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The Simplified Network Application Process - Redesign (SNAP-R)

For the Submission of License Applications, Commodity Classification Requests, and AGR Notifications

"SNAP-R" PIN Request Package

SNAP-R was created to allow exporters to submit Export License applications, Reexport License applications, Agriculture Exception Notices, and Commodity Classification requests via the Internet. You must have a Company Identification Number (CIN) and Personal Identification Number (PIN) to access SNAP-R. The procedures and requirements for obtaining and using a PIN are as set forth below.

You may obtain a PIN by submitting to the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) an “Electronic Submission Letter” (provided below in the links entitled "Company Certification Letter" and "Third Party Certification Letter") on your company letterhead, with a corporate officer’s signature. Each individual who will be submitting requests must sign the PIN Holder’s Certification section on the Electronic Submission Letter in order to have a PIN issued. Additionally, if the corporate officer, who signs the company certification, wants to receive a PIN, he/she must also sign the PIN holder certification portion of the letter. “Copy and paste" the text of the certification letter onto your company letterhead and print or "Copy and paste" the text of the certification letter onto a blank document and print on your company letterhead. Fill in the blanks (e.g., applicant company name): include the PIN holder information and all required signatures. Submit the letter to BIS via fax, courier or postal service (information at the bottom of this page).

Each applicant company granted authorization to use SNAP-R will be assigned a Company Identification Number (CIN), also known as an Applicant ID number (CIN). BIS will communicate the CIN and PINs to authorized user(s) by telephone. An Applicant Company shall reveal the assigned CIN only to the PIN holders, their supervisors, employees, or agents of the applicant company that have a commercial justification for knowing the company identification number.

Note:  There is a two-week processing/receipt time for CIN/PINs.  Most requests are completed within 10 business days.  Those requests requiring more time will be handled as quickly as possible.  It is important to note that the PIN number will only be provided directly to the applicant by phone.

PIN holders shall not:

1. Disclose the PIN to anyone except BIS (including supervisors or coworkers);
2. Record the PIN either in writing or electronically;
3. Authorize another person to use such PIN (including supervisors or coworkers);
4. Use the PIN following termination of his/her authorization for PIN use by the Bureau of Industry and Security or by the applicant company.

To prevent misuse of the PIN:

1. The company and the PIN holder must report the loss, theft, or compromise of a PIN immediately by calling the SNAP-R help desk at (202) 482-2227. You must also confirm the report in writing within two business days; and
2. You must immediately notify BIS whenever a PIN holder leaves employment with your company or otherwise ceases to be authorized by your company to submit applications via the Internet on its behalf.

Internet Submissions

The Internet submission shall constitute an export control document. Such submissions shall provide the same information as a written submission. Support documentation required by Part 748 of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), including brochures and specifications, can be attached directly to the Work Item in SNAP-R (PDF format required).

You will receive an Application Control Number (ACN) electronically. You must use this control number on all specifications and brochures submitted to BIS in paper form to support the request.

Maintenance of Records

You should maintain a log, either manually or electronically, specifying the date and time of each Internet submission, the ECCNs of the items or the description of the items on each Internet submission, and the name of the employee or agent making the submission. This log must not be altered. Written corrections must be made in a manner that does not erase or otherwise obscure original entries. If the log is maintained electronically, corrections may only be made as notations.

Changes of Address and Staff

You should promptly notify BIS of any change in your company name or street address if your company re-locates to a different city and/or state as your original registered address with BIS. Either of these changes require a new CIN assignment and resubmission of the certification letter. If your company needs to add individuals as PIN holders, then your company must advise BIS by submitting another certification letter with the new individuals’ names and signatures (the PIN holders and corporate officer’s). Reference your current Applicant ID number (CIN) when contacting BIS for changes in address and staff. The new certification letter should be submitted to BIS via fax, courier, or postal service (information at the bottom of this page).

Applicant Companies should make periodic reviews of their PIN holders to ensure that only individuals whose current responsibilities make it necessary and appropriate that they act for the Applicant Company in this capacity to hold PINs.

Third Party Electronic Submissions

BIS permits third parties to submit license applications and classification requests on behalf of exporters and reexporters via SNAP-R. In order for third parties to be authorized to submit electronic requests to SNAP-R for the company they represent, they must submit a Third Party Certification Letter (provided below in the link entitled "Third Party Certification Letter"). "Copy and paste" the text of the certification letter onto your company letterhead and print or "Copy and paste" the text of the certification letter onto a blank document and print on your company letterhead. Fill in the blanks (e.g., Applicant Company), include the PIN holder information and required signatures. Submit the letter to BIS via fax, courier, or postal service as directed at the bottom of this page.

Questions about CINs and PINs

If you have questions about applying for a CIN and PIN you may contact BIS/Export Administration/Export Mgt and Compliance Division at (202) 482-2148 or the BIS SNAP-R help desk at (202) 482-2227 or by email at SNAPR@bis.doc.gov.  Our BIS/Export Administration/Western Regional Office can also be reached at (949) 660-0144 for assistance.

Company PIN Certification Letter

See Company Certification letter for SNAP-R electronic submissions. "Copy and paste" the text of the certification letter onto your company letterhead and print or "Copy and paste" the text of the certification letter onto a blank document and print on your company letterhead. Then fill in the blanks (i.e. Applicant Company, etc.), include the pin holder information, required signatures and submit as directed at the bottom of this page. When completing the company information, the company street address is required. A post office box number will not be accepted as a valid company address.

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