Entrepreneurs should focus on growth, not on keeping up with every new regulation.
At Rhamnous, we help businesses move forward with the right tools, insights, and partnerships, whatever the challenge.
When it comes to staying compliant with new e-invoicing rules across EU borders, our partner Billit makes it easy. Their smart invoicing platform helps you keep things simple, efficient, and ready for what’s next.
What to expect when doing business with Belgium or Germany
Starting July 1, 2030, e-invoicing will become mandatory for cross-border transactions within the EU. Each country decides its own pace for implementing the new legislation. Some are moving ahead quickly, while others are still undecided.
Among the countries leading the way are Belgium and Germany, both of which have already taken steps—or announced plans—to move toward mandatory e-invoicing.
This article zooms in on those two frontrunners, offering a glimpse of what’s coming for the rest of the EU.
As these changes unfold, it’s worth asking: what do they mean for your business—and the way you handle invoicing? They may still seem far off, but the shift toward mandatory e-invoicing is picking up speed.
What’s the situation in the Netherlands?
Since many of our readers are based in the Netherlands, here’s a quick look at where things stand there:
So far, the Netherlands has not committed to any timelines yet. While B2G (business-to-government) e-invoicing has been mandatory since 2017, there is no fixed date yet for B2B e-invoicing. However, a roadmap for e-invoicing in the Netherlands is currently in the works.
Now, let’s look at Belgium and Germany.
Belgium leads the shift to e-invoicing
Belgium has already made considerable progress in e-invoicing legislation:
- For both domestic and cross-border B2G transactions, e-invoicing has been mandatory since March 1, 2024.
- Starting January 1, 2026, e-invoicing will also become mandatory for all domestic B2B transactions.
For cross-border B2B transactions, e-invoicing isn’t currently required. Foreign companies can continue sending traditional invoices to Belgium after January 1, 2026—unless the law changes in the meantime.
In short: There is no fixed date yet for mandatory e-invoicing for cross-border B2B transactions.
Belgium goes all-in with Peppol
Belgium has opted for the Peppol system, a standardized platform for exchanging electronic invoices. This provides clear guidelines and makes it easier for companies to stay compliant. Peppol is already well-integrated in Belgium, and businesses are encouraged to embrace it.
Germany joins the e-invoicing push
Germany is phasing in e-invoicing with clear implementation deadlines. Within federal regulations, German states can establish their own specific rules. This means implementation can differ from state to state, depending on local laws and needs.
The following deadlines apply nationwide:
- For domestic and cross-border B2G transactions, e-invoicing has been mandatory since April 18, 2020.
- From January 1, 2025, companies must be able to receive electronic invoices.
There will be a transition period where paper or non-compliant e-invoices may still be used, if the recipient agrees. - From January 1, 2027, large and medium-sized companies with an annual revenue over €800,000 must send electronic invoices.
- From January 1, 2028, all companies—regardless of revenue—must send e-invoices.
As in Belgium, e-invoicing isn’t currently required for cross-border B2B transactions. Foreign companies may continue sending traditional invoices to Germany—unless legislation changes.
In short: There is no fixed date yet for mandatory e-invoicing for cross-border B2B transactions.
Germany follows Belgium in rolling out Peppol
Germany has also chosen Peppol as the secure standard for e-invoicing. A Peppol invoice makes it easier for companies to comply with regulations for both domestic and cross-border transactions. Peppol e-invoicing makes billing reliable and efficient.
Why prepare for e-invoicing now?
It might still feel far away, and you may wonder if e-invoicing is relevant right now, but preparing early is a smart move.
Advantages of e-invoicing
- Fewer errors and more time savings through automated data entry
- Faster processing and payment of invoices
- Real-time insight into your financial situation
- More efficient administration with lower costs
- Easier follow-up on unpaid invoices
- Better compliance with tax regulations
- A stronger, more credible business image
Start e-invoicing the easy way
Our partner Billit offers e-invoicing and Peppol solutions for any business, completely free.
No need to commit, just try it out. If it’s not for you, nothing is lost.
Why Billit?
- Free e-invoicing with no costs or subscriptions
- Fast and easy integration with existing accounting software
- Free invoice portal for entrepreneurs without accounting software
- Peppol-compatible for secure e-invoicing via the European network
- Recommended by the Dutch government as a trusted e-invoicing provider
Why wait till it’s mandatory when you can start benefiting from e-invoicing today?
More security, less hassle, and more focus on running your business.
Curious? Try Billit for free or get in touch to find out more!