For sellers entering Amazon's European marketplace, the Know Your Customer (KYC) verification process presents a crucial hurdle. Among the required documents, the unified business license application form—commonly referred to as the "one license, one code" document—has emerged as a particular point of confusion for many new merchants.
Understanding the Unified Business License Document
This document serves as an enhanced version of traditional company information records. Amazon requires it to comprehensively verify business credentials and ensure compliance with European marketplace regulations. While the requirement might appear daunting, obtaining this document follows straightforward procedures.
Two Primary Methods for Document Acquisition
Method 1: Online Self-Service Download (Shenzhen Example)
The digital approach offers convenience through these steps:
- Access the official website of the Shenzhen Market Supervision Administration (which also handles intellectual property matters)
- Locate and select the "Enterprise Registration Archives Query" portal
- Choose the "Online Self-Service Archive Query" option, complete facial recognition verification, and download the document
Note: This method requires pre-existing digital records of company information in the system. In cases where online access proves unavailable, alternative approaches exist.
Method 2: In-Person Retrieval at Business Archives Offices
For physical copies or when digital methods fail, sellers should prepare:
- Original and copied business licenses (copies requiring official company seals)
- Legal representative identification documents
- For proxy applications: additional documentation including agent identification and legal authorization letters
Local business archive offices may have varying requirements, making advance consultation advisable to streamline the process.
Alternative Solutions for Unavailable Documents
In jurisdictions where the unified form remains inaccessible, approved substitute documentation exists. Professional KYC verification services maintain templates that meet Amazon's compliance standards when official documents prove unobtainable.
Preventative Measures for New Market Entrants
Prospective sellers establishing new business entities should verify document availability during company registration. This foresight prevents future complications in marketplace onboarding processes.
Additional KYC Verification Considerations
Beyond the unified license document, sellers must ensure:
- Complete and accurate company registration details
- Consistency between legal representative information and business licenses
- Valid address verification through utility bills or financial statements
- Accessible contact information for Amazon correspondence
Proper preparation of these elements significantly enhances verification success rates for European marketplace access.