What is a European Payment Order?

Dutch term: Europees betalingsbevel | Legal basis: Regulation (EC) 1896/2006

The European Payment Order (EPO) under Regulation (EC) 1896/2006 is a simplified cross-border debt collection procedure available for uncontested pecuniary claims between parties in different EU member states. The creditor files a standard form application with the court, and if the requirements are met, the court issues the order without a hearing.

The debtor has 30 days to file a statement of opposition. If no opposition is filed, the EPO becomes enforceable and can be enforced in any EU member state without exequatur. If the debtor opposes, the case continues as ordinary civil proceedings under the law of the member state where the court is located.

Why it matters for international businesses

For cross-border B2B debt collection within the EU, the EPO is a cost-effective alternative to regular proceedings for clearly owed amounts. However, for claims where the debtor is likely to oppose, Dutch summary proceedings (kort geding) combined with pre-judgment attachment are usually more effective.