Union handling fee for online shopping outside the EU

How the Union Handling Fee affects online orders

From 1 November 2026, a Union Handling Fee (UHF) applies to each item in an online purchase that arrives in Ireland from outside the EU.

How much is the Union Handling Fee?

The Union Handling Fee is €2 per item. It applies to all goods in an online order, regardless of the order’s total value.

Is the Union Handling Fee the same as the EU customs charge?

No, the Union Handling Fee is different. It is applied on top of the EU customs charge of €3 per unique item that was introduced on 1 July 2026.

Why has the Union Handling Fee been introduced?

With the rise in online shopping, the European Union has introduced the handling fee to cover the increased costs of processing goods that arrive in the EU from non-EU countries.

Does the Union Handling Fee apply to gifts?

The Union Handling Fee applies only to items that EU consumers buy from non-EU businesses. It does not apply to gifts you might receive from a friend or family member who lives outside the EU.

Who must pay the fee?

The UHF is aimed at non-EU sellers (including online platforms and marketplaces) that deliver to customers in the EU. Although the Union Handling Fee is not designed to be a direct charge to consumers, an online seller may pass on the fee. It may do this: At checkout On delivery

How does the fee apply?

From 1 November 2026, packages coming from outside the European Union face both a Union Handling Fee and an EU customs charge. The UHF and the customs charge are applied differently.

How do you know if the fee is included when you pay for the order?

Some retailers will collect the Union Handling Fee along with the customs charge when you place your order. If the fee and the customs charge appear during checkout, you should be told that the total price paid at checkout is the final amount due.

If you cannot see if the Union Handling Fee has been applied along with the customs charge, check the seller’s terms and conditions and delivery information carefully before you pay for your order.

Can you get a refund of the Union Handling Fee if you want to return an item you have bought online?

The Union Handling Fee is not refundable, even if you are returning an item that is faulty. When buying from outside the EU, always read the seller’s returns policy carefully before placing an order.

Where can you find out more information?

You can get further information about the Union Handling Fee on Revenue.ie