REACH registration step by step
The process your Only Representative runs.
Your REACH Only Representative for non-EU substance manufacturers
Since the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December 2020, UK companies are established outside the EU. For EU REACH they are treated like any other non-EU manufacturer.
EU REACH registrations must be held by an entity established in the EU. Registrations previously held by UK manufacturers, importers or UK-based Only Representatives no longer count for the EU market; they had to be transferred to an EU-established registrant. UK companies supplying the EU today rely either on their EU importers registering or on an EU-based Only Representative.
| EU REACH | UK REACH | |
|---|---|---|
| Market | EU Member States (and EEA), plus Northern Ireland | Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales) |
| Agency | ECHA | Health and Safety Executive (HSE) |
| Registrant | EU-established manufacturer, importer or Only Representative | GB-established manufacturer, importer or Only Representative |
A company selling into both markets needs to meet both regimes; one registration does not cover the other.
Not if it is held by a UK entity. EU REACH registrations must be held by an entity established in the EU.
No. UK REACH covers Great Britain. Sales to the EU need an EU REACH registration by an EU-established registrant.
Under the Windsor Framework, EU REACH continues to apply in Northern Ireland.
The process your Only Representative runs.
Joining existing registrations.
What EU customers will ask for first.
Note: This guide provides general information about Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (REACH), not legal advice. Specific obligations depend on your substance, tonnage and supply chain. Last reviewed 30 September 2026.
Tell us your substance, tonnage band and where your company is established. Before you sign a mandate, we tell you what the next step is.