EU representatives – your FAQ’s answered

Here at GDPRlocal, we get lots of questions about what exactly an EU  Representative is, what they do and whether your business actually needs one. We’ve produced a list of our most frequently asked questions to help you better understand this little-known piece of the GDPR.

• What is an EU  Representative?

An EU  Representative is individual, a company or an organisation established in the EEA that represents you in your obligations to the GDPR. This means that there is a representative of your company in, or close to the home states of data subjects.

• What is the role of an EU  Representative?

For UK businesses, an EU  Representative will serve as the point of contact between the business, the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office) and data subjects. They will also respond to any queries the ICO or data subjects have, make records available to the ICO and maintain records of your businesses data processing activities. EU  representatives represent non-EU  based organisations and fulfil the requirements of the GDPR.

• I have a DPO, do I need an EU  Representative?

Although the two roles sound similar, don’t get confused. If you trade in the EEA and the UK, you need an EU  Representative, even if you have a DPO. This is to ensure that EU  citizens have access to a representative of your business in their territory.

• Do I really need an EU  Representative

You only need an EU  representative if you monitor or provide goods or services to EU  residents. If you only trade in the UK, you do not need one. There are only a few exceptions, so it’s best to contact us if you trade in the EU  but don’t think that you require one.

We understand that many businesses were not aware that they would need an EU  Representative until recently and that this could be a stressful period for you. Not to worry- we’re here to help in all matters GDPR. Our new website, provides you with fast, secure and expert EU  Representation you can rely on.