Introduction
For International businesses processing the personal data of EU citizens, the landscape has shifted dramatically. A key element of this shift is the obligation under Article 27 of the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to appoint an EU GDPR article 27 Representative if the company lacks a legal entity within the EU. This article sheds light on this obligation and underscores the fines for noncompliance while highlighting the solutions offered by Formiti’s EU Representative Service.
The Obligation Under Article 27
Article 27 of the EU GDPR stipulates that non-EU entities processing the data of EU residents must appoint a representative within the EU. This rule applies squarely to UK companies post-Brexit. The appointed representative acts as a local contact for data subjects and supervisory authorities within the EU, thereby ensuring that the company remains within the purview of EU regulations.
The role of the EU representative involves facilitating communication between the data subjects, the supervisory authorities, and the company. They also hold a copy of the company’s Record of Processing Activities (RoPA), making it available to authorities upon request.
The Perils of Noncompliance
The penalties for failing to comply with the EU GDPR Article 27 can be severe. Under the GDPR, fines can reach up to €20 million or 4% of the company’s total worldwide annual turnover of the preceding financial year, whichever is higher. These fines are not mere threats but a reality that companies have faced since the GDPR came into force.
Formiti’s EU Representative Service: Your Compliance Partner
In this complex regulatory environment, Formiti’s EU Representative Service emerges as a beacon of compliance and assurance. Our service is meticulously designed to fulfil the requirements of Article 27, ensuring that your business remains on the right side of the law.
Our team of experts acts as your EU article 27 representative, seamlessly managing the necessary communication and documentation. We provide a point of contact in the EU for data subjects and regulatory bodies, handle inquiries, and ensure that your RoPA is up-to-date and accessible.
Why Choose Formiti?
- Expertise and Experience: Our team brings extensive knowledge of the GDPR and relevant EU data protection laws. This expertise is crucial in navigating the nuances of compliance post-Brexit.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Hiring an in-house specialist for GDPR compliance can be prohibitively expensive. Formiti offers a cost-effective alternative, providing expert services without the need for a full-time employee.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your company is in compliance with EU regulations provides invaluable peace of mind. With Formiti, you can focus on your core business activities, leaving the complexities of data protection to us.
- Global Reach with Local Insight: We understand the global scope of data protection and offer services tailored to your specific needs, ensuring compliance both in the UK and across the EU.
In conclusion,
The post-Brexit era presents unique challenges for UK companies processing the personal data of EU citizens. The appointment of an EU GDPR Representative is not just a regulatory requirement but a crucial step in safeguarding your business against potentially crippling fines. Formiti’s EU Representative Service offers a robust solution, ensuring that your business navigates these choppy waters with confidence and compliance. For more information, visit our EU article 27 Representative Service page and take a decisive step towards comprehensive data protection compliance.