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QualificationIntermediate10 min read

Applying for Prequalification

How to apply for prequalification and simplify eligibility evidence for every tender.

Steps Overview

  1. 1

    Check Prerequisites

    Check whether your company meets the basic prerequisites for prequalification.

  2. 2

    Select PQ Body

    Choose the appropriate prequalification body – PQ-VOB for construction or AVPQ/ULV for services.

  3. 3

    Compile Documents

    Compile all required documents: trade register, revenue statements, references, insurance.

  4. 4

    Submit Application

    Submit the application to the chosen PQ body and pay the annual fee.

  5. 5

    Receive and Use PQ Number

    After successful review, you receive your PQ number to include in every bid.

Applying for Prequalification

Prequalification (PQ) is a central register where companies can pre-verify their eligibility for public contracts. Instead of submitting the same documents for every tender, you register once and reference your PQ number.

What Is Prequalification?

A standardized pre-assessment of eligibility. Companies are reviewed by a recognized body and receive a PQ number. The contracting authority can then check your credentials online.

Types of Prequalification

  • PQ-VOB: For construction – costs approx. 500-800 EUR/year
  • AVPQ/ULV: For supplies and services – costs vary

Required Documents

Trade register extract, business registration, three years of revenue statements, references, clearance certificates (tax office, trade association, health insurance), liability insurance, and declarations on exclusion grounds.

Benefits

  1. Time savings – no repeated document compilation
  2. Professional impression – signals reliability
  3. Legal certainty – reduced exclusion risk
  4. Currency reminders – PQ body alerts on expiring documents

Annual Maintenance

Update documents annually, add new references regularly, pay the annual fee on time, and report significant changes (e.g., management changes).

Prequalification pays off for any company regularly participating in public tenders.

Related Guides

Qualification

Proving Eligibility Criteria

Qualification

Eligibility Check Checklist

Procurement Process

Finding Your First Tender

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