Free circulation of goods between the EU and Turkey explained

ATR certificate

An ATR certificate is a customs document used in trade between the European Union and Turkey. It confirms that goods are in free circulation within either territory and therefore qualify for the tariff treatment established under the EU–Turkey Customs Union.

Goods are considered to be in free circulation once they have either been produced within the EU or Turkey, or imported and released for free circulation after all applicable duties and taxes have been paid.

Unlike some other trade documents, an ATR certificate does not prove the origin of goods. Instead, it confirms their customs status within the customs union.

The role of the ATR certificate in EU–Turkey trade

The EU–Turkey Customs Union allows many industrial goods to move between the two territories with reduced or zero customs duties. The ATR certificate supports this system by confirming that the goods have already entered free circulation in the exporting territory.

Because the certificate relates to free circulation rather than origin, goods that were originally imported from a third country may still qualify for preferential tariff treatment, provided they have been properly cleared through customs beforehand.

When is an ATR certificate required​?

An ATR certificate is used when goods are exported between the European Union and Turkey under the customs union agreement. During import procedures, customs authorities use the document to verify that the goods qualify for the tariff treatment provided by the customs union.

Without a valid ATR certificate, shipments may be treated as standard imports and regular customs duties may apply.

Hands of businessman brown suit are signing contract agreement. Contract agreement policy concept.

Navigating ATR documentation for EU–Turkey shipments

Correct customs documentation is essential when trading between the EU and Turkey. Missing or incorrectly issued ATR certificates can result in delays, additional customs checks, or unexpected duties.

Understanding how ATR certificates should be issued and used helps ensure that shipments move through customs procedures smoothly. If you have questions about ATR documentation or need assistance with customs procedures related to trade with Turkey, our team is available to assist.

Get in touch

Other knowledge

EUR.1 certificate

Authorized Economic Operator (AEO)

T1 transit declarations

Binding Tariff Information (BTI)

Fiscal representation

Scroll to Top