Key Takeaways
- EUR1 certificates prove the origin of goods exported from the UK to countries with preferential trade agreements, allowing importers to claim reduced or nil Customs Duty rates at destination
- UK exporters obtain EUR1 certificates from local Chambers of Commerce or the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, with fees charged per certificate
- Digital PDF applications to HMRC’s National Clearance Hub receive endorsed certificates within 48 hours; paper routes take longer
- Before applying, you must classify goods with the correct commodity code, confirm trade agreement coverage, and verify the goods meet rules of origin requirements
- Origin declarations on commercial invoices can substitute for EUR1 certificates in many cases, particularly for consignments below €6,000
- Supporting documents and proof of origin records must be retained for at least 4 years (5 years for South Korea exports)
What Is an EUR1 Movement Certificate?
An EUR1 movement certificate is a trade document that proves the economic origin of goods exported from the United Kingdom to countries with which the UK has a preferential trade agreement. When an importer presents a valid EUR1 certificate to their local customs authority, they can claim reduced or zero rates of Customs Duty that would otherwise apply under standard Most Favoured Nation (MFN) tariff rates.
The certificate does not change who pays the duty — that remains the importer’s responsibility — but it unlocks preferential rates negotiated under bilateral or multilateral trade agreements. For high-value shipments or goods with high MFN duty rates, the savings can be substantial. A 12% duty rate reduced to 0% on a £50,000 consignment represents a £6,000 saving that directly improves the competitiveness of UK exports in that market.
There are two forms in circulation. The standard EUR1 uses form C1299 and applies to bilateral preference claims between the UK and a single partner country. The EUR-MED uses form C1300 and operates under the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean (PEM) cumulation system, which allows diagonal cumulation across multiple participating countries. If your goods incorporate materials from several PEM countries, the EUR-MED records this preferential trade flow correctly.
The UK currently maintains 39 trade agreements with 73 partners as of September 2025, according to the Department for Business and Trade. These include the Trade and Cooperation Agreement with the European Union, agreements with Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). See our UK trade agreements list for full details. Each agreement specifies its own rules of origin that goods must satisfy before an EUR1 can be issued.
When You Need an EUR1 Certificate
Not every export requires an EUR1 certificate. You need one when all three conditions are met: the destination country has a preferential trade agreement with the UK, that agreement requires formal proof of origin (rather than accepting an origin declaration), and the importer intends to claim preferential duty rates.
Some trade agreements allow exporters to use an origin declaration — also called an invoice declaration or statement on origin — printed directly on the commercial invoice or other commercial document. This is often the case for consignments below certain value thresholds, typically €6,000, though the exact threshold varies by agreement. Origin declarations are faster and cheaper than obtaining a formal EUR1 certificate, but they carry the same legal responsibility for accuracy.
Certain agreements exempt small consignments from needing any formal proof of origin at all. The specific thresholds and conditions depend on the agreement in question. For regular exporters to a particular market, it makes sense to confirm the proof-of-origin requirements with your Chamber of Commerce or review the specific agreement text on GOV.UK.
The EUR1 is most commonly required for exports to countries where the preferential duty rate differs significantly from the MFN rate and where the importing customs authority insists on formal certification. Markets in North Africa, the Middle East, and certain African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries frequently require EUR1 certificates. By contrast, exports to the European Union under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement typically use origin declarations rather than EUR1 certificates for most goods.
Before You Apply — The Three Checks
HMRC and issuing bodies expect exporters to complete three verification steps before requesting an EUR1 certificate. Skipping these checks risks rejection, delays, or — worse — certificates being issued incorrectly and later invalidated during verification checks at destination.
First, classify your goods with the correct commodity code. Use the UK Trade Tariff tool on GOV.UK to find the six-digit HS code and the full ten-digit UK commodity code. The commodity code determines which rules of origin apply to your product — see our commodity codes guide for detailed classification guidance. Different product categories have different origin criteria — some require wholly obtained status, others allow substantial transformation through specific manufacturing processes, and some use value-added thresholds. If you classify incorrectly, you may apply the wrong origin rules and issue a certificate that does not actually prove preferential origin.
Second, confirm the goods are covered by a trade agreement. Check the UK’s trade agreements collection on GOV.UK to verify that the destination country has an active preferential agreement with the UK. Not all countries do, and agreements can be suspended or terminated. The collection lists all 39 agreements with 73 partners currently in force, updated as of September 2025. If no agreement exists, an EUR1 certificate provides no benefit — the importer will pay MFN rates regardless.
Third, verify the goods meet the rules of origin. Each agreement specifies how goods qualify as “originating”. The two main pathways are: wholly obtained (goods produced entirely in the UK using UK materials) or sufficiently worked or processed (non-originating materials have undergone specified manufacturing operations or value-added thresholds). Our rules of origin explainer covers the key tests in detail. You must be able to demonstrate compliance with these rules through production records, bills of materials, and suppliers’ declarations.
