Find GB EORI Number from VAT Number

Please answer the questionnaire below to get your EORI number based on your VAT number (if applicable).

Find your GB EORI from a UK VAT


Step 1 — Tell us if you already have a UK VAT number

Choose an option. If you select “No”, we’ll guide you to apply for a unique 12‑digit EORI.

START HERE Do you already have a UK VAT number?

Tip: If you aren’t sure, check your VAT certificate or accounting portal.

No VAT? You can’t receive a VAT‑based GB EORI, but you can apply for a unique 12‑digit EORI.

Apply for EORI You may be eligible for an EORI number anyway — see how to apply.


Step 2 — Enter your VAT number and validate with HMRC

Enter your VAT number. Examples: GB123456789 or just 123456789 (we’ll assume GB). For Northern Ireland VAT, you can use the XI prefix.
If you enter an EU‑prefixed number it will not ne recognized as valid GB EORI.

No spaces or dashes needed. The HMRC checker opens below for UK VAT numbers.

EU number detected Querying ec.europa.eu…

We’re checking this code against the European Commission EORI service. An EU EORI/VAT is not a GB EORI.
FieldValue
Why this won’t be recognized as a GB EORI:
  • The UK left the EU on 31 January 2020, and the transition ended on 31 December 2020.
  • EU EORI/VAT numbers (e.g., DE…, FR…) are issued by EU authorities for use in EU customs systems.
  • GB EORI numbers are issued by HMRC and start with GB. They are required for UK imports/exports.
  • Northern Ireland may use XI EORI for EU trade, but that is not a GB EORI. GB EORI format is strictly GB + 12 digits.
Enter VAT/EORI
Check in HMRC (UK)
Get GB EORI
Validate EORI

For a UK VAT holder, the GB EORI is: GB + your 9‑digit VAT + 000. Example: GB123456789000.

HMRC VAT Checker

Awaiting validation…

Step 3 — Your GB EORI

Your GB EORI will appear here once you’ve completed Steps 1 and 2 with a UK VAT.

Your GB EORI (based on your VAT):

Validate this GB EORI:

Validate this EORI

Note: HMRC still requires your EORI be registered/linked to your business. If in doubt, use their services to confirm registration.