Inward processing · EU customs procedure
Inward processing allows works on a non-Union vessel with VAT and customs duties suspended, subject to re-export outside the Union.
Inward processing is a European customs procedure. It allows work to be carried out on non-Union goods with customs duties and VAT suspended, provided the vessel is re-exported outside the Union once the works are complete.
On a six-figure refit, the arithmetic speaks for itself. It is a lawful mechanism, framed by the Union Customs Code, and routinely used by European repair yards — far less often explained to owners.
The procedure
Our partner broker's file-handling and customs-representation fees, quoted case by case and integrated into your refit quote. A customs guarantee may be required, sized on the suspended duties and taxes.
Plan ahead: the procedure is opened before the vessel arrives. Working under our partner's existing authorisation, allow a few weeks. Applying for an authorisation of your own takes several weeks to several months.
We carry the works. Our broker carries the procedure.
Nexus Marine operates with a partner customs broker who holds the authorisation and the customs liability. You deal with one contact, one quote and one schedule — the customs mechanics happen behind the scenes.
The mechanism applies to vessels with non-Union flag and status : US, post-Brexit UK, Cayman, Marshall Islands and Antigua registrations, among others. That is a significant share of the owners of 15 to 25 metre multihulls cruising the Mediterranean without being established there for tax purposes.
If you are unsure where your boat stands, that is exactly what we verify at step one — with no commitment.
Information provided for guidance only; it does not constitute tax or customs advice. Eligibility is confirmed case by case by our partner customs broker before any commitment, on the basis of the vessel's flag, customs status and intended use. The temporary admission procedure — distinct from inward processing — does not permit processing operations. Applicable framework: Union Customs Code (Reg. EU 952/2013).