New EU VAT rules – What companies need to know from 2025
In March 2025, the European Union adopted a comprehensive reform package to bring VAT into the digital age. The aim is to curb tax fraud, reduce bureaucracy and create fair competitive conditions.
1. electronic invoices become standard
In future, invoices for cross-border transactions will generally be created and reported electronically. These e-invoices follow a uniform EU standard so that they can be processed automatically and transmitted directly to the tax authorities.
2. digital reporting obligations
Companies must report their cross-border sales electronically in a timely manner. This data flows into a new central EU system (VIES), which supports the tax authorities in comparing information and combating fraud.
3. platforms in focus
Marketplaces, portals or apps that arrange short-term rentals or driving services, for example, will in future be considered “fictitious service providers” in certain cases. This means that they will have to pay VAT themselves if the actual providers are not liable to pay tax.
4. less bureaucracy for companies
The new rules are intended to avoid multiple registrations in different EU states. Companies will be able to fulfill their tax obligations centrally via the “one-stop store”.
Our conclusion
The changes bring more transparency, but also new obligations. Companies should adapt their invoicing and reporting systems at an early stage in order to be prepared in good time.