Guide to Obtaining an English Export Declaration Certificate: Online via UNI-PASS vs. Customs Office Application Released

The English Export Declaration Certificate is an essential document for various international trade activities, including providing proof of transaction to overseas buyers, settling export payments with banks, managing foreign exchange, and verifying export performance. There are two primary methods to obtain this certificate, and the following details the specific procedures and requirements for each.

1. Official Application through Customs (In-person or via Electronic Document)

This method involves the export declarant or the exporter formally applying for an English Certificate of Export Clearance based on Article 22, Paragraph 6 of the 「Notice on Export Clearance Procedures」. This is typically used when a specific certificate format is required or when official customs verification is necessary.

• Eligibility and Authority: The application can be submitted to the head of the customs office where the goods were cleared or the office having jurisdiction over the exporter's business location.
• Required Documents: Applicants must accurately complete and submit Annex Form No. 1 (English Certificate of Export Clearance). Information from the original Korean declaration that can be anglicized—such as product descriptions, specifications, and company names—must be translated and recorded in English.
• Application Method: While in-person visits to the customs house are possible, it is more efficient to apply via the electronic document system, which removes time and location constraints.
• Fees: Pursuant to Article 322, Paragraph 6 of the Customs Act, a fee of 400 KRW per case is charged for this administrative service.

2. Online Issuance via UNI-PASS (The Most Convenient Method)

Most exporters prefer to issue the certificate directly through UNI-PASS (unipass.customs.go.kr), the National Customs Total Information Service. This method is the fastest and most convenient, allowing for immediate issuance at any time without a physical visit to the customs office.

• Eligibility: The export declarant or the exporter of the goods can issue the certificate after verifying their identity using a digital certificate on the UNI-PASS system.
• Issuance Procedure:
  1. Access the UNI-PASS website and log in with a digital certificate.
  2. Click on the 'Electronic Declaration' (전자신고) menu at the top.
  3. Navigate to the 'Print Clearance Forms' (통관서식출력) sub-menu.
  4. Select 'Export Declaration Certificate' (수출신고필증), search for the relevant declaration number, and choose the English print option. The system automatically translates the data into English.
• Required Documents: No separate application documents are required for online issuance, as the system generates the English certificate based on the pre-existing export declaration data stored in the database. However, a digital certificate for authentication is mandatory.
• Fees: Direct issuance via UNI-PASS is free of charge. This is provided as a public service by the Korea Customs Service to support export activities.

3. Additional Insights and Precautions

• Terminology: While often referred to collectively as an 'English Export Certificate,' the formal customs application produces an 'English Certificate of Export Clearance,' while the UNI-PASS version is an 'English Export Declaration Certificate.' Both serve the same function of proving export facts in English.
• Data Accuracy: Since the certificate is based on the original filing, it is crucial that the initial export declaration was filled out accurately. Any typos in English company names or product specifications may cause issues during overseas customs clearance or payment settlements.
• Purpose of Use: This document is utilized for duty drawbacks, L/C negotiations, buyer requirements, and foreign exchange evidence. Depending on the purpose, the receiving party might require a specific format, so it is advisable to check their requirements beforehand.

In conclusion, while you can apply formally at a customs office for a fee of 400 KRW, issuance via UNI-PASS is highly recommended for most cases due to its efficiency and the absence of fees. Choose the method that best suits your current business needs.