Mandatory e-invoicing starting in Belgium in 2026: Everything you need to know
From January 1st, 2026, structured electronic invoicing will become mandatory for B2B transactions between companies registered for VAT in Belgium. This change is part of a broader European initiative to modernize tax systems, increase efficiency, and reduce errors and fraud.
At Prayon, we are preparing to comply and want to ensure that our clients and suppliers are fully informed and ready. This page provides all the key information you need.
Make sure you take the necessary steps in time: your accounting or IT service can help ensure your invoicing systems meet the new standards.
What is a structured invoice?
A structured invoice is a file that follows a standardized electronic format (not PDF or Word) that can be read by machines without human intervention.
Who is concerned?
- All companies subject to VAT in Belgium.
- This applies to transactions between Belgian entities.
How does it work?
All invoices must be sent and received via the PEPPOL network (Pan-European Public Procurement Online), which is a secure and standardized infrastructure for exchanging electronic documents that is used in Belgium.
Here’s how it works in simple terms:
- The supplier creates an invoice using your accounting or ERP software.
- That software must be connected to a certified PEPPOL Access Point (either built-in or via a provider).
- This invoice is automatically sent through the PEPPOL network in a structured XML format (not PDF).
- The customer receives this invoice directly into their system via their own PEPPOL Access Point.
This ensures secure, automated, and traceable invoicing without manual processing.
What does this mean for your relationship with Prayon?
Starting from January 1st, 2026:
- Only structured electronic invoices will be accepted.
- You must be connected to the PEPPOL network.
- Your invoice must comply with the applicable legal requirements.
- Invoices in PDF, WORD or paper format will no longer be accepted.
If not, your invoices will be automatically rejected.
We strongly recommend that you contact your accounting or IT service to ensure your systems are compliant on time.
Pour lire la version française:
Facturation électronique obligatoire à partir de 2026 en Belgique : tout ce que vous devez savoir
Om de Nederlandse versie te lezen:
Verplichte elektronische facturatie vanaf 2026 in België: alles wat u moet weten