Inward processing procedure
The Inward processing procedure allows you to process, modify, destroy or repair non-Union goods in the customs territory of the EU without having to pay import duties. The compensating products can then be re-exported or released for free circulation.
You do not have to pay import duties and other levies on the goods. No commercial policy measures shall be applied in so far as they do not prohibit the entry or exit of goods into or from the customs territory.
Many EU producers use non-Union goods, such as raw materials and intermediate products, in the production of semi-finished and finished goods. The Inward processing regime was created in order to create the same conditions for these EU producers as for producers in third countries. This will stimulate and develop economic activity in the EU.
The Inward processing arrangement makes the following possible:
- destruction of the non-Union good
- ensure that the non-Union goods comply to the statutory technical requirements that apply when bringing these into free circulation
Applying for an authorisation
If you wish to use the Inward processing procedure, you need an authorisation. You apply for the authorisation via the EU Trader Portal. For more information, go to the 'Completion instructions EU Trader Portal – Inward processing authorisation (IPO)' (only available in Dutch).
Does your organisation have its headquarters outside the customs territory of the Union? Only in that event you apply for an authorisation using the form 'Application for an inward processing authorisation' (only available in Dutch).
As we do not wish to lose sight of the interests of the producers within the EU, in specific cases we will examine whether as an applicant you fulfil the economic conditions.
Simplified application
In a number of cases, you can apply for this authorisation in a simplified manner. You can make this simplified application by lodging a declaration for placing goods under the procedure using the standard declaration procedure. The customs declaration shall be considered as an application for the authorisation. You then provide additional details using the 'Statement Additional information and requirements when applying for an authorisation (for a special procedure by means of declaration)'.
More information
Read more about this authorisation in the Information and general conditions and in the Customs Manual (only available in Dutch).
Cross-border authorisation
You can also apply for a cross-border authorisation for the Inward Processing procedure. More information on this can be found at the Expertise Centre for Cross-border Authorisations.
