What does the EU VAT Directive 2006/112/EC require for invoices?
Effective: 2007-01-01 · Authority: European Council
EU VAT Directive 2006/112/EC establishes the common VAT system across member states and defines mandatory invoice content including supplier and buyer VAT numbers, taxable amount, applicable VAT rate, and VAT amount. Articles 217-240 govern electronic invoicing, requiring authenticity of origin, integrity of content, and legibility.
What invoice fields does the VAT Directive mandate?
Articles 226-230 of the VAT Directive specify mandatory invoice content. Key required fields include: sequential invoice number, date of issue, VAT identification numbers of supplier and customer, full name and address of both parties, description of goods or services, quantity, unit price exclusive of VAT, VAT rate, VAT amount, and total amount payable.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the VAT Directive require e-invoices specifically?
- The VAT Directive permits both paper and electronic invoices, subject to buyer consent for electronic format. Electronic invoices must ensure authenticity of origin, integrity of content, and legibility throughout the retention period. These requirements can be met by advanced electronic signatures, EDI, or internal controls.
- How long must VAT invoices be retained under EU rules?
- The VAT Directive sets a minimum retention period but defers to national law. Most member states require 7-10 years. France requires 10 years. Businesses must retain invoices in a format that guarantees their authenticity and legibility throughout the period.
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