submit the completed and signed form to the system. The processing time is usually 1 to 3 business days.

The EORI number will arrive as an official message in the “Moje dokumenty” → “Odebrane” section of your PUESC account.

⏱️ How long does it take to get an EORI number?

💡 Important nuances (what to pay attention to)

1️⃣ EORI is needed BEFORE the first shipment

Don’t wait until the goods arrive at the border. Obtain the number in advance. It’s free and only takes a couple of days.

2️⃣ One number for the entire EU

If you already have an EORI obtained in another EU country, you do not need to get a new one in Poland. It is sufficient to register the company on PUESC, indicating the existing number.

3️⃣ EU companies do not obtain EORI in Poland

If your company is registered in another EU country (e.g., Lithuania or Germany), Polish authorities will not assign you a number. You should contact the customs office in your own country.

4️⃣ Counterparty verification

Before concluding a contract with a new supplier or buyer from abroad, always check if they have an EORI. This can be done in the open database on the European Commission website.

5️⃣ Visa-free trade with Ukraine and Great Britain

Even if goods come from countries with which the EU has special agreements (like Ukraine or Great Britain after Brexit), an EORI is still required for customs clearance.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need an EORI if I only buy goods in Poland for my business in Belarus or Russia?

Yes, if you export goods outside the EU, an EORI is mandatory.

Is NIP required to obtain EORI?

For a Polish company — yes, EORI is linked to NIP. For a foreign company from a third country — it can be obtained without a Polish NIP, but then the number format will be different (with a Z at the end).

Is there a state fee for obtaining EORI?

The EORI registration itself is free of charge. Payment may only be required for processing a power of attorney (approximately 17 zł), if the application is submitted by a representative.

What to do if the goods are already in transit, but there is no EORI?

Urgently submit an application and contact lawyers for acceleration. In some cases, it may be possible to arrange temporary documents, but it is best to avoid this situation.

🏁 Conclusion

The EORI number in Poland is not just a formality, but a necessary tool for international trade. Without it, your business simply cannot cross the EU border. The obtaining procedure is straightforward, fully electronic, and free of charge. The main thing is not to postpone it until the last moment and prepare all documents in advance.

If you don’t have time to deal with the PUESC platform, fill out forms, and track statuses, entrust this task to professionals. We will help you obtain an EORI quickly and without errors — often within a few hours.

Need an EORI number for your business? Contact us — we’ll handle it quickly and comprehensively!