If you currently hold an EASA Part-66 Aircraft Maintenance Licence (AML) issued by one EASA member state—such as the Netherlands via KIWA/ILT—and wish to transfer it to another, you must follow a structured process. This may be necessary due to changes in employment, training alignment, regulatory convenience, or relocation.

Although the process is officially supported within EASA's regulatory framework, success depends on careful documentation, valid reasoning, and full compliance with administrative requirements.

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Understanding licence portability in the EASA framework

Under EASA Regulation (EU) No. 1321/2014, all AMLs issued by EASA member states are mutually recognised. However, while mutual recognition allows you to exercise privileges in other EASA countries, each licence must be managed by a single competent authority.

This authority is responsible for renewals, amendments, oversight of experience records, and handling of disciplinary matters.

If you wish to transfer your AML from one authority to another, this must be done through an administrative licence transfer, not simply by applying anew. This ensures a proper regulatory chain of custody and preserves your compliance history.

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Reasons you might need to transfer your licence

While mutual recognition allows you to work in other countries, transferring the licence itself is sometimes preferable—or required—for operational or administrative reasons. These may include:

• Employment relocation – your maintenance work is now conducted under the oversight of a different authority
• On-the-job training (OJT) alignment – your employer holds a one-time or continuing OJT approval that is recognised only by the receiving authority
• Type training or basic training coordination –you are enrolled with a Part-147organisation that is linked to a particular NAA
•  Employer regulatory policy – many organisations prefer AMLs to be managed by the same authority under which they hold Part-145, CAMO, or ATO approvals
• Residency or convenience – you reside in or frequently travel to the new country, making liaison with your current NAA impractical

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Each of these reasons may be valid—but must be clearly documented.

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Step-by-step guide to transferring your Part-66 licence

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Check your licence status and eligibility

Before initiating the transfer:

• Ensure that your AML is currently valid
•  Confirm that all continuation or refresher training is up to date
• Ensure that there are no ongoing investigations or enforcement issues pending with your current authority

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If your AML is expired, under investigation, or suspended, the new authority is unlikely to process your application.

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Contact the receiving competent authority

Reach out to the aviation authority to which you wish to transfer. Each NAA has its own administrative procedure, although most follow a common structure (usually involving Form 19 or an equivalent).

Request the following from the new authority:

• Transfer application form
• Guidance notes or checklist of required documents
• Fee structure and acceptable payment methods

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You will likely be asked to provide:

• A completed and signed application
• Proof of identity (e.g., passport or national ID card)
• Justification for transfer
• Employer confirmation, if applicable
• Payment of the application fee

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Prepare a solid justification for the EASA transfer

Authorities are not obliged to accept transfer applications without sufficient cause. A strong, well-documented rationale increases your chances of success. Acceptable justifications include:

• You are relocating for a job – provide an employment contract or offer letter
• Your employer’s OJT programme is only recognised by the receiving authority – submit a formal explanation from your quality or training department
• You are enrolled in training linked to the new authority – include confirmation of enrolment with a Part-147 or type training provider
• Your employer mandates licence alignment with their own approvals – a letter from your accountable manager or compliance officer will help
• You have permanent residence in the new country – a tenancy agreement or residence permit may be required
• Avoid vague statements such as “I prefer this authority” or “it’s more convenient,” unless supported by logistical or compliance arguments.

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Challenges you may face, and how to mitigate them

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• Even if the application appears straightforward, various issues can cause delays or outright rejection. Be aware of the following:
• Incomplete documentation – missing logbooks, expired training, or unsigned forms will stall the process
• Unclear justification – authorities are reluctant to approve transfers seen as arbitrary or lacking operational necessity
• Ongoing investigations or enforcement action – any pending issues must be fully resolved before a transfer can take place
• In-progress training – if you're midway through OJT or type training under one authority, a transfer can complicate validation
• Residency rules – some NAAs require proof that you are based within their jurisdiction, particularly post-Brexit
• Language requirements – certain authorities may require communications or documents in their national language
• Some authorities won’t accept a transfer if a suspicious amount of module exams were sat at the same time (4 exams in any 2 day period as an example)

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To avoid these pitfalls, proactively communicate with both your current and receiving authorities. Double-check all submission requirements and be transparent in your reasoning.

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Submit your application package

Once your documentation is complete:

• Submit it to the receiving competent authority
• Include a detailed explanation of your transfer rationale
• Attach any supporting letters or evidence from your employer or training provider
• Pay the required administrative fee

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Processing times vary by authority but typically range from two to six months.

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Licence file transfer between EASA authorities

Once your application is accepted, the receiving authority will formally request your file from your current licensing authority. Your existing NAA (e.g., KIWA/ILT) will then:

• Verify your AML status and eligibility for transfer
• Compile your full licence file, including exam results, experience log summaries, OJT documentation, and compliance history
• Transmit the file directly to the receiving authority

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This stage is critical and can be delayed by incomplete records or slow internal processes. You may wish to follow up with your current NAA to ensure that the transfer request is being handled promptly.

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Issuance of new Part-66 EASA AML

Once the receiving authority has reviewed and accepted the transferred file:

• A new AML will be issued under their jurisdiction
• Your previous licence will be invalidated and may need to be returned
• The scope of your categories, limitations, and endorsements will remain unchanged—unless you requested a revision or extension

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You may receive a physical licence card, a digital licence, or both, depending on the authority’s procedures.

Final thoughts

Transferring your EASA Part-66 AML between authorities is entirely feasible, but it requires proactive planning, administrative diligence, and a valid operational or regulatory reason. Whether prompted by relocation, employer requirements, or training needs, the key to success is thorough preparation and transparent communication with both authorities.

Unlike a licence reissue or renewal, a transfer involves a handover of regulatory oversight—and as such, both authorities must collaborate. If done correctly, the result is seamless continuity of your certification and professional standing within the EASA system.