Fiscal subject related
The Dutch tax authorities are considering implementing real-time VAT calculations and split payments as a strategy to reduce VAT fraud, particularly in the B2C sector. This initiative aims to modernize the tax system by ensuring VAT is automatically collected at the point of sale, rather than through traditional monthly or quarterly tax returns. To assess feasibility, authorities plan to consult with retailers, e-commerce businesses, and payment service providers.
The main challenge in implementing split payments is the current capability of payment providers, as their systems are not yet designed to handle the level of data required for accurate VAT determination. Additionally, the government must address how to include non-resident sellers in the system to prevent fraudsters from shifting to unregulated channels.
Split payments would work by directing the VAT portion of a transaction directly to the tax authorities at the time of purchase. This approach has already been used in specific sectors in Poland, where businesses in high-risk industries, like construction, must hold VAT funds in restricted-use bank accounts. Italy has a similar system for payments to public sector-controlled companies, while several South American countries have implemented split payments extensively for e-commerce transactions involving foreign sellers.
While the UK has been piloting a split payments system for several years, technical and regulatory hurdles have slowed its full adoption. The Netherlands will now explore whether such a system can be successfully implemented and whether it offers a viable solution for improving VAT compliance.
Other news from Netherlands
Netherlands Imposes €3,000 Cash Payment Ban for Traders to Combat Money Laundering
Netherlands
Author: Ljubica Blagojević
The Netherlands has strengthened its anti-money-laundering framework through the Anti-Money Laundering Action Plan, published in June 2019 and later incorporated into the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. Main measure of this reform is the ban on cash payments of EUR 3,000 or more for traders, designed to reduce the risks associated with anonymous cash transactions and close gaps under the previ... Read more
Accommodation VAT Rate Rises to 21%; Culture, Media, and Sports Keep 9% Rate
Netherlands
Author: Ljubica Blagojević
The planned VAT increase from 9% to 21% for accommodation, culture, media, and sports has been partially reversed. From 1 January 2026, the 9% VAT rate will remain for culture, media, and sports, while accommodation will move to the 21% standard rate. This change protects cultural and sports sectors from higher costs, while the accommodation sector is expected to face increased prices. However, in... Read more
New VAT Guidance Clarifies Rules for Self-Billing Invoices
Netherlands
Author: Ljubica Blagojević
The VAT Decree has been updated with new guidance on self-billing, where customers issue invoices instead of suppliers. While common in sectors like waste management and municipalities, the supplier remains fully liable for accuracy and compliance. Main rules require prior agreement, timely objections if invoices are rejected, and full legal compliance. In municipal practice, self-billing affects VAT reporting and must be recorded correctly to avoid costly errors. Joint invoices, such as in vehicle trade-ins, also carry specific VAT obligations, regardless of dealer practices. Organizations must stay current with updates, ensure invoices meet all requirements, and clarify whether they act as VAT-registered businesses or government bodies, as this directly impacts pricing, VAT treatment, and compliance. Read more
Subscribe to get access to the latest news, documents, webinars and educations.
Already subscriber? LoginNetherlands Saves 9% VAT for Culture; Accommodation VAT Rises to 21%
Netherlands
Author: Ljubica Blagojević
On 2 October 2025, the Dutch House of Representatives approved a bill amending the 2025 Tax Plan. The law keeps the reduced 9% VAT rate for culture, media, and sports, reversing the planned increase to 21%, while accommodation will still see its VAT rise to 21% from January 2026. To offset the revenue loss, inflation adjustments to certain income and payroll tax brackets will be limited. The measu... Read more
New document was uploaded: Handbook on Cash Registers
Netherlands
Author: ............
This brochure is for all entrepreneurs who use a cash register system or are planning to purchase one. It is also for cash register software suppliers and tax service providers. In the brochure, you can read more about: your business and the cash register system Read more
Subscribe to get access to the latest news, documents, webinars and educations.
Already subscriber? LoginNew document was uploaded: General Act on National Taxes
Netherlands
Author: ......
The Act establishes uniform rules for levying and collecting national taxes, including income tax, VAT, excise duties, and customs levies. It defines procedures for filing tax returns, issuing assessments, imposing additional assessments, and handling refunds and provisional payments Read more
Subscribe to get access to the latest news, documents, webinars and educations.
Already subscriber? LoginNew document was uploaded: Turnover Tax in the Netherlands
Netherlands
Author: ...............
This brochure is intended for non-resident entrepreneurs who are not based in the Netherlands. If you buy or sell goods or perform services in the Netherlands, you will have to deal with the Dutch rules on VAT Read more