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Should I register for VAT in the EU?
08 April 2021

If you wish to trade with the EU following the end of the Brexit transition period, you may need to register for VAT in the single market.

In this article, we will explain how and why you need to do so.

Why should I register for VAT in the EU?

If you are planning to trade in the single market, you may need to register for VAT in the EU. Doing so will help you avoid financial penalties, build your business profile within the EU, and allow you to apply for VAT refunds.

Here are just a few scenarios where VAT registration may be required:

• If your UK company is buying and selling goods in an EU country
• If your UK company is importing goods into an EU country
• If your UK company is holding goods in warehouses in EU countries for customers
• If your UK company is hosting a live conference, exhibition or training in the EU
• If your UK company is selling goods over the internet or through catalogues to EU customers

VAT and digital services

If your business supplies digital services to consumers in the EU, you must register with the VAT Mini One Stop Shop (MOSS) in any EU country, or for VAT in each country where you’re supplying digital services.

If you are registering for the VAT MOSS, you must do so by the 10th day of the month after your first sale to an EU customer.

How do I register for VAT in the EU?

The process for registering for VAT in the EU is will vary from country to country. For most registrations, you will need to have your company information and VAT details handy, and possibly proof of planned trade, such as contracts and invoices.

The submission process usually takes between two to eight weeks, so registration should be planned well in advance of any planned transactions.

You can find out how to register for VAT in each EU member state by visiting the European Commission help page.

Get expert advice today

For help and advice registering for VAT in the EU, get in touch with our team today.