Your Questions Answered: Belgium's E-Invoicing Mandate FAQ

Apr 16, 2025 10:14 AM

As the January 1, 2026 deadline for Belgium's e-invoicing mandate approaches, many businesses are asking the same question: How can we ensure compliance? To help you prepare, we've compiled a comprehensive FAQ document that answers the most common and pressing concerns from your peers.

Understanding the mandate

Starting January 1, 2026, all domestic invoices in Belgium must (with some exceptions) be sent and received as e-invoices via the Peppol network using the Peppol BIS format. This move is designed to combat VAT fraud and reduce Belgium’s VAT gap by standardizing the digitizing the invoicing process.

Compliance details

The mandate requires invoices to be transmitted using the Peppol BIS format. However, alternate formats are allowed if both parties agree and the format complies with EN16931standards—ensuring the invoice can be automatically processed.

Who is affected?

The mandate applies to Belgian-established and VAT-registered suppliers, including foreign entities with a Belgian fixed establishment for VAT purposes. Buyers—both established and non-established VAT-registered taxpayers —may also be required to receive structured e-invoices.

Technical requirements

Invoices must be sent using the Peppol network, which ensures security, standardization, and broad reach across suppliers and buyers.

Future developments

Looking ahead, Belgium plans to implement real-time invoice reporting by 2028 through a government portal likely integrated with Peppol. Staying informed will be key to maintaining long-term compliance.

Why download the FAQ?

Our FAQ document provides straightforward answers and expert guidance to help your business prepare for this significant regulatory change.

  • Clear and Concise: Complex regulations are broken down into understandable sections.
  • Expert Insights: Get answers from e-invoicing experts to help you navigate the new regulations with confidence.
  • Actionable Guidance: Understand your responsibilities, technical requirements, and next steps for compliance.

How Basware can help

Basware delivers compliant e-invoicing solutions for sending, receiving, and archiving invoices globally— including Belgium. Our Peppol-connected platform integrates seamlessly with your AR/AP systems and goes beyond compliance with features like intelligent PDF processing, procurement solutions, and fraud prevention.

With Basware, your business is prepared to meet current and future regulatory demands with ease.

Be prepared. Stay compliant.

Download the FAQ to get clear answers, gain peace of mind, and ensure your business is ready for the deadlines.

Your Compliance Checklist:
  1. Understand the Mandate: Know what’s required and why.
  2. Check Applicability: Determine if your business is impacted.
  3. Ensure Compliance: Assess your current processes and address any gaps.
  4. Meet Technical Requirements: Align your systems with Peppol BIS and EN16931.
  5. Prepare for What’s Ahead: Stay up to date on the 2028 real-time reporting changes.

Download the FAQ now and stay ahead of the compliance curve!

With the right preparation and support, your business can transition smoothly to e-invoicing and thrive in Belgium’s evolving digital economy. 

FAQs

Why is Belgium implementing an e-invoicing mandate?

The main goal is to combat VAT fraud and reduce Belgium’s VAT gap. A standardized e-invoicing system brings more transparency, traceability, and efficiency to the tax process.

How must invoices be transferred?

Invoices must be sent using the Peppol network. Alternative formats are only acceptable if both the sender and receiver agree, and the invoice supports the creation, sending, and receiving of structured electronic data in compliance with EN16931.

Who does the mandate apply to?

It applies to suppliers and buyers that are VAT-registered in Belgium. This includes foreign entities with a Belgian VAT registration and fixed establishment.

Is an email inbox sufficient to receive e-invoices?

No. Businesses must use a Peppol connection or an agreed-upon alternative that meets EN16931 requirements.

What’s next?

Likely by 2028, real-time invoice reporting will be introduced, further digitizing the invoicing process and increasing transparency.

 

Basware does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This product compliance documentation is protected by Basware copyright, is made available for information purposes only, without any guarantee or warranty, is not binding upon Basware and can be updated by Basware at any time, without notice. This documentation is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction.

Senior e-Invoicing and Compliance Advisor Gustav Gnosspelius is a seasoned e-invoicing expert, boasting over a decade of experience in the field. With a deep understanding of best practices, Gustav excels in helping businesses optimize their e-invoicing processes and invoicing compliance. As a Principal Presales Consultant within Basware's Solution Value Consulting team, Gustav leverages his expertise to provide invaluable insights and advice, consistently aiding numerous clients in streamlining their operations. His dedication to enhancing customer experiences and driving efficiency underscores his significance within Basware and its clientele.

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