In short: an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is a unique ID that Irish Revenue requires before you can import or export goods commercially across the EU border. If you're a first-time importer bringing products in from China, you need an EORI number before your shipment arrives, not after — without one, customs will hold your goods and you'll pay demurrage while it gets sorted out. Applying is free and usually takes 1–3 working days through Revenue's online system.

What Is an EORI Number and Do You Need One?

An EORI number identifies your business to customs authorities anywhere in the EU. Ireland issues EORI numbers through Revenue, and yours will start with "IE" followed by your VAT or tax number.

You need one if you're a business (sole trader, partnership, or company) importing goods from outside the EU — including China and Vietnam — for commercial purposes. You don't need one for genuinely personal, one-off purchases, but almost every business importer does.

How Do You Apply for an EORI Number in Ireland?

You apply directly through Revenue's eCustoms registration service using your Revenue Online Service (ROS) or myAccount login. The form asks for your business name, VAT number (if registered), address, and the type of trade you'll be doing.

If your business already has an Irish VAT number, registration is usually instant or same-day. If you're not yet VAT-registered, Revenue may ask a few extra questions, which can add a day or two.

How Long Does It Take to Get an EORI Number?

Most applications are approved within 1–3 working days. The most common cause of delay is a mismatch between the business name on the EORI application and the name Revenue already has on file for your VAT registration — double-check this before you submit.

Because approval isn't instant, apply for your EORI number as soon as you place your first order with a Chinese supplier, well before the goods ship, rather than waiting until the shipment is already in transit.

What Happens If You Import Without an EORI Number?

Your shipment gets held at the port or airport until you provide one. Depending on the carrier, you may also be charged demurrage (storage fees) for every day the container or parcel sits waiting for customs clearance. A freight forwarder can sometimes fast-track an application, but it's far cheaper and faster to have the number in hand before the goods leave China.

Do You Need a Separate EORI Number for the UK or EU?

Yes. Since Brexit, an Irish (EU) EORI number is not valid for UK customs, and a UK EORI number is not valid for EU customs. If you import into Ireland only, your Irish EORI number covers you across the whole EU. If you also import through a UK port or sell into the UK, you'll need a separate GB-prefixed EORI number from HMRC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an EORI number the same as a VAT number?

No. Your VAT number identifies you for tax purposes; your EORI number identifies you specifically to customs. In Ireland they're linked (your EORI is usually your VAT number with an "IE" prefix), but they serve different functions.

Does an EORI number expire?

No, once issued it's valid indefinitely as long as your business remains active and registered.

Can a freight forwarder use their own EORI number for my shipment?

Some can act as your customs agent, but the goods are still legally imported under your business's name, so Revenue generally expects the importer of record to hold their own EORI number.

Do I need an EORI number to import samples from China?

If the samples are for commercial evaluation and cross the customs border, yes, technically you do — though customs is far less likely to hold a small, low-value sample parcel than a full commercial shipment.

How much does it cost to get an EORI number?

Nothing. Registration through Revenue is completely free.

How Epic Sourcing Helps

Epic Sourcing's Irish clients get guidance on every piece of paperwork — EORI, customs declarations, and duty calculations — before their first shipment ever leaves China, so nothing gets held up at the port. Get in touch and we'll walk you through exactly what you need before you place your first order — no pressure, no obligation.

Related reading: Customs Clearance from China to Ireland · Import Duty & VAT from China to Ireland · How to Pay a Chinese Supplier from Ireland · How to Find a Sourcing Agent in Ireland · How to Send Money to China: Payment Methods Compared

Last updated: September 27, 2026