Proof of Union Status (PoUS) for applying for union status certificates T2L and T2LF
From 1 March 2024, you must apply for union status certificates T2L and T2LF in the new EU Proof of Union Status system. This is done via the EU Customs Trader Portal.
Proof of Union Status is a European information system with which Customs issues and checks T2L(F) union status certificates.
Timeline
The system is introduced in 2 phases:
- phase 1: replacing the paper T2L and T2LF document
This phase was completed on 1 March 2024. - phase 2: introduction of the electronic Customs Goods Manifest
You can then apply for and check union status certificates for multiple shipments and goods. This phase will be completed in the third quarter of 2025.
Fill-in instruction Proof of Union Status (PoUS)
The 'Fill-in instruction Proof of Union Status (PoUS)' (only in Dutch) explains exactly how to apply for union status certificates T2L and T2LF in the Proof of Union Status. See also the e-learning 'Proof of Union Status System for Economic operators'.
Certificates in central database
Each union status certificate requested in the new system will receive a Master Reference Number (MRN). The issued certificates are stored in a central database and are therefore available in all Member States. When importing Union goods, you must report the MRN to the competent customs authority of the country where the goods enter.
How will it affect you?
After 1 March 2024, you can no longer use paper documents with the union goods status. If you are a T2L(F) (ACP) authorised issuer holder of the authorisation, you can no longer issue T2L documents on paper.
eHerkenning required
To use the PoUS system, you must be able to log in to the EU Customs Trader Portal. For this, you need level-3 eHerkenning.
If you do not yet have level-3 eHerkenning, please ask a supplier. Please note that it may take a few days before you receive eHerkenning.