The digital ATA Carnet system is now live. The European Union, the United Kingdom, Norway, and Switzerland are the first 30 countries in the ATA Carnet chain to officially implement and issue eATA Carnets marking a major milestone in the digitalization of the ATA Carnet system.
The digital ATA Carnet system is now live. The European Union, the United Kingdom, Norway, and Switzerland are the first countries in the ATA Carnet chain to officially implement and issue eATA Carnets marking a major milestone in the digitalization of the ATA Carnet system.
Canadian ATA Carnets used for travel to the European Union, the United Kingdom, Norway and Switzerland will be impacted by this change.
We are currently in the Global Transition phase, which will run through 2026 and 2027. During the Global Transition Plan phase, digital and paper Carnets will both remain in use, as not all 81 member countries will be able to transition at the same time. The final phase, representing full digital implementation, is expected to begin in Q4 2027 or early 2028.
The European Union, the United Kingdom, Norway, and Switzerland will remain flexible with paper Carnets during the transition period to help ensure a smooth transition and avoid delays or issues at the border.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce as the National Guaranteeing and Issuing Association for ATA Carnets in Canada is working closely with ICC to provide clear guidance to holders in advance of these changes.
We encourage you to download the ATA Carnet app, available free on App Store and Google Play, and familiarize yourself with the instructional videos below.
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) first introduced the e-ATA concept in 2016. Developed alongside the World Customs Organization, this system was designed to streamline processes and boost efficiency. The result is a modern, digital ATA Carnet system equipped with tools that benefit businesses, customs authorities, and stakeholders globally. With the e-ATA Carnet, you can finally move away from paperwork and experience truly seamless trade.
We are currently in the Global Transition phase, which will run through 2026 and 2027. During the Global Transition Plan phase, digital and paper Carnets will both remain in use, as not all 81 member countries will be able to transition at the same time. The final phase, representing full digital implementation, is expected to begin in Q4 2027 or early 2028
Carnet holders continue to order Carnets through their National Issuing system just like they do today. This part of the process remains the same.
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The Carnet holders download the Carnet into the smartphone wallet using the ATA Carnet app. If necessary, they can easily share it with their representatives. For security purposes, the Carnet is fully encrypted and is never transmitted over a network in an unencrypted format.
At border crossings, the holder or representative simply unlocks their wallet and presents a QR code linked to a specific Carnet and transaction. These QR codes replace the old paper counterfoils and vouchers.
The customs officer scans the ATA Carnet QR code or enters the Carnet ID and transaction code, views the detailed information and confirms transactions.
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Every transaction is recorded digitally, with an immediate confirmation sent straight to the holder or representative’s smartphone.
Customs authorities can identify potential claims and eliminate unnecessary ones through virtual voucher reconciliation, ensuring efficient management in collaboration with the National Guaranteeing Associations (NGAs).