Only after completing all three checks should you proceed to apply for the certificate. The issuing body — whether a Chamber of Commerce or HMRC — will expect you to confirm that these checks have been completed.
How to Get an EUR1 Certificate: Step by Step
UK exporters can obtain EUR1 certificates through two main routes: a digital PDF process via HMRC’s National Clearance Hub, or a traditional paper route. The digital route is faster and now the default option where the destination country accepts PDF copies.
Digital PDF Route (Recommended)
Where the destination country accepts PDF copies of EUR1 certificates, you can complete the process entirely electronically. Download form C1299 (for standard EUR1) or form C1300 (for EUR-MED) from GOV.UK. Complete the form on-screen using Adobe Reader — handwritten forms are not accepted for digital submissions.
Email the completed form to NCH.Movements.Digital@hmrc.gov.uk with the subject line “EUR1 endorsement” or “EUR-MED endorsement” as appropriate. Include any supporting documentation that demonstrates the goods meet the rules of origin, such as suppliers’ declarations or manufacturing records.
HMRC aims to issue an endorsed plain PDF certificate within 48 hours of receiving a complete application. The endorsed PDF is sent back to you by email. You can then forward this to your importer, who presents it to their customs authority at import. Keep a copy for your records — you must retain proof of origin documentation for at least 4 years.
Paper Route
If the destination country cannot accept PDF copies — some still require original wet-ink stamped certificates — you must request a paper C1299 form from the imports and exports helpline. Complete the form and send it by post to:
NCH MICS Team (EUR1s) 5th Floor, Three New Bailey New Bailey Street Salford M3 5FS
Processing times for paper applications are longer than the digital route. Allow at least 5-7 working days, plus postage time in each direction. For urgent shipments, the digital route is strongly preferred wherever available.
Issuing Bodies and Fees
EUR1 certificates are issued by two types of body in the UK: local Chambers of Commerce and offices of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers. Chambers of Commerce are the more common choice for most exporters, with offices in major cities across the UK.
Fees vary by issuing body and are subject to change. Typical charges range from £25 to £50 per certificate, with some Chambers offering reduced rates for members or volume discounts for frequent exporters. The fee covers the administrative cost of verifying your application and endorsing the certificate. Some Chambers offer same-day or next-day service for an additional charge.
Contact your local Chamber of Commerce in advance to confirm their current fee structure, processing times, and whether they accept digital applications or require in-person submission. Many Chambers now offer online application portals that streamline the process for regular exporters.
EUR1 vs EUR-MED: Understanding the Difference
The standard EUR1 (form C1299) and the EUR-MED (form C1300) serve different purposes within the preferential trade system. Understanding which you need prevents delays and ensures your certificate is accepted at destination.
The EUR1 is used for bilateral preference claims — where goods originate in the UK and are exported directly to a single partner country with which the UK has a trade agreement. This covers the majority of UK export scenarios.
The EUR-MED operates within the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean (PEM) cumulation system. This system allows “diagonal cumulation” — meaning materials originating in one PEM country can be incorporated into goods produced in another PEM country, and the final product can still claim preferential origin. The PEM zone includes the EU, EFTA countries, Turkey, and various Mediterranean partners.
Use an EUR-MED when your goods incorporate materials from multiple PEM countries and you need to record this preferential cumulation. The EUR-MED certificate explicitly documents the origin of all materials used, allowing the importer to claim preference even though the goods are not wholly obtained in a single country.
If you are unsure which form applies, consult your Chamber of Commerce or review the specific cumulation provisions in the relevant trade agreement. Using the wrong form can result in the certificate being rejected at import.
Special Situations: Retrospective, Duplicate, and Split Certificates
Not all EUR1 certificates are issued at the time of export. The system provides mechanisms for handling errors, lost documents, and complex shipment scenarios.
Retrospective Certificates
An EUR1 certificate can be issued retrospectively if it was not issued at the time of export due to error, oversight, or special circumstances. It can also be issued retrospectively if a certificate was issued but rejected at import for technical reasons.
Requests for retrospective certificates go through the same channels as standard applications — either your Chamber of Commerce or HMRC’s National Clearance Hub. You will need to provide a written explanation of why the certificate was not issued at the time of export. Retrospective certificates are clearly marked as such, but they carry the same legal effect as certificates issued at the time of export.
Lost, Destroyed, or Stolen Certificates
If an original EUR1 certificate is lost, destroyed, or stolen, you can request a duplicate from HMRC. The request must include a written declaration stating that the original certificate will be surrendered if it is later found.
Important: pre-printed duplicate or copy certificates that are issued simultaneously with the original cannot be used as replacements for lost originals. Only a properly requested duplicate issued after the loss is reported has legal validity.
