Navigating the world of EU funding is incredibly rewarding, but the initial setup can feel like decoding a brand-new language. If you are preparing your first grant application, you have likely run into two common acronyms: PIC and OID.
Think of these as your organisation’s digital passport. Without them, you cannot apply for funding, join a project consortium, or sign a grant agreement.
Fortunately, getting your EU project ID is a straightforward process. This guide breaks down exactly what these IDs are, which one you need, and how to get yours without the headache.
PIC vs. OID: Which ID Do You Actually Need?
The European Commission uses two different registration systems depending on the specific funding programme you are targeting.
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- PIC (Participant Identification Code): This is a 9-digit number used for most centralised EU programmes. If you are applying for Horizon Europe, LIFE, Creative Europe, or Digital Europe, you need a PIC.
- OID (Organisation ID): This is an 8-character code starting with the letter “E” (e.g., E12345678). It is used specifically for decentralised projects managed by National Agencies, primarily Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps (ESC).
Good to know: If you plan to apply for both types of programmes, you will need to complete both registrations.
Step 1: Create Your Personal EU Login
Before you can register an organisation, you need a personal user account with the European Commission. This account acts as your master key for all EU portals.
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- Go to the official EU Login page.
- Click Create an account.
- Fill in your name, email address, and preferred language.
- Confirm your email via the activation link sent to your inbox and set a secure password.
Tip: Always use your professional work email rather than a personal one, as this account will be tied to your organisation’s official profile.
Step 2: Check for Existing Registrations
Duplicate registrations cause massive administrative delays down the road. Before creating a new profile, check if someone else in your organisation has already registered.
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- For a PIC: Go to the Funding & Tenders Portal, click on “How to Participate,” select “Participant Register,” and use the “Search a PIC” function.
- For a OID: Go to the Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps platform, navigate to the organisation search bar, and search by your legal name or tax number.
If your organisation appears, contact the listed primary user to get added as an authorised representative. If nothing comes up, you are ready to register.
Step 3: Register Your Organisation
Gather your official company documents before starting. You will need your legal name, business registration number, VAT number (if applicable), and official address.
To get a PIC (Funding & Tenders Portal):
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- Log in to the portal using your EU Login.
- Click on Register your organisation.
- Follow the wizard to enter your organisation’s legal status (e.g., NGO, SME, public body).
- Submit the form. The system will generate your 9-digit PIC instantly.
To get an OID (Erasmus+ Platform):
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- Log in to the Erasmus+ and ESC platform.
- Select Register my organisation.
- Complete the required fields regarding your legal entity type, address, and legal representatives.
- Submit the data to receive your OID immediately.
Step 4: The Validation Process (Don’t Skip This!)
Receiving your PIC or OID means you can now be added to project proposals. However, your ID will remain in a “Declared” or “Pending” status until it is formally validated.
When your project proposal is selected for funding, the EU Central Validation Service (for PIC) or your National Agency (for OID) will contact you to verify your identity. You will be asked to upload official supporting documents, which typically include:
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- A recent legal entity form.
- An official bank identification form.
- Extracts from your national official gazette or trade register.
- VAT registration proof.
Keep scanned, high-quality copies of these documents handy so you can upload them quickly when requested.
Preparing Your Proposal? Consulta Europa Is Here to Help
Securing your PIC or OID is just the first administrative milestone on a long and rewarding journey in international cooperation. While getting your initial code takes only a few minutes, drafting a competitive proposal and managing the project effectively requires expertise, time, and a solid strategy.
At Consulta Europa, we specialise in EU project management and design high-impact proposals for funding programmes like Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, and LIFE. If you want to maximise your chances of success and bypass the bureaucratic headache, our team of experts is ready to support you at every stage of the process.
Let’s talk! Get in touch with us today via our contact form or drop us an email to share your project idea. Let’s bring your European vision to life!