Belgium is introducing mandatory e-invoicing from 2026 – is your company ready?
Starting January 1, 2026, all companies subject to VAT in Belgium are required to exchange structured electronic invoices via the Peppol network. Paper or PDF invoices are no longer permitted. Companies failing to make the requisite technical preparations run the risk of committing compliance violations and incurring high fines.
Introduction
Organizations using Peppol for the first time may encounter considerable challenges. However, a suitable service provider can guide you through this change, take over many tasks, and even help you claim the implementation costs against tax.
Retarus ensures compliance, security and calculability in accounting. We help our e-invoicing customers eliminate an avoidable risk with substantial financial implications.
Time remaining until introduction of the regulation
Context
As part of its national digital strategy and in preparation for the EU’s “VAT in the Digital Age” (ViDA) initiative, Belgium is introducing mandatory B2B e-invoicing nationwide.
The system is based on the Peppol standard (BIS 3.0) and the EN 16931 format, with which structured, machine-readable invoices can be exchanged directly between companies via interoperable networks.
Timeline
Who is impacted?
Scope of application:
Exceptions:
Impact on companies
- ERP, accounting, and invoicing systems need to be adapted
- Organizations are obliged to have the technical capability to send and receive invoices via Peppol
- Rounding is only permitted on the totals for each VAT rate
Fines for non-compliance
€1500
First infringement
€3000
Second infringement
€5000
Third infringement
The e-invoicing obligation for B2B has been applicable with immediate effect and without a grace period since January 1, 2026.
Why companies need to act now
Preparation
Experience has shown that the necessary technical and organizational measures take around six months to implement – in other words, time is running out fast!
Peppol serves as the basis
In Belgium, Peppol will also form the basis for the e-reporting system planned from 2028 – timely compliance eases the transition.
PDF no longer permitted
Simple PDF invoices – without structured, machine-readable data – are no longer accepted in Belgium as of 2026.
Access Point
To access the Peppol network, companies need a Peppol Access Point such as the one Retarus is officially certified to operate.
Automation
E-invoicing enables companies to benefit from automated processes, lower error rates and greater transparency.
How we support you
Seamless integration
We seamlessly integrate Belgian e-invoicing (and much more) directly into your local ERP and accounting systems.
Last minute service
If things need to move forward particularly quickly, we can fast-track your project on request. Please feel free to ask us about the additional costs this may entail.
Clear guidance
Regulations and requirements are often difficult to understand. We provide you with clear instructions on how to introduce Peppol and practical information to streamline implementation.
Workflows
We optimize your processing of documents by harmonizing and automating your invoice and document workflows for EDI, PDF, platforms, CTCs and networks.
Experts
Our experienced specialists have many years of expertise in EDI and e-invoicing, including the associated EU project management.
Premium Support
We provide you with highly competent support around the clock (24/7), with SLAs to guarantee implementation times.
Full compliance
Our Global E-Invoicing service is fully compliant with Belgian tax law and EU standards.
Future-proof solution
Retarus Global E-Invoicing is already compatible with the forthcoming EU ViDA (VAT in the Digital Age) requirements.
Find out how the Retarus solution meets your e-invoicing requirements in Belgium
Download our exclusive infographic to find out how Retarus implements its secure, legally compliant invoicing processes for customers in Belgium.
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Prepare your company for mandatory Belgian e-invoicing now
Electronic invoicing has become mandatory for all companies operating in Belgium from 2026. This is due to be followed by real-time e-reporting in 2028. Retarus covers all requirements with a legally compliant, future-proof, efficient solution. Convert these regulatory obligations into your competitive advantage.
Contact us now