Split Consignments
If a consignment covered by a single EUR1 certificate is split into multiple shipments, each part requires its own replacement certificate. This ensures that each portion of the goods has valid proof of origin when presented to customs. The replacement certificates reference the original certificate number and specify the quantity of goods covered by each split shipment. This prevents the same goods from being claimed multiple times under a single certificate. Contact your issuing body to arrange replacement certificates for split consignments, providing details of how the original consignment has been divided.
Origin Declarations as an Alternative
For many trade agreements, an origin declaration on a commercial document can substitute for a formal EUR1 certificate. This is often faster, cheaper, and administratively simpler for exporters.
An origin declaration is a statement printed on the commercial invoice, delivery note, or other commercial document that identifies the product and declares it originates in the UK under the relevant trade agreement. The exact wording is specified in the agreement text and must be reproduced accurately.
Origin declarations are commonly permitted for consignments below certain value thresholds — typically €6,000, though this varies by agreement. Some agreements allow origin declarations regardless of value for approved exporters who hold Authorised Exporter status.
The legal responsibility for accuracy is the same whether you use an origin declaration or an EUR1 certificate. You must be able to demonstrate that the goods meet the rules of origin if requested by HMRC or the importing country’s customs authority. Keep supporting documentation for at least 4 years.
Check the specific agreement terms on GOV.UK to confirm whether origin declarations are permitted for your destination market and product type. Where permitted, they are often the preferred option for regular exporters.
After You Get the Certificate: Record Keeping and Verification
Obtaining the EUR1 certificate is not the end of your obligations. You must maintain proper records and be prepared for verification checks.
Record Keeping Requirements
Proof of origin and all supporting documents must be retained for at least 4 years from the date of issue. For exports to South Korea specifically, records must be kept for at least 5 years. This requirement applies regardless of whether you used an EUR1 certificate or an origin declaration.
Supporting documents include:
- Production records showing how the goods were manufactured
- Bills of materials listing all components and their origins
- Invoices and accounting details
- Suppliers’ declarations confirming the origin status of materials you purchased
- Copies of the issued EUR1 certificate or origin declaration
HMRC may carry out verification checks during this period to confirm that goods claimed as originating actually meet the rules of origin. Similar checks can be initiated by the importing country’s customs authority, who will contact HMRC to verify certificates presented by their importers.
Customs Declaration Requirements
The proof of origin must be noted on the customs declaration when goods are exported. This is typically done by entering the appropriate preference code in the customs declaration system — for example, code 100 series for preferential rates under trade agreements. If using customs warehousing procedures, goods must be released to free circulation within 2 years to claim preferential rates. Failure to meet this deadline means the importer loses the preference and pays MFN rates.
The validity period of a proof of origin document depends on the specific trade agreement and type of proof. Typically, certificates are valid for 4-10 months from the date of issue. Check the agreement terms to confirm the exact validity period for your destination market. Some agreements have shorter validity windows for seasonal goods or specific product categories.
Verification Checks
If the importing country’s customs authority has reasonable doubts about the authenticity of an EUR1 certificate or the originating status of goods, they can request a verification check from HMRC. This process is initiated through the importing country’s customs administration, not directly by the importer.
HMRC will contact you to request the supporting documentation that justified the issue of the certificate. You must respond within the timeframe specified (typically 90 days) or the preference claim will be denied. This is why maintaining complete records for the full retention period is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an EUR1 certificate? For digital PDF applications submitted to HMRC’s National Clearance Hub, the stated turnaround is within 48 hours. Paper applications take longer — allow 5-7 working days plus postage time. Chambers of Commerce may offer same-day or next-day service for an additional fee.
How much does an EUR1 certificate cost? Fees vary by issuing body. Chambers of Commerce typically charge between £25 and £50 per certificate, with member discounts and volume rates available. HMRC’s digital endorsement service is free, but you still need to obtain the form and may incur Chamber fees for verification.
Can I apply for an EUR1 certificate after the goods have been exported? Yes, retrospective certificates can be issued if the certificate was not obtained at the time of export due to error, oversight, or special circumstances. You will need to provide a written explanation. The certificate will be marked as retrospective but carries the same legal effect.
What if my EUR1 certificate is lost in transit? You can request a duplicate from HMRC with a written declaration that the original will be surrendered if found. Do not use pre-printed copy certificates as replacements — only properly requested duplicates have legal validity.
Do I need an EUR1 certificate for exports to the European Union? For most goods exported to the EU under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, an origin declaration on the commercial invoice is sufficient. EUR1 certificates are generally not required for EU exports unless specifically requested by the importer or for certain product categories.
What happens if my goods don’t actually meet the rules of origin? If goods do not meet the rules of origin, you cannot legally issue an EUR1 certificate or origin declaration. Doing so exposes both you and the importer to penalties, duty recovery actions, and potential criminal prosecution for fraud. Always complete the three checks before applying.