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    Questions and Answers about Proof of Union Status (PoUS)

    Proof of Union Status is the new European information system with which Customs issues and checks T2L(F) union status certificates.

    This page sets out the frequently asked questions about this system.

    Authorisation

    • Does the 'Authorised issuer authorisation T2L(F) (ACP)' expire due to the digitisation of the union status certificate?

      No. The 'Authorised issuer authorisation T2L(F) (ACP)', or self-issue union status authorisation, remains in place. The procedure for applying for or checking this authorisation remains the same. But instead of the holder of the authorisation now printing out a paper version of the T2L(F), this will run via the PoUS system from 1 March 2024.

      After your application in the new system, you will receive a Master Reference Number (MRN). This is done without the intervention of Customs. You can use this MRN to demonstrate the union status of goods. In addition, you can always look up the status of the application via the EU Portal. We can also check the union status certificate with the MRN. From 1 March 2024, carriers must show an MRN instead of a paper T2L(F).

    • What are the conditions of an 'Authorised issuer authorisation T2L(F) (ACP)'?

      The conditions of an 'Authorised issuer authorisation T2L(F) (ACP)' can be found at 'Douanevervoer: formulieren, toelichtingen en brochures' (only available in Dutch).

    • Can our company submit and manage T2L(F) applications for other companies in its own name via the EU Customs Trader Portal?

      If your company has an 'Authorised issuer authorisation T2L(F) (ACP)', you may use this authorisation for goods from third parties, private individuals or companies. Your company must meet conditions, such as regularly issuing status certificates and keeping records that we can check. NB All applications for issue and responsibilities will then be in the name of your company.

    • Can I use invoices as status certificates?

      Legislation states that from the start of PoUS, invoices and transport documents cannot be used as status certificates for shipments greater than or equal to € 15.000. From 1 March 2024, those goods require an application for the issuing of a T2L in PoUS.

      For shipments under the limit of € 15.000, it is still possible to use an invoice or transport document as status certificate. These status certificates remain outside PoUS.

    EU Customs Trader Portal and eHerkenning

    • Where can I log in to apply for the new union status certificate from 1 March 2024?

      From 1 March 2024, you must log in via the EU Customs Trader Portal to use the new PoUS system. You can use this to apply for the new union status certificate, previously the T2L(F). Visit 'Log in for customs matters' for more information about the EU Customs Trader Portal (only available in Dutch).

    • How do my colleagues get access to the EU Customs Trader Portal?

      Your colleagues can gain access to the EU Customs Trader Portal via eHerkenning. Your organisation can apply for eHerkenning through one of the eHerkenning suppliers. More information about eHerkenning can be found on the eHerkenning website or 'This is how eHerkenning works'.

    • How do I generate T2L(F) documents via the EU Customs Trader Portal?

      The 'Invulinstructie Proof of Union Status (PoUS) - Uniestatusbewijzen T2L en T2LF' (only in Dutch) explains exactly how to apply for union status certificates T2L and T2LF in the new EU Proof of Union Status. This is done in the EU Customs Trader Portal.

      See also the e-learning 'Proof of Union Status System for Economic operators'.

    • How can my company manage authorisations with eHerkenning?

      If you want to authorise a person on behalf of your company, this must be done via an authorised signatory or via an authorisation manager. An authorisation manager must first be appointed by an authorised person within your company. For more information about authorisations, please visit the website of eHerkenning.

    • Do all documents have to be issued digitally via the PoUS system?

      No, only the T2L and T2LF will be issued online via the PoUS system from 1 March 2024. From the third quarter of 2025, this also applies to the customs manifest. In the system you will find options to add digital attachments.

    • Is it possible to protect areas in the EU Customs Trader Portal?

      Yes, you can protect areas. This can be done via the company administrator or authorisation manager of eHerkenning within your company. For more information about this, visit the eHerkenning website or contact the eHerkenning supplier to which your company is affiliated.

    Link PoUS and other software

    • Can customs software suppliers link the electronic Customs Goods Manifest with the PoUS system?

      We are investigating this in the developments of the Customs Goods Manifesto. Please note, this phase will apply from the third quarter of 2025.

    • Is it possible to exchange messages via EDI or API?

      No, that is not yet possible from the first phase. Several Member States have indicated that this should be possible. We are considering this request. If possible, we will add this later. It is not yet clear when this will happen.

    • Is it possible to link PoUS to software from a software supplier such as Portbase or Softpak?

      No, this is not yet possible from 1 March 2024. Several Member States have indicated that this should be possible. We are considering this request. If possible, we will add this later. It is not yet clear when this will happen.