A non-EU seller gets an EU VAT number by registering with the tax authority of each EU country where VAT applies, usually because Amazon stores stock there. The process is similar to an EU company’s, but non-EU sellers often face extra steps, such as appointing a fiscal representative in some countries, and they generally cannot use the EUR 10,000 distance-selling threshold.
When a non-EU seller needs an EU VAT number
The trigger is the same as for any seller: stock held in an EU country, or sales covered by a scheme that requires registration. Read do you need a VAT number to sell on Amazon in Europe for the decision path.
Steps to get an EU VAT number
- Map where your stock will be and limit it if you can.
- Prepare documents: company registration, director identification, proof of address and a description of the activity, in the language or translation the country requires.
- Check representative rules. Some countries expect or require a fiscal representative for non-EU businesses.
- Register with each tax authority and keep the confirmation.
- File returns on schedule in every country.
The alternative: an EU company
Some non-EU sellers set up a company inside the EU to simplify filings and Amazon verification. This has its own costs and tax effects. See the Estonian company for ecommerce guide and US LLC or Estonian company for Amazon FBA.
How Data Biz helps
We handle registrations and filings across several EU countries and keep the official proof of each. Book a free consultation.