How do I become an authorised CBAM declarant?

Short answer: Anyone bringing CBAM goods into the EU since 1 January 2026 needs authorised CBAM declarant status. The application was due by 31 March 2026; you then buy CBAM certificates and file an annual declaration.

When it applies and to whom

CBAM (Regulation (EU) 2023/956) has been in its definitive phase since 1 January 2026. The status applies to importers of CBAM goods: iron and steel, aluminium, cement, fertilisers, electricity and hydrogen. A de-minimis applies: importers bringing in under 50 tonnes of CBAM goods per year are exempt (a simplification from the Omnibus package). Above that threshold, you need declarant status to import the goods compliantly.

The steps to declarant status

The application for authorised CBAM declarant status was due by 31 March 2026 with the competent authority. With that status, you may import CBAM goods. After that:

• Buy CBAM certificates for the embedded CO₂ of the imported goods.
• File your annual declaration: the first CBAM declaration (for 2026) is due by 30 September 2027.

What to arrange now

CBAM is not a pure customs formality. The declaration requires emissions data from your suppliers — the embedded CO₂ of the producer. So set up a process to request and record that data systematically, so your certificates are correct and the annual declaration adds up. For importers, freight forwarders and customs agents this means: securing declarant status and setting up the supply chain for emissions data. Without both, you cannot import the goods compliantly and on time.

Read the main file: CBAM: carbon border levy on imports. Or take the Transport & Logistics scan.