What are the VAT invoice requirements in the EU?

Last updated: 2026-08-02·Verified: 2026-08-02

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📋 Direct Answer

EU VAT invoices must include: (1) Seller and buyer VAT numbers, (2) Invoice date and unique sequential number, (3) Description of goods/services, (4) Quantity and unit price, (5) VAT rate and amount, (6) Total amount, (7) Currency, (8) 'Reverse charge' notation if applicable. E-invoicing is becoming mandatory in several EU countries (Italy already mandatory, France from 2026, Germany planned).

2
Requirements
N/A
Est. Total Cost
Immediate
Timeline

Item by Item

RequiredRequired Invoice Elements
N/AImmediate
  1. 1Include all 8 required elements on every invoice
  2. 2Use correct VAT rates for each product
  3. 3Keep invoices for at least 10 years
If applicableE-Invoicing Requirements
VariesPhased
  1. 1Italy: mandatory since 2019
  2. 2France: mandatory from 2026
  3. 3Germany: planned but not yet mandatory
  4. 4Check requirements per country

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Sources

  • EU VAT Directive Invoice Requirements
  • Country-specific e-invoicing mandates

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Consult a professional for your specific situation.