(a) Automation criteria. To be eligible for RLF, a licensed customs broker or importer of record must be:

(1) Operational on the ABI (see 19 CFR part 143, subpart A);

(2) Operational on the EIP prior to applying for RLF; and

(3) Operational on the ACH (or any other CBP-approved method of electronic payment), for purposes of directing the electronic payment of duties, taxes and fees (see 19 CFR 24.25), 30 days before transmitting a RLF entry.

(b) Broker must have national permit. To be eligible for RLF, a licensed customs broker must hold a valid national permit (see 19 CFR 111.19(f)).

(c) Continuous bond. A RLF entry must be secured with a continuous bond.