---
title: "VAT (Value Added Tax) Number"
description: "A VAT number is the unique number that identifies a taxable person (business) or non-taxable legal entity that is registered for VAT. A VAT (value added tax) number is required to import goods into the EU or UK."
language: en
canonical: https://www.flex.thisisbrew.com/glossary/value-added-tax-number/
lifecycle: live
dateModified: 2026-08-20T06:44:14Z
topics:
  - "Customs & Compliance"
  - "Europe"
  - "Customs Brokerage"
---

# VAT (Value Added Tax) Number

A VAT number is the unique number that identifies a taxable person (business) or non-taxable legal entity that is registered for VAT. A VAT (value added tax) number is required to import goods into the EU or UK.

## What is VAT Number?

This is the unique number that identifies a taxable person (business) or non-taxable legal entity that is registered for VAT. A VAT (value added tax) number is required to import goods into the EU or UK with Flexport.

See the [European Commission's VAT identification numbers page](https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/business/vat/eu-vat-rules-topic/vat-identification-numbers_en) for more information on who needs a VAT number in the EU.

See the [UK VAT Registration page](https://www.gov.uk/vat-registration) for more information on who needs a VAT number in the UK.

### Do I need a VAT number for every EU country?

Yes. VAT numbers are country specific, so if a company is importing or exporting to multiple EU countries, they will need a VAT number for each country.

For UK imports you will need a UK specific VAT number.

### How do I request a VAT number?

VAT numbers can be requested from the local tax authorities of EU countries. Most applications can be completed online.

### When do I pay VAT?

VAT will need to be paid upon import into the EU, unless the importer has a VAT deferment license (common in the [Netherlands](https://www.flex.thisisbrew.com/company/global-network/netherlands/)).

In the UK VAT will need to be paid upon import, unless the importer is registered for Postponed VAT Accounting (PVA).

For tax guidance please consult a tax professional.

Back to the [full glossary](https://www.flex.thisisbrew.com/glossary/).

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*This is a markdown version of [https://www.flex.thisisbrew.com/glossary/value-added-tax-number/](https://www.flex.thisisbrew.com/glossary/value-added-tax-number/) for AI/LLM consumption.*