Dutch webshop with Belgian customers: do you have to use Peppol?
The Belgian obligation applies in principle to businesses established and VAT-registered in Belgium. A Dutch webshop without a Belgian establishment is usually not covered. Your Belgian customers will probably ask for it anyway.
When does it apply to you?
The obligation covers VAT-registered businesses that are established in Belgium or have a fixed establishment there. According to the Belgian FPS Finance, a foreign business that only has a VAT number in Belgium is not covered. If you do have a Belgian establishment, for example a warehouse or office you trade through, go through it with your accountant.
Why your Belgian customers ask for it anyway
- Belgian businesses must be able to receive e-invoices themselves, and their bookkeeping is set up for it.
- A PDF can mean extra manual work for them, and they are less and less used to it.
- A Peppol invoice lands directly in their accounting software, without retyping.
What to arrange on the invoice
If you sell goods as a Dutch business to a Belgian VAT-registered business, that is usually an intra-Community supply at 0% VAT. For that you need a valid VAT number from your customer (check it in VIES), proof of transport and an intra-Community supplies listing. The details are in reverse charge to Belgian businesses.
What can you do?
- Send a Peppol invoice. It is not mandatory, but it is the easiest for your customer. As a Dutch business you usually register under your KvK number (0106) or VAT number (9944), see how to find a Peppol ID.
- Send a PDF and ask whether your customer accepts it. You are not obliged to use Peppol.
- Ask what your customer wants. Some want Peppol, others are happy with a PDF.
And in the Netherlands itself?
The Netherlands plans a similar obligation for business invoices around 2030; the details are still to be decided. If you already work over Peppol, you will be prepared.
How PeppolKit helps
PeppolKit creates an invoice with the right VAT for every business order (including reverse charge after a VIES check) and sends it over Peppol to your Belgian customer when they can be reached. Otherwise a PDF goes by email. It works for Shopify, WooCommerce, PrestaShop and bol.com. See the pricing: the free plan covers 10 invoices a month. Or read about e-invoicing in Belgium.
Frequently asked questions
Does my Dutch webshop have to send e-invoices to Belgian businesses?
In principle not, as long as you are not established in Belgium. The Belgian obligation covers VAT-registered businesses established in Belgium. Your Belgian customer may still ask for it.
Does my Belgian customer have to be able to receive my invoice over Peppol?
Belgian VAT-registered businesses must be able to receive e-invoices. Whether you have to send them depends on where you are established.
Which Peppol ID does my Dutch business have?
Usually 0106 with your KvK number or 9944 with your VAT number, depending on how you register.
Is there a Dutch obligation?
It is planned for around 2030; the details are still to be decided. Check the current state with the Dutch tax authority or your accountant.
PeppolKit by platform: Shopify, WooCommerce, PrestaShop, bol.com and Lightspeed (waitlist). See how it works for your webshop.
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Choose your platform Start free with 10 invoices a month.An explanation for orientation, not tax advice